Is college a must?

[BMC22]

Hey folks. I recently graduated from a college program(Aviation technician) but have always had a sick fascination with becomnig a FF :p . Anyways, the more I read online the more ppl mention that it's difficult to apply without being certified through a college program. I'm sure the knowledge attained is top notch but is it really necessary? Anyone have any opinions on what the best approach would be? Start getting my DZ license, etc. or wait it out till next year and apply to a program. Thanks!

[Michael13]

Most volly departments dont require college expirence, but most Full time dept's do.

[colin911]

BMC22 ... you don't have to have a college diploma directly related to firefighting. I didn't have any formal college training, just rescue courses, medical courses, and whatever else I thought would look good on a resume.
DZ licence is good to have before interviewing, as well as clean driving record and clean police check. If you've got outstanding charges, try to get them dropped from your record as soon as possible, so that it doesn't bite you in the ass when you're ready to be hired.
Life experience counts for a lot. Volunteering is a HUGE asset, not only volunteer firefighting, but coaching kids, homeless shelter, Red Cross, and that sort of thing.
But if you're young and able to, I'd suggest getting some sort of certificate from say, Durham college, Seneca, or Humber. If you've got lots of dough, then try for Fire etc. in Alberta, or Texas A&M in the States.
If you can't do those, at least try to do a rescue course or medical course every 3-5 months to show that you're interested in learning. And apply, apply, apply! Write as many tests as you can to gain some valuable experience.

Colin

[Jay74]

well said Colin, stick to that agenda and you will get hired no doubt

[infernobuster]

The best bet is to take a course once a month anything related to fire fighting. I did that for the last 4 years.
Very soon though to be even considered as an applicant to most fire departments you will have to be a graduate of a pre service program. Since i heard that, i jumped on the band wagon and last september i started taking the Durham college pre service program at nights. I have almost completed the entire course, but got hired very recently with Brampton Fire.

I hope this helps...

[BMC22]

Hey thanks guys! I'll get on the volunteering and will be looking into the schooling since I'm 'only 22. Do most of you folks have EMS related jobs prior to being hired. I know for alot of ppl it takes a couple of years so it got me wondering. Also, in Toronto where is the maintenance on these fire trucks done. I wouldn't mind getting some knowledge on them since I already have a technical diploma. Thanks again!

[scoop422]

Toronto's mechanical shop is on Toryork Road which is off Weston Road just North of Finch.

[JGallagher]

I had no previous experiance at all!! The department trained us and certified us NFPA Level 1!! It took about 9 months, but it was worth it!!