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10 Steps to Becoming a Firefighter - For Military Service Members

Candidates who have served our country in the Armed Forces have a huge advantage over those who have not. It is generally believed that while military veterans may not have as many certificates and fire science units as the other candidates (they were busy serving our country), they offer so much more. The personal growth and professional experience a military service member experiences is second to none. The fire service is a para-military organization and in being so, words like code, honor, commitment and integrity are as important to the fire service as they are to the military.

FireLink and Military.com have joined forces to provide our members – both active duty and veterans alike – with this exclusive, comprehensive guide to prepare you for a transition from your military background to your new and exciting career as a civilian firefighter.

• Step 1: Choosing the Right Fire & Rescue Path

• Step 2: Transition Made Easy – Timeline & Checklist

• Step 3: GI Bill, Education, & Certifications

• Step 4: Picking a Department

• Step 5: The Application Process

• Step 6: CPAT & Written Exams

• Step 7: Background Check

• Step 8: Fitness

• Step 9: Things You Can Do Today

• Step 10: Common Hurdles Faced by Veterans

Introduction by Battalion Chief Paul Lepore. To read his full article on “Military Experience,” click here.

FireLink would like to extend a special thanks to member k5kowboy for his expertise and time in the development of this guide.

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