AboutJohn Grussing Expertise I am able to answer questions related to fire service careers, fire suppression tactics, technical rescue procedures, emergency medical services, as well as fire department management and supervision questions.
Experience I am a 19 year veteran of the Normal, IL. fire department and currently hold the rank of Captain. I am also a past member of the MABAS Div. 41 Technical Rescue Team.
Organizations Golden Key Honor Society
International Association of Firefighters
McLean County EMS communications committee
Publications Fire Engineering Magazine (Roundtable Discussions)
Education/Credentials I hold an Associates degree in Fire Science from Illinois Central College as well as a bachelor of liberal arts degree from Western Illinois University. My emphasis of study was fire and disaster response planning. In addition, I hold numerous certifications in firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, and Fire Department Administration from the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
Expert: John Grussing Date: 6/4/2008 Subject: Becoming a Firefighter
Question Mr. Grussing,
I'm interested in becoming a Firefighter in Las Vegas,NV. They only hire about every two years, and the job space seems to be very limited. I have a four year degree in Business Finance, but no Firefighter experience. I'm 27, too old for the explorer program. Is there anything you would suggest in order to give me an advantage when the next hiring date comes around? EMT? Volunteer? or any thing at all I'm willing to do just about anything.
Answer Matt,
First of all, realize that you may not get hired at Las Vegas. To become a firefighter you may need to relocate. To answer your question, I would advise you to check your local junior colleges and enroll in EMT or paramedic programs. Attaining your paramedic certification will take about 2 years but most departments award extra points during testing for it. The only way to get firefighter certification is to join a volunteer department. This will also get you some exposure to the fire service which will only help you during testing. Also, talk to people who have tested for Las Vegas and were recently hired; they will be able to give you pointers on passing the test successfully. Hope this helped... good luck!
