Is 40 too old?

[Hydrashock]

I will be 40 in March and just got an update for Milwaukee FD that there looking to start an academy in fall. I’ve been on the list for 3-4 years and have pretty much given up on getting a call. Now I’m out of shape and don’t know what to do. I still need to take the CPAT so I started working out again. I don’t even know if I will be in the next class there just collecting the data on who still want in and if you need any further testing. I would love to be a fire fighter but how will my age factor in with the younger guys.
I have not taken any of the FF classes as I’m married with 2 kids and money is tight. The last time I called about the list I was 130 ish so we put the time and money to other things. Now with the letter my wife and I are excited. I know I may still be low on the list but there’s light in the tunnel.

[AirForceJayhawk]

Keep fighting. Get your butt back in shape and don't lose it again... always be ready. I've seen guys hired after 40 w/ great depts right next to a 20 year old. If you've done EVERYTHING possible to make yourself the best candidate, then you will make it. If you make excuses for why you haven't done everything possible, and don't believe you're the best candidate, then you probably won't make it. Don't give up and give everything to attain your goal!

[fire49]

if you really want the job go for it!!!

Sounds like you have nothing to lose

[lniles77]

I'm a volunteer, not career FF, but I was 50 when I went through the academy and my only regret is that I didn't have the opportunity to do it sooner. Getting in shape for the CPAT, and being motivated to stay in shape, has been a great fringe benefit. If you really want to be a firefighter, go for it!

[firewacker49]

My department has had quite a few recruits make it through our 23 week recruit school past the age of 45/50, it's all about your determination. This is the best job in the world, go for it.

[Hydrashock]

Well I received my e-mail for EMT training and dates for CPAT.
I didn’t know the EMT training was so long, 12weeks. I talked with the wife and it’ll be hard working and then go to training for 4 hours M-TH for the 12 weeks. But it’s what I want to do.
How I’m I going to fit in training for the CPAT? I won’t get home until 10:30pm and then up at 6:00 with the kids. I can try and fit it in the morning and I have Friday and the weekend.
But it looks good as long as I get through everything. Wish me luck.
P.S. any info on how the EMT classes are run? Are they like class room?

[fire49]

Way to go

Time will fly by when you are studying

If the children are old enough get them out and run/ exercise with them

Or if small use them as exercise equipment , put them on your back and run

Way to go 12 weeks will fly, will get the family to pull together

[fire49]

What state are you in

[skitahoe]

Your EMT class will run like any other class you have taken with the exception that there is quite a bit of "hands on" work that is done. Assuming Wisconsin teaches to NREMT you will have to pass not only written tests throughout but also a practical final. None of the practical work is hard, you just need to be able to memorize skill sheets to make sure you hit all your points come test time. There is also a written final that is taken on a computer. Take this ASAP after your class as most people I know that had issues had them with this test. If you put in the time and are a good student, you'll have no problem what so ever. Good luck!

[almostthere]

I will be 40 in March and just got an update for Milwaukee FD that there looking to start an academy in fall. I’ve been on the list for 3-4 years and have pretty much given up on getting a call. Now I’m out of shape and don’t know what to do. I still need to take the CPAT so I started working out again. I don’t even know if I will be in the next class there just collecting the data on who still want in and if you need any further testing. I would love to be a fire fighter but how will my age factor in with the younger guys.
I have not taken any of the FF classes as I’m married with 2 kids and money is tight. The last time I called about the list I was 130 ish so we put the time and money to other things. Now with the letter my wife and I are excited. I know I may still be low on the list but there’s light in the tunnel.

Age us nothing but a number. Go for it and don't give up. I would like to give a little advice if you don't mine. It is very important to stay in shape do too health reasons; especially if you have a family.

[Hydrashock]

Milwaukee, WI.
I did a 2yr degree in 1 1/2 years and worked full time. But that was 10 years ago. Now I have a 8yr old and 5yr old. I do have have a great wife that works also and Grandma (My mom) said she'll help out too.
I would like to hear or talk to anyone in the Milwaukee FD though.

[Water-Hammer]

They have hired 50 y/o before. I'm also from milwaukee area, wish I could have made the cut. I have a dept out of state that's looking good though. I also have kids, 4 of them. I'm 42, in pretty good shape. If its what you really want, you will MAKE it work. This will be the last class run off that list from what u have heard.