Q: Hello, would you like to introduce yourself?

A: Hello, my name is Tyler, and I am a veteran of the Air Force and a firefighter. Thank you!

Q: Why don’t you tell us a little bit about being a veteran?

A: Being a veteran and a firefighter, I feel the pride in having contributed to a meaning larger than oneself. I also feel a sense of connection to a broader community of veterans.

Q: What made you want to become a firefighter?

A: When I was in a high school, I was getting in trouble like many young teens do, and my mom decided to put me in a program for teenagers on learning firefighting, which is called the Explorer Scouts. Though I went to the first meeting kicking and screaming because my mom made me go, I quickly realized it was a career path I wanted to pursue.

Q: So, what advice would you give to anyone else interested in becoming a firefighter? What’s the job like?

A: If anybody wants to work in public service, I would say: stay out of trouble, always be willing to learn, and advance your learning in EMS and paramedic skills. The job is very rewarding with the service that you get to provide, the camaraderie with the people you work with and being able to help people on their worst days.

Q: And finally, have you ever saved a cat from a tree?

A: I have, not as a firefighter, but I have. It was a family cat that ran up a tree, and yes, I had to save it.

Thank you for your time!