FNG... but am I too old?

Badgers

Forum Ride Along
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Hey all

Entering into EMT program in Vancouver, WA (once the covid madness subsides) and very much looking forward to it.

My one nagging doubt is ... am I too old to make a career change into EMS? Ill be 39 by the time I am certified.


People only try to talk me out of it based on low pay... which isnt an issue really as Ive never made more than $17/hr in my life and am in a two income household, so raking in $30k a year to start isnt really a deal breaker.

Planning on getting certified and volunteering with a local service while keeping my 'day job' ... if it becomes something that I really do enjoy Ill seek FT employment and probably pursue Paramedic training... which if I do, Ill probably be 41-42 years old upon completion of that program.


Am I nuts?
How are 'new guys' in their 40s generally viewed/accepted?


Thanks!
 

akflightmedic

Forum Deputy Chief
3,891
2,564
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You are not too old. Many threads on this topic...search.

But no...you are NOT too old. Get amongst it.
 

jgmedic

Fire Truck Driver
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Had a great partner who became an EMT at over 40, then a medic and now is a Sup. His kid is a medic too at that same service.
 

planetmike

Forum Lieutenant
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As long as you don't mind always learning new stuff in this new career, you won't be too old.

I entered EMS at 45. Still enjoying it. Mostly.
 

Jn1232th

Forum Captain
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I’m 25 years old, and in my medic class was pretty much one of the youngest students. One person was in the 50’s-late 50’s! Never to old to do something new.
 
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