I'm trying to enter into the field of firefighting. Unfortunately,
I've found most departments require a great deal of training before
they will hire you, such as EMT and Paramedic training, and Fire
Academy. Are there any firefighting jobs or departments in South
Florida, besides voluntering, where I can become employed before
completing or starting all the training.

Far from being the "glamorous" job covered in "glory" that it may
appear to be based on all the publicity since 9/11, Firefighting is an
extremely difficult and complicated job where the slightest mistake by
a firefighter may cost lives -- his or her own, those of fellow
firefighters, and those of innocent civilians. It would be terribly
dangerous, as well as unethical, to turn a green rube loose on the
site of a serious fire. This is why the training is extensive and
REQUIRED. There is no place for "shortcuts" in this field.

If you are interested in being heroic without undergoing much
additional training, I recommend that you volunteer as a mentor/tutor
in a literacy training program.

If you are serious about being a firefighter, I am sure that you will
recognize the dire importance of the training and follow the path that
is prescribed.

Best Wishes,

ace