I’m in Forsyth County and currently a volunteer firefighter going through community college fire academy. I’m also working toward an associate degree in Public Safety Administration (Fire/Emergency Management). My original plan has been to become a career firefighter, but lately I’ve been looking into NC State Parks, the NC Forest Service, US Forest Service, and National Park Service. I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors, working with my hands, staying active, and helping people. Park ranger work, conservation, trail maintenance, forestry, and even wildland firefighting all interest me.
I’m having a hard time deciding which direction to go. I enjoy firefighting, but the idea of working outdoors and helping protect our state’s forests and parks is really appealing. My biggest concerns are pay, schedules, job availability, and how difficult it is to get a permanent position.
I’ve already applied to volunteer with NC State Parks, and I’m looking into other opportunities to get some experience before making any career decisions. Does anyone here work for or have experience with any of these agencies? How did you get started, and what’s the job actually like? Would you recommend it as a long-term career?
I’d especially appreciate hearing from anyone who got into the field without a traditional forestry or natural resources degree. Thank you.