STEM fields for career
- Science
Tell us what you do in your profession.
As an EMT, my job consists of helping people in need of medical help before they get to the hospital.
How did you end up in your career?
I’ve been a volunteer EMT for the past 19 years. 911 made me more aware of the need for volunteer firefighters and EMTS in our area. I joined the local fire department in 2001, went through fire academy and became a volunteer structural firefighter, which I did for 15 years. In 2003, I got my EMT certification since many of our calls are medical-related. Currently, I am an EMT only and still love it.
What advice would you give to a girl going in to 8th grade who loves STEM?
There are so many interesting and rewarding careers in STEM. Take as many STEM classes as you can in high school and research the different careers related to it. Work hard in your classes and volunteer your time with local organizations. You will meet many wonderful people on your path that will teach you different skills.
What would you do differently?
I would have tried better in math in high school. Sometimes we say we aren’t good at a subject because we aren’t getting a good grade, when in reality, we aren’t trying very hard to learn it! Ask questions and be persistent. It’s amazing ….when you try your best at something, you will get better at it and LIKE it better!
Is there anything you wish you had studied that you did not?
I wish I had taken chemistry class in high school. It was so much fun when I took it in college. I also wish I had more study skills to help me understand material. Now there are many study skill resources to help you remember information.
Other STEM positions she has had
- Science Teacher
- EMT
- Firefighter
- Lab Technician
What does _________ Job ____ mean?
EMT means Emergency Medical Technician.
What kinds of things do you do each day?
As a volunteer, I am on duty every 5 days/evenings. I check out an emergency response rig (Honda Pilot), take it home and respond to any medical emergency in my area. I also respond to fires and assist with our Rehab unit.
Education (colleges & Degrees; additional certifications):
- Masters in Biology Education
- M.S. Forestry Management
- Teaching Certification
Notable accomplishments
- Firefighter/EMT of the Year for my station
- Middle School Science Teacher of the Year (1999)
- Marine rescue squad for our fire department
Anything else you would like to share?
I think it’s very rewarding to volunteer in my community. Our fire department gives us free ongoing training in EMS (Emergency Medical Service) and keeps our skills up. I also volunteer with several service organizations that help women and kids, plus the Food Bank. When I was in college, I volunteered at the Forest Service office after classes and gained valuable skills that eventually let to a job in the summers. Each job whether volunteer or paid, can lead you to a new path. Take opportunities when you are offered them! Keep working and be productive with your life! You will make a difference!
