u/Valuable-Plastic8954

Hey everyone, I’m from the Belmont/Rockford area and currently work at Corewell Health as an NT. I’m planning on starting EMT classes soon and my long term goal is to become a firefighter.
I’ve been looking into POC departments around Belmont, Rockford, Algoma, and Plainfield, but I’m still trying to understand the best route into the fire service.
For anyone local in fire/EMS:
Is EMT school the right first step?

Are departments around here open to recruits still in EMT school?

Do any local departments help sponsor Firefighter I & II training?

I’m not trying to rush into anything, just looking for the smartest path forward and figured I’d ask people with experience in the area. Thanks.