What advice do you have for a prior-service Marine going into the Air Force as a 3E7X1 Fire protection?

Expect a different life style. Depending on where you get assigned youll have the chance to work with civilians, most of which are prior service. Speak to them and get an idea as to what is needed and what to do. Some of the bases ive seen junior nco’s are a rare commodity, so if tou are a self motivated individual, you will set the bar. As far as call volume, well most and i do say most AF bases are running on smells and bells, actual fire calls have dropped quite a bit. There are those bases that do mutual aid and you will see some stuff there but dont expect to be running like FDNY, lots of training, hopefully hands on and periods of lull. Been doing this career for 30 years now, wouldnt have changed if i knew then what i know now. Its one of the best careers out there. Enjoy it learn as much as you can and get involved. Inside and out of the department. Make your assignment the best it can be, even if its Why Not Minot (lol) Im there now and it isnt as bad as rumors have it. Ask questions, het in the forums on facebook and here. Plenty of old farts to help you out.

Try not to eat crayons in the office... The Air Force guys and gals will look at you funny. That isn't a common practice among those sorts.

It will be a huge change of pace depending on your prior afsc. Fire in the Air Force is a great job, but be prepared to learn a lot fast. You will start by learning basic fire fighting in San angelo texas. Then learn to drive and operate trucks. Then move on to instructor, inspector and officer. Just stay in shape and study.