Job Talk: September's Story

I was 19 years old, sick of just a single college semester and was drinking my teenage years away in a massive depression. I was graduated but missing sports and dealing with the pain of a high school breakup. It's a wonder how I'm still able to write this… Luckily, I found a light. A family friend, the Chief at my hometown fire department, always reminded me, "We need more young guys like you! Come on when you change your mind."

Spring and Summer of 2012 I completed my Fire Academy and EMT programs. I found my new love in the fire service through just one person always leaving the door open. I was fired up and ready to work. I was lucky to hire with the Port Arthur Fire Department and work hard to be in the position I am today.

This job wasn't always easy for me. After experiencing negativity from coworkers, mental health problems and a LARGE burnout period I found myself from the young 20 year old with a chiseled body to a 30 year old 290 pound dad bod. I felt terrible. And when a heart scare landed me in the hospital I knew I had to fix myself.

Summer of 2025 I began to reclaim my love and passion for the gym and sweat equity. This was a daunting task considering that I was in the middle of a massive faculty shift in paramedic school. However, in March 2026 I'm here telling my story!

I am Trey, I found a way to fall back in love with not only my job, but myself and I will do my absolute best to help anyone who needs that extra boost to get up and reclaim their life!