Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
Inspired by the bravery and service of firefighters, South Texas College student Ezequiel Miranda recently made the life-changing decision to pursue a career in public safety, juggling his job as a cashier with the rigorous path to becoming a first responder.
First building a solid foundation, Miranda earned his Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate in December 2024 and is now halfway through STC’s Fire Academy, determined to become the first firefighter in his family.
“Growing up, it’s always been my dream to become a firefighter,” said the 23-year-old. “I would often see firefighters pass by my job and ask them for advice. They all told me the same thing: become a certified EMT first.”
Born and raised in Mission, Miranda graduated from Veterans Memorial High School in 2020. After taking some time off, he spent the last three years as a cashier at HEB.
Then, following the advice of those he admired, he found a new calling and enrolled in STC’s Emergency Medical Services program, all while juggling weekend shifts at work and feeling deeply grateful for the support he’s received.
“It hasn’t been easy. The EMS program is both physically and mentally challenging, but it’s definitely the perfect place to start honing my skills,” he shared. “In just one semester, I had the opportunity to visit hospitals and ride in ambulances. I also learned how to assess patients and provide critical care. I know these additional skills will allow me to serve others more effectively. At the end of the day, it’s about putting others before yourself, that’s the true priority -helping people.”
Set to graduate from STC’s Fire Academy in May and become state-certified by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP), his ultimate goal is to be hired by the Mission Fire Department and have the opportunity to make a difference in his hometown.
“I’ve always been drawn to the physical demands of being a firefighter, where we carry gear that can weigh up to 70 pounds, along with heavy tools and equipment,” he explained. “But as an EMT student, I saw first-hand the difference it makes to help someone in need. There’s nothing more fulfilling than being able to step in and make a positive impact when people are hurting.”
From learning how to treat injuries and medical emergencies, often involving complex medical terminology, to transitioning into fire science and mastering crucial skills like ladder training and forcible entry, Miranda’s future is looking bright as he prepares for live fire exercises in the coming weeks.
“All of my instructors across the board have been incredibly helpful, even while I balanced work and school. They’re not just here to help you with your coursework, they genuinely care about you and help you reach that finish line,” he said. “I’m also grateful to all the city departments that often visit and help train us. STC is helping us build this connection and welcome us into the fire service brotherhood early in our career. We’re set up for success every step of the way.”
Miranda is excited for his future as a firefighter and plans to continue his education at STC while in the field, aiming to pursue an EMT Advanced certificate and a Paramedic Associate Degree next.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and all the career paths STC offers,” he added. “I became the first in my family to attend college, but my siblings are not far behind. My brother is in the Radiologic Technology program and my other sibling is studying Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC). Thanks to STC, the future looks bright for all of us.”
For more information on STC’s academic programs, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/
