Meet Firefighter/EMT Corbin Luling

Where are you stationed? 
I am currently stationed at Station 8 (Lien Road) on the 'A' shift.  

What did you do before working for MFD? 
Before joining MFD, I served as a full-time firefighter for the City of New Berlin Fire Department for several months. I also worked part-time for the City of Verona Fire Department after completing my two-year internship with them.  

Where did you grow up? 
I grew up in Sun Prairie, WI.  

What sparked your passion for the fire service and EMS?  
My passion for the fire service was sparked by growing up with my dad, who worked in the fire service. His dedication to the service inspired me to pursue my own interest in the field, leading me to attend the NextGen Responders Academy at Madison Area Technical College during my senior year of high school.  

How did your previous education or work experience help prepare you for this role?  
Right out of high school, I completed a two-year internship with the Verona Fire Department, which supported me in earning my Associate Degree in Fire Science. The internship allowed me to live and work at the station on a full-time firefighter schedule for two years and was great foundational experience for the fire service. 

Once I finished my internship, I worked full-time for the New Berlin Fire Department where I learned more about the culture of working at a full-time fire department. At New Berlin, I was able to work on a fire engine and ambulance during the same shift which I think was a unique experience that helped me to grow as a professional firefighter and EMS provider.  

Why did you choose Madison Fire Department?  
My dad has been a firefighter with the City of Madison for most of my life, so I grew up surrounded by the fire service. Seeing firsthand the dedication and teamwork, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.  

What are you most excited about as you transition from recruit to firefighter/EMT?  
I am most excited about continuing to grow and improve with every shift as I transition from recruit to Firefighter/EMT. I look forward to building on the skills and knowledge I have developed throughout my training and becoming a more dependable member of the department. Most importantly, I am excited to be able to serve my community.  

What is your earliest memory with a firefighter/EMT or paramedic, and how did it influence your desire to pursue this career?  
My earliest memory of the fire service is from back when my dad was a volunteer firefighter for Sun Prairie. I vividly remember sitting in the watch office of Sun Prairie Station #2 eating from a large tub of pretzels. Even at that age, the strong sense of camaraderie among the crew left a lasting impression on me.