At an age when most teenagers are just beginning to think about future careers, Hamilton High School junior Katelyn Snyder is already answering emergency calls and serving her community as a certified firefighter.
This spring, Snyder successfully earned her State of Michigan firefighter certification through the Careerline Tech Center Fire Science program while also serving with the Overisel Township Fire Department. The achievement came after months of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and a rigorous state certification process that included a 200-question written exam and 12 practical testing stations.
When Snyder received word that she had passed, the moment was overwhelming.
“I cried. I was really happy,” she said. “Then I called my mentor [2018 Hamilton High School graduate, Emily Schierbeek]. She was the first person I told.”
Snyder's interest in firefighting began after hearing encouragement from others who believed she would excel in the field. What started as a curiosity quickly turned into a passion.
“I had people who told me that it's something they thought I would be good at,” Snyder said. “So I looked into it and decided to try it out. Once I did, I knew it was for me.”
Today, Snyder serves alongside members of the Overisel Township Fire Department, including Hamilton graduates Fire Chief Josh Kooienga (Class of 2010) and EMT, Emily Schierbeek. The opportunity has allowed her to learn from experienced firefighters while gaining real-world experience before graduating high school.
“I like the thrill,” Snyder said. “I like being the calm in the chaos and being able to see everything around me and knowing that I know how to help people.”
That desire to serve others is what continues to motivate her.
“Being able to help people on their worst days and keep them calm means a lot,” she said. “It's like a family here. Everyone has helped me learn the tips and tricks and everything I need to know.”
Snyder is the first firefighter in her immediate family, making the accomplishment even more meaningful. She credits Hamilton High School counselors, Careerline Tech Center instructors, and members of the fire department for helping her navigate the pathway into emergency services.
Her journey is far from over.
Next year, Snyder plans to enroll in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program at Careerline Tech Center, where she hopes to earn her EMT Basic certification. By the time she graduates from Hamilton High School, she expects to hold certifications in Fire I, Fire II, Hazmat, and EMT.
“Having those certifications before I'm 18 will really help me on the department,” Snyder said.
For Overisel Township Fire Department leaders, Snyder's success represents the value of career and technical education programs that connect students directly with workforce opportunities.
“We're excited to see her continue to grow and see what she can do in the future,” said Chief Kooienga. “Having someone come into the department already trained and certified is a tremendous benefit—not just for us, but for local fire departments throughout the area.”
Snyder's story is a powerful example of how Hamilton students are turning their passions into careers through hands-on learning opportunities, community partnerships, and a commitment to serving others.
