Leaving behind a lucrative six-figure career, Stephen Condon made the bold move to transition into the less risky role of an EMT at the age of 61, a decision he finds personally fulfilling and believes AI could never replicate. After spending over four decades in marketing, Condon made the switch to working as a full-time emergency medical technician for the past six months with plans to continue in this field until his complete retirement in approximately four years. Despite the financial comfort of his previous marketing roles that paid him well over $200,000 at times, Condon felt a growing need for change and fulfillment that led him to explore other career opportunities within the community.

Having achieved his career goal of becoming a vice president of marketing at a public company twice by his 40s, Condon found himself at a crossroads without a clear path forward. He had experienced various challenges during his marketing journey, including navigating shifts from consumer to business-to-business and tech marketing which presented steep learning curves. Moreover, he struggled with feelings of isolation while working remotely in multiple short-term roles over the past 15 years. The decision to become an EMT represented a calculated and low-risk career shift for Condon, who opted for this path without pursuing further academic qualifications.

Condon’s transition to emergency medical service was driven by a desire for personal growth and acquiring essential life skills rather than solely focusing on job prospects. This new career direction not only offered stability beyond his retirement age but also provided intrinsic rewards that resonated with him on a deeper level. Embracing the challenges of EMT training alongside much younger peers during a ten-week course, Condon found joy in the learning process and successfully secured a position at an ambulance company after interviewing for multiple roles.

The newfound routine as an EMT has positively impacted Condon’s lifestyle, leading to healthier habits such as regular swimming sessions and morning workouts. Immersed in the dynamic environment of emergency response, he values the unpredictability and camaraderie experienced during shifts that involve responding to diverse calls. With his wife’s support covering their current expenses, Condon aims to pursue further opportunities within the healthcare sector as an emergency department technician post her retirement.

Reflecting on his journey, Condon encourages individuals feeling unfulfilled in their current roles to seek happiness and fulfillment without fear of change. Drawing from personal experience, he emphasizes the importance of setting clear objectives and taking proactive steps towards exploring new paths when faced with stagnation or dissatisfaction in one’s career trajectory.