Baker City Launches Cadet Program to Train Young First Responders

Baker City Fire Chief Michael Carlson announced on November 23 that the Baker City Fire Department will open a cadet program for local youth ages 14 to 19. The program was introduced at a recent career conference that attracted more than 75 students, and a parent and cadet meeting had been scheduled for November 18 as part of the rollout. Applications for the initial cohort are due December 1.

Recruit training will run four to six weeks on weekends starting in early January. Program design separates younger and older participants, with 14 and 15 year olds receiving classroom instruction while cadets 16 and older may observe emergency calls, perform assigned safe tasks at incidents and work through a task book toward firefighter certification and EMT related credentials. Organizers also built in community service elements and recognition awards including a helmet and a custom radio strap, and the program will offer leadership roles for cadets within the group.

For Baker County residents the program creates a direct pathway from school to public safety work. By training teenagers locally, the department intends to strengthen the pipeline of qualified candidates for volunteer and paid positions, reduce onboarding time for new recruits and increase community familiarity with emergency services. Participation also gives young people tangible credentials and experience that can improve employment prospects or entry into regional fire academies and EMS programs.

The program’s weekend schedule and staged responsibilities aim to balance training with school commitments, which could help retain students who might otherwise be unable to take part in weekday programs. With more than 75 students already engaged at the initial presentation, department leaders will monitor interest and capacity as applications are processed through December.

Full application and contact information were included in the department announcement posted on FireRescue1. Baker City officials say the cadet program is part of a longer term effort to build a locally trained generation of first responders and to deepen ties between emergency services and the community.