Mission Statement
1904 Cadets were established to prepare youth in our communities for careers in Emergency Medical Response and
the Fire Service. Through leadership development and culturally responsive mentorship, students receive hands-on training aligned with National Registry EMT (NREMT) Standards and the California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I Standards—the foundational requirements for entering the fire and EMS professions.
1904 Cadets K–12, Fire & Emergency Services Program Overview
The 1904 Cadets program is a K–12, career-connected education initiative designed to prepare students for dynamic and rewarding careers in fire and emergency services. Built on a foundation of hands-on training, leadership development, and culturally responsive mentorship, the program supports students from elementary school through high school, offering a seamless pathway into public safety careers.
The 1904 Cadets pathway includes:
Lil Heroes – A fun and engaging early exposure program for elementary students that introduces the basics of fire safety, first aid, teamwork, and what it means to be a community hero.
Fire Up Your Future – A middle school program that builds foundational knowledge in fire and EMS, introduces real-world tools and gear, and emphasizes leadership, communication, and critical thinking.
Fire/EMS Cadets (High School) – A robust training program that prepares students to meet the California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I and National Registry EMT (NREMT) standards. Students earn certifications in CPR/AED, First Aid, and BLS for Healthcare Providers, while participating in hands-on simulations and field-based training scenarios led by industry professionals.
With strong partnerships across fire departments, EMS agencies, educational institutions, and workforce organizations, the 1904 Cadets program empowers young people with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to enter and excel in the field of fire and emergency services.
From elementary to high school, 1904 Cadets is more than a program—it's a pipeline of purpose, shaping the next generation of first responders one student at a time.