Heads up for those in Gilbert looking to join the local Fire & Rescue team: the department's cadet program is now taking applications. Starting August 16, Gilbert Fire & Rescue’s Cadet Program is opening its doors to applicants willing to walk into the life of a firefighter. The program promises extensive mentorship and skill development, providing participants with hands-on training and a glimpse into the fire service culture.

Now, to get into the nuts and bolts of eligibility for interested parties, you must be at least 18 years old and have your High School diploma or GED in hand. Detailed requirements can be viewed on their official website. Once in, cadets will not just carry the weight of the title but engage in rigorous physical training and skill acquisition—from mastering hose management to practicing vehicle extrication techniques.

For those wondering where the action happens, it's located at the Gilbert Public Safety Training Facility, taking up a 50-acre plot that's shared with police—these folks aren't playing around when it comes to preparing their cadets. The design of this establishment is all about meeting today's demands and anticipating the needs of tomorrow when it comes to public safety measures.

If this has sparked your interest, the path to more information is just a click away. You can learn all about what it takes and what it offers by visiting the Gilbert Fire & Rescue’s cadet program page. According to the news release published by the Town of Gilbert on August 8th, this is more than a program—it's a gateway to building meaningful relationships with sworn firefighters and becoming versed in essential firefighting skills.