Cadet Program
Start Your Fire Service Career with the Warrenville Fire Protection District
The Warrenville Fire Protection District Cadet Program provides motivated high school students with a unique opportunity to begin preparing for a future career in the fire service. Recognized as one of the most comprehensive cadet programs in DuPage County, the program combines hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and technical education in a structured and safe learning environment.
Through partnerships with local high schools and the Technology Center of DuPage (TCD), an affiliate of the College of DuPage, students gain valuable exposure to fire service operations while serving their community.
Cadets who successfully complete the program may be eligible to become Paid-On-Call Firefighters with the District and receive sponsorship opportunities for the Fire Academy.
What is a Cadet?
A Cadet is a high school student pursuing either a technical or collegiate pathway toward a career in the fire service. Cadets participate in training, emergency response support, and department activities while developing leadership, teamwork, and public service skills.
The program is designed to help students:
- Gain real-world fire service experience
- Develop professional and technical skills
- Learn in a structured and supervised environment
- Serve and support the local community
- Prepare for future employment opportunities in emergency services
Program Requirements:
-
Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Reside within five miles of the Warrenville Fire Protection District boundaries
- Be a high school senior
Program Expectations:
Cadets are expected to:
- Respond to the station during emergency call-outs, as directed
- Attend Cadet Training on Mondays after school until 5:00 PM
- Participate in Paid-On-Call training drills on Wednesdays from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Maintain a minimum “C” grade average in all classes
- Maintain physical fitness appropriate for fire service activities
- Demonstrate professionalism, responsibility, and commitment to the program
Additional expectations and program requirements will be reviewed during the selection process.
Next Steps
Step 1 — Submit an Application
Complete and submit a Cadet Program application to the Warrenville Fire Protection District.
Applications should be submitted no later than July 31, 2026. Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Step 2 — Interview Process
Qualified applicants will be contacted to participate in an interview process.
Step 3 — Hiring Process
Offers for acceptance into the Cadet Program are contingent upon successful completion of:
-
- Background checks
- Medical examination
- Parent or guardian consent
Begin Your Journey
The Cadet Program is an excellent opportunity for students who are passionate about public service, teamwork, and pursuing a career in emergency services. If you are ready to challenge yourself and serve your community, we encourage you to apply and begin your journey with the Warrenville Fire Protection District.