At 1904 Cadets, we don’t just teach students how to save lives through high-quality education—we help change lives. Cap Swift
Mission Statement
1904 Cadets was established to prepare youth in our communities for careers in Emergency Medical Services and the Fire Service. Through leadership development, culturally responsive mentorship, and hands-on training aligned with National Registry EMT (NREMT) and California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I standards, students gain the skills, confidence, and professional foundation needed to enter the fire and EMS professions while strengthening safer, stronger communities throughout San Diego.
1904 Cadets K–12, Fire & Emergency Services Program Overview
The 1904 Cadets program is a K–post-secondary, career-connected workforce development pathway 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 post-secondary, creating a seamless pipeline into public safety careers while strengthening communities across San Diego.
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 serve as a community helper.
Fire Up Your Future – A middle school program that builds foundational knowledge in fire and EMS, introduces real-world tools and equipment, and develops leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.
Fire & EMS Cadets (High School) – A comprehensive training program aligned to California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I and National Registry EMT (NREMT) standards. Students earn industry-recognized certifications including CPR/AED, First Aid, and BLS for Healthcare Providers while participating in hands-on simulations and field-based training led by industry professionals.
1904 Workforce Bridge Program (Post-Secondary) – A continuation pathway that supports graduates as they transition into college, certification programs, and the workforce. This includes mentorship, career guidance, tuition support, industry connections, and continued skill development to ensure long-term success in fire and EMS careers.
With strong partnerships across fire departments, EMS agencies, educational institutions, and workforce organizations, 1904 Cadets equips students with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience needed to enter and excel in the field of fire and emergency services.
From elementary through post-secondary, 1904 Cadets is more than a program - it is a pipeline of purpose, creating a safer, stronger San Diego by developing the next generation of first responders.