Explorer Program
Are you a high-school student interested in a career in Firefighting and/or EMS?
Join the Oshkosh Fire Department Explorer Post 9424!
Hands-On Training
The main goal of Exploring is to provide young adults with an experience that closely replicates what the job of being a firefighter and a paramedic is like. Explorers meet every other Wednesday throughout the school year from October until June. They are issued firefighting gear, and get regular practice using firefighting tools and techniques. From stretching hoselines to using a defibrillator, explorers receive valuable training.
Skills for Life
Throughout their program, explorers are led by an experienced group of Oshkosh Fire Department firefighter/paramedics. The adult leaders are there to provide the best training possible, but also to provide career, academic, and life advice. Many of our adult leaders were once explorers too. While not every explorer chooses a career in Fire/EMS, the ones that do are well prepared for their next step after graduating high school. Those that choose other careers still gain valuable experience that will stick with them for the rest of their lives.
Who are the explorers?
The Oshkosh Fire Department Explorers are young men and women between the ages of 14 and 18 who are interested in careers in the fire service.
What do the explorers do?
The explorer program runs the length of the school year from October to June and meets every other Wednesday throughout the school year. Training topics regularly include: Hands on firefighting and EMS training. Including hose deployment and movement, search and rescue, ladders, ice/water rescue, ARFF, vehicle extrication, technical rescue and hazardous materials response.
Where do explorers go after the program?
Not all explorers continue down the path of Fire and EMS, but those that do find they have been well prepared for the next level. Many go on to enroll in fire and EMS programs at a Technical College to further their education and preparation. High schoolers can begin their college coursework early, so many explorers graduate high school already certified as firefighters and/or EMTs.
Interested in joining?
Requirements: Any high school student between the ages of 14 and 18 years old, and enrolled in school at the high school level or higher. Applicant must display good conduct at all times and be of high moral character.
Exploring is a Scouts of America affiliated program. Registration costs $75 annually. Please notify the Advisor or Executive Director if there is a financial hardship.