Welcome to the OCVFC Cadet Program

Are you ready to challenge yourself, serve your community, and become part of a legacy of leadership and excellence? The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Cadet Program is an extraordinary opportunity for young individuals aged 14-18 to explore their passion for firefighting, emergency services, and leadership.

Our program has a rich history of shaping the future leaders of the fire service and beyond, instilling core values of service, leadership, excellence, teamwork, and innovation. This isn’t just training; it’s a transformative experience that sets cadets on the path to success.

Why Join the OCVFC Cadet Program?

For Potential Cadets

• Get in on the Action: Participate in live training exercises, respond to real-world incidents, and ride on fire apparatus.

• Learn Lifelong Skills: Gain certifications in CPR, first aid, and firefighting basics while developing leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

• Create Lifelong Friendships: Build camaraderie with peers who share your passion for helping others.

• Set Yourself Apart: Stand out on college applications and job resumes with unparalleled experience and community service hours.

For Parents

• Structured Environment: Your teen will learn and grow under the supervision of experienced instructors in a safe, supportive setting.

• Career and Life Preparation: Cadets gain skills that prepare them for any path, whether they pursue firefighting or another profession.

• Positive Impact: Watch your child grow into a responsible, resilient leader while contributing to the community.

Program Highlights

• Peer Leadership: The cadet program is run by cadets for cadets, offering opportunities to hold administrative and operational leadership roles.

• Robust Training: Cadets receive hands-on experience in drills, controlled burns, apparatus operation, and emergency response.

• Business Acumen: Regular business meetings follow Robert’s Rules of Order, teaching cadets professionalism and organizational skills.

• Certifications: Opportunities to earn CPR, first aid, EMT, and Firefighter I and II certifications, in addition to many other advanced certifications through the University of Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI).

• Community Engagement: Participate in parades, public safety education, and other community outreach initiatives.

• Advancement Opportunities: Promotions based on merit and performance prepare cadets for leadership roles in the fire service or other careers.

Core Values

Service. Leadership. Excellence. Teamwork. Innovation.

These five values guide everything we do. Our cadets are driven by a deep sense of duty, striving to serve their community, lead with integrity, and achieve excellence in every endeavor.

How to Join

Are you ready to take the first step toward an extraordinary journey? Here’s how you can get started:

• Eligibility: Ages 14-18 and live in the Ocean City area.

• How to Apply: Fill out an application online or visit us at Fire Headquarters.

• Contact Us for More Information: Call 410-289-4346 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page.

Join the Legacy

Whether you’re a young individual ready to lead or a parent looking to give your teen a transformative experience, the OCVFC Cadet Program is the place to start.

FAQs

How often do cadets meet?

Cadets meet weekly during the school year for drills and business meetings. There are also special events throughout the year.

What kind of activities can I expect?

Training exercises, community events, and leadership activities, as well as team-building experiences and standby crews.

Do I have to become a firefighter after the program?

Not at all! The skills you’ll gain are transferable to any career or path you choose.

Start Your Journey Today

At the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Cadet Program, you’ll do more than learn—you’ll lead, serve, and excel. Join us, and become part of a legacy of service and leadership that transforms lives and shapes the future.

Need More Info?

Fill out the form at the bottom of this page. Information can also be obtained by calling Fire Headquarters at (410) 289-4346 and asking for one of our instructors.

"Where Service Meets Leadership, and Legacy is Built"