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The Edmonton Fire Cadets program is for high school students aged 14-18 who are interested in becoming firefighters.
Join us to learn about the Edmonton Fire Cadet program's application process and details, and speak with current and former cadets and the EFRS coordinator.
Date: March 18, 2026
Time: 5-9pm
Address: Edmonton Fire Academy, 10420 157 NW, Edmonton
The Fire Cadet program’s mission is to enable cadets to better understand the firefighting career through an experience that balances both classroom and hands-on learning.
Each cadet will learn mental and physical wellness, a sense of self-responsibility, personal growth, leadership, teamwork, and fire prevention skills.
Edmonton’s Fire Cadets take part in a number of learning opportunities, including:
Through career internships and work experience, fire cadets can also earn high school credits for their involvement in the program.
Sponsored by ATCO in 2022, Fire Cadets from Penhold, Didsbury, Edmonton, and Calgary spent the day at the Calgary Fire Department Training Centre building relationships and developing their skills at the first Futures on Fire event.
Students will be asked to complete a physical test after their respective interviews.
The Fire Cadet physical is designed for applicants to demonstrate that they have the physical capabilities to keep themselves safe and lessen the chance of injury during Fire Cadet activities.
It is a PASS/FAIL test.
You will not be scored against the other applicants. It is only used to see if you can complete the tasks or not. Applicants are expected to provide their own workout clothing and athletic footwear. You will NOT be wearing bunker gear or SCBA.
The test will involve a 10-minute treadmill test, followed by a 10-minute rest period. Then 4 physical tests done in succession, with a 2-minute rest period between each test.
Physical Testing Location:
EFRS Training Academy (10420-157 Street Edmonton)
Please email firecadets@edmonton.ca if you have any questions or are looking for suggestions/tips on preparing for the physical tests.
The test is to be performed in proper fitness attire and footwear.
No Bunker gear or SCBA.
The applicants complete the test to the best of their ability.
Max Treadmill time of 10 minutes + 3 minute cool down
Once completed, there will be a 10-minute recovery time, before the strength and endurance tests begin.
Applicants must perform the required reps for the push-ups, pull-ups and hold of the side plank for the entire test duration.
Reasons to terminate the strength and endurance tests:
Joint or muscle pain
Recovery: 2 minutes in between, push/pull and each side plank
Push-ups
Inverted Row (Horizontal Pull-up)
Side Planks
Farmers Carry
Students are expected to make the Edmonton Fire Cadet program a priority. Current and former Cadets liken it to having an extra course in high school, with about 2 hours per week for time commitment (more during exam times).
The course runs for a total of 10 months: beginning in September and ending in June. The program is aligned with Alberta Education curriculum, following a two-semester course (2 levels) format.
Edmonton firefighters take great pride in being ambassadors in our communities while helping others in need. That's why our cadets are expected to complete 30 hours of community service, 15 hours per semester, to complete the program.
Many opportunities are offered to help complete this requirement.
Through sponsorship with ATCO, the cost to students is minimal.
Kaitlyn Hafner, Cadet Class 10
I’ve always known I wanted a career that helps people but never knew where to start. The Edmonton Fire Cadet Program was the perfect solution. I found it difficult to voice my thoughts and opinions prior to the program. I felt like I was the only female, even person, that wanted a First Responder Career. But becoming a Fire Cadet opened my eyes and opened me to so many opportunities. Class 10 was full of individuals who shared similar ideals of wanting to help people. Many volunteers, firefighters, community leaders and dedicated Captains all gave time to teach us and demonstrate what being a real firefighter means.
This program has aided many aspiring teenagers to grow into more confident, brave individuals. The phrase “Be comfortable, being uncomfortable” motivated us all to push ourselves and will inspire many more to come.
Jake Revels Green, Cadet Class 8
I have always avoided group activities, so I was nervously excited when I was accepted into the Fire Cadet Program.
Being part of a team, surrounded by amazing leaders, weekly firefighting activities and learning life skills, helped me become a more confident person.
I am so happy I went forward with my application and did not let my insecurities get in the way of what was one of the best experiences of my life so far.
Please refer to the
before reaching out to the Fire Cadet Coordinator.
Thank you.
| firecadets@edmonton.ca | |
| Phone | 780-496-8840 |
