Asheville Fire Department Opens Explorer Program to Local Youth
Motivated teens are invited to apply for the Explorer Post 77 program.
Designed for youth who want more than a glimpse of public‑service work, the program offers hands‑on training, mentorship, and a chance to learn alongside active firefighters who guide participants through real‑world skills and challenges.
Applications are now being accepted, and the department encourages early submissions—only 20 spots are available. The program provides “hands-on experience in firefighting, ladder work, equipment handling, and first aid,” giving teens a grounded introduction to the physical and technical demands of the fire service.
Explorer Post 77 is structured to help young people grow not in skill and in confidence. Participants ages 14 to 18 work directly with firefighters who model teamwork, discipline, and calmness under pressure. The department frames the program as a pathway for youth who may one day pursue fire service careers, offering regular drills, scenario‑based learning, and leadership development.
The Explorer team also competes each year in the regional Boy Scouts of America Winterfest, where Asheville cadets test their speed and coordination in rapid‑dress challenges and high‑rise deployment drills. These events give teens a chance to measure their progress, build camaraderie, and represent Asheville among other regional posts.
The Explorer Program’s goals extend beyond technical training. According to the department, the initiative aims to “inspire and prepare the next generation of fire service professionals,” grounding young people in public service values while giving them a supportive community of mentors.
The program is open to youth ages 14 to 21, with activities that include training sessions, competitions, and structured mentorship. For many participants, it becomes a formative experience, one that blends physical challenge with civic purpose.
How to Apply
To apply for the program, go to www.exploring.org. Applications should be submitted by August 25, 2026. Completed forms can be emailed to Senior Firefighter William Burnette at [email protected].
