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Milwaukee Fire Department Cadet Program works to recruit more women

Posted at 6:22 PM, Nov 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-13 19:22:50-05

MILWAUKEE — Creating a better life for her family - that's the reason why Sakura Xiong joined the Milwaukee Fire Department Cadet Program.

“I just want to have a good successful future,” said Sakura.

She has been in the program for more than a year, and said it has its changes, but every day she feeling inspired and empowered to be a part a male-dominated field.

“I know I can provide for my family. I wouldn't have to worry about finding a job in the future, when this is set for me,” said Sakura.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 4% of career firefighters nationwide are female and according to the Milwaukee Fire department, 5% of its department are women. In the cadet program, about 1/3 of the class size is female.

The cadet program is a 2-year-paid apprenticeship program for young adults ages 17-19 years-old.

The program is accepting applications for 2021 if you would like to learn more click here.

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