San Bernardino County showcased the Sheriff's Explorer Program as a hands-on pathway for teens interested in law enforcement careers.

An Explorer Program presenter said the program enrolls young people ages 14 to 20 and teaches fundamentals of being a deputy or law enforcement officer. "And also when they age out at 20, we help them get hired if they, desire career in law enforcement," a program speaker said. The episode highlighted ride-alongs, competitions and advisor mentorship as central activities.

An unnamed advisor said they have been advising for about six months and described progress in explorers' public engagement and professionalism. Participants said ride-alongs are a favorite component and that the program influenced some to consider law enforcement careers who otherwise might not have opted in.

Host Martha Guzman Hurtado said membership is open to young men and women 14 to 20 and that applications are available in the volunteer section of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department website.

Next steps: listeners were directed to the sheriff's volunteer pages for application details; no application deadlines or selection criteria were specified in this episode.