Explorer Post
The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office is a proud sponsor of Law Enforcement Explorer Program. This program gives young men and women a hands-on chance to determine if they want to pursue a career in law enforcement. It also builds trust and cooperation between youth and the Sheriff's Office.
The post is headed by 2 advisors, who also are sworn officers. The advisors also have associate advisors (sworn officers as well) assisting them. These officers train and educate Explorers in a number of law enforcement subjects as well as in the department operations. The advisors and associate advisors, volunteer the time they spend with the program.
The department's Explorers are young adults, both male and female, ages 16-20. This is a voluntary program that does require Explorer's commitment to bettering themselves through their studies.
The Explorer Program gives young adults the chance to:
Explorers not only represent themselves but they represent the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office and our community as well. To become an Explorer, young people must meet the following standards:
If you meet the requirements for membership and you'd like more information or would like to become an Explorer, you can get an application request from the High School Resource Officers. You can also request information by submitting our online form. Explorer meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month.
Learning for Life
The post is headed by 2 advisors, who also are sworn officers. The advisors also have associate advisors (sworn officers as well) assisting them. These officers train and educate Explorers in a number of law enforcement subjects as well as in the department operations. The advisors and associate advisors, volunteer the time they spend with the program.
The department's Explorers are young adults, both male and female, ages 16-20. This is a voluntary program that does require Explorer's commitment to bettering themselves through their studies.
Program Offerings
The Explorer Program gives young adults the chance to:
- Learn the duties and procedures of Iredell County Sheriff’s Office officers
This includes being taught how to conduct a car stop, search a building, handcuff suspects, patrol activities, firearms training, traffic law, etc. - Understand how different parts of the Sheriff’s Office function together
To do this, Explorers are taught how the Iredell County and jail operates and how K-9, SERT, Communications, etc., are used in conjunction with patrol. This normally includes giving Explorers a chance to tour various facilities. - Develop leadership skills, self-confidence, maturity and discipline
Explorers are given the chance to advance in rank by testing for the position of sergeant, lieutenant and captain. With each rank attained, the Explorers are challenged by being put in a leadership role within the program. Explorers also must maintain a uniform and pass inspection by their advisors. - Participate in community activities
As part of their membership requirements, Explorers are called upon by departments and community organizations to help facilitate events and gatherings such as National Night Out, and other social events.
What it Takes
Explorers not only represent themselves but they represent the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office and our community as well. To become an Explorer, young people must meet the following standards:
- Currently attending high school, graduated or have obtained a GED
- Be of good moral habits with no arrest or conviction records for serious offenses, or multiple minor offenses. (Must be willing to submit to a complete background check.)
- If a minor, must have parental approval, which includes signatures by the applicant and his/her parents or guardians on a general liability release and medical waiver forms
- Be of good mental and physical health
- Must have or maintain a "C" average or above in school
- Attend 4 consecutive probationary meetings, and upon conclusion of the fourth meeting, submit to an oral board given by members of the Explorer Post
Get Involved
If you meet the requirements for membership and you'd like more information or would like to become an Explorer, you can get an application request from the High School Resource Officers. You can also request information by submitting our online form. Explorer meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month.