California welcomes 32 new state park rangers, lifeguards at graduation ceremony

PARADISE — While the federal government cuts staffing for national parks, Governor Gavin Newsom today celebrated the addition of 32 new state park rangers and lifeguards. These dedicated individuals recently graduated from a rigorous eight month training program and now join the nation’s largest state park system.

“California congratulates the 32 new state park rangers and lifeguards who will now serve in 13 parks across the state. I thank these dedicated individuals for their valuable public service – ensuring our parks remain enjoyable and safe destinations for all Californians.”

Governor Gavin Newsom

The graduation ceremony marked the culmination of a 32-week Basic Visitor Service Training (BVST) Academy. The graduates officially received their badges in front of their family, friends, and department staff. With this milestone, they now embark on careers dedicated to serving, protecting, and educating visitors across California’s 280 state parks.

This year’s graduating BVST 50 class includes 27 rangers and five lifeguards, selected from a competitive pool of approximately 830 applicants. Their assignments span the state, from the North Coast Redwoods to the Central Valley, Santa Cruz, Orange Coast, and Inland Empire districts.

Those interested in a career with California State Parks can go to https://www.parks.ca.gov/jobs.

From the program’s start in September 2024, the cadets have shown unwavering commitment to protecting California’s natural and cultural treasures. Their journey exemplifies this year’s motto: “Water and Land, Together We Stand,” reflecting their dedication to safeguarding the state’s diverse landscapes and waterways for future generations.

“We welcome 32 new guardians of California’s most cherished places,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “These men and women have not only trained hard, but they have chosen a life of service, of standing in the gap between preservation and destruction, between safety and danger. They will be the steady hands guiding lost hikers home, the first responders in times of crisis, and the storytellers who connect us to our past. Their duty is not just a job, but a promise to protect the lands and waters that define who we are as Californians.”

The cadets’ training was extensive, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges ahead. Key areas of instruction included:

Strategic communication and de-escalation techniques

Physical arrests and defensive tactics

Search and rescue operations

Investigation techniques

Visitor services, public education and interpretation

Park resource protection and management

Firearms training and first aid

The program’s rigorous curriculum also prepared the cadets for the next stage of their journey: a 13-week Field Training Officer Program, where they will gain hands-on, on-the-job training.