Ranking up for First Responders is a different process than in the Navy Program.  Prospective candidates must apply and pass an initial screening. The applications are scenario-based and advisers look for character, morality and leadership ability. From there, approved candidates go before an oral board made up of First Responders and Community Leaders. They are ranked based on their responses to a series of defining questions regarding their personal characteristics, military bearing,  strength of leadership qualities, and most importantly, their ethics.  Academic standing, Disciplinary Actions, and Military Bearing are also taken into account before a cadet is promoted.  If a cadet is suspended, they will be demoted or lose rank entirely. This is a fairly new process for BMA and we are looking forward to improving it each year.