Cadet Programs

While there are many youth-oriented programs in America today, CAP's cadet program is unique in that it uses aviation as a cornerstone. Thousands of young people from 12 years through age 21 are introduced to aviation through CAP's cadet program.  The program allows young people to progress at their own pace through a 16-step program including aerospace education, leadership training, physical fitness, and moral leadership.  Cadets compete for academic scholarships to further their studies in fields such as engineering, science, aircraft mechanics, aerospace medicine, meteorology, as well as many others. Those cadets who earn cadet officer status may enter the Air Force as an E3 (Airman First Class) rather than an E1 (Airman Basic). 

Whatever your interests-survival training, flight training, photography, astronomy there's a place for you in CAP's cadet program.  Each year, cadets have the opportunity to participate in special activities at the local, state, regional or national level.  Many cadets will have the opportunity to solo fly an airplane for the first time through a flight encampment or academy.  Others will enjoy traveling abroad through the International Air Cadet Exchange Program.

Today’s cadets are tomorrow’s aerospace leaders. Through its Cadet Program, Civil Air Patrol has been transforming youth into responsible citizens since 1942. To achieve its overall goals, the Cadet Program is organized around four main program elements: 

-Leadership

-Aerospace

-Fitness

-Character

Military Commitment: Although the Air Force provides most of CAP’s funding, cadets are not obligated to join the military. However, 10% of the cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy got their start in CAP. Civil Air Patrol develops youth through a self-paced study of the art of leadership. Cadets learn how to lead through formal classroom instruction and a laboratory of hands-on experience where they apply leadership principles to real-world challenges within the cadet corps.

Through a graduated curriculum, cadets first learn to follow, then to lead small groups, and ultimately experience command and executive-level leadership, earning cadet grade and honors along the way. Topics include how to think critically, communicate effectively, make decisions, motivate and manage conflict. Self-discipline and teamwork are emphasized.

For more information, visit http://www.capmembers.com/cadet_programs/.

Cadet Programs Links: Links or references to individuals or companies does not constitute an endorsement of any information, product or service you may receive from such sources.

CAP Cadet Programs Quick links- http://www.capmembers.com/cadet_programs/quick-links/

Ribbon Checker- http://www.mcchord.org/rack_builder/

National Cadet Special Activities- http://ncsas.com/

Spaatz Association- http://spaatzassociation.wordpress.com/