Join as a Cadet
If you are between the ages of 12 and 18, you can join Civil Air Patrol as a cadet and participate in our Cadet Program. In the Cadet Program, you are taught valuable lessons about leadership, given aerospace instruction, and have opportunities of a lifetime.
Leadership:
Civil Air Patrol cadets get amazing leadership opportunities, from leading small groups to large activities. Cadets begin the cadet program as Airmen, in a rank structure similar to our parent organization, the Air Force. Over time, as they are taught leadership both at local meetings and at larger events, they rise in rank and get more opportunities, from leading a single element of four or five fellow cadets to commanding the very activities they learned from.
Aerospace:
Civil Air Patrol's dedication to aviation and resources put us in a unique position and give us a capability few other groups have. One of the Aerospace Education programs' primary goals is to give our cadets the opportunity to fly. CAP cadets are given the ability to have 5 flights in CAP aircraft, absolutely free. CAP also runs a model rocketry and aircraft program, giving our cadets the chance to explore both model rocketry and model aviation. There are national activities for CAP cadets to "learn to fly" a model aircraft, and there are several build-your-own model rocket programs for CAP cadets to get hands-on-experience. Additionally, classroom aerospace topics are held monthly and range from aircraft fundamentals to satellite systems.
Opportunities:
Civil Air Patrol cadets are given amazing opportunities. From the statewide encampments, similar to military basic training, to nationwide special activities like the Experimental Aviation Association's AirVenture or national leadership schools, cadets can enjoy a variety of activities for any interest.
How to Join:
We conduct several new member classes throughout the year. This gives the you a chance to see our squadron in action and to help decide if this is for you. To sign up for the next class, fill out the information below. There is no obligation to join, and you will be sent further information. A parent or guardian must attend the first meeting with the prospective cadet. The meeting usually lasts about 2 hours. The "Parents FAQ" has a list of frequently asked questions as well as downloadable information for parents.
Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to hearing from you.
