Becoming a Civil Air Patrol cadet (ages 12 - 18) is a rewarding experience, full of opportunities you won’t find anyplace else. Joining is easy and it begins by first attending our squadron's open house.
STEP ONE: Attend Our Open House
The first step to become a Civil Air Patrol cadet is to attend a squadron open house which are typically scheduled for the FIFTH TUESDAY of a month (see our schedule on the Home Page for next open house date). There is no obligation to join by attending, in fact you need to attend at least three meetings before you can sign up (this allows you to see if Civil Air Patrol is a good fit for you). Come with your parents and meet the squadron leadership team, participate in a presentation that outlines all the benefits and opportunities that come with being a cadet, and discuss the Civil Air Patrol with current cadets so you’ll come away with a good understanding of the program.
STEP TWO: Begin Our Great Start Program
Our Great Start Program begins the very next week following the open house and lasts for eight weeks. Prospective cadets are grouped together into a training group (called a "Flight") where they receive instruction from more advanced cadets. Learning what it's like to be a cadet, you will be introduced to marching drill and ceremonies, learn about Civil Air Patrol's rich history, participate in team leadership exercises to build teamwork and communication skills, learn about the Civil Air Patrol uniform and how it's worn, learn about state and national activities for cadets, learn about flying and scholarship opportunities, and learn about the importance of character development and physical fitness in your everyday life.
STEP THREE: Join Civil Air Patrol
After attending your first three meetings, you'll be offered the opportunity to join Civil Air Patrol. Cadets and parents complete an on-line membership application, meet with our squadron supply officer for uniform sizing, and meet with the squadron commander to have any last-minute questions answered.
At the end of the eighth week, cadets graduate from the Great Start orientation program and are integrated into the rest of the squadron. At this point, more than 90% of graduating cadets will have completed the requirements for their first promotion and will be advanced to the grade of Cadet Airman (C/Amn). Parents and family are all invited to the graduation ceremony to pin new rank insignia onto the collars of their proud Civil Air Patrol cadets!
