CADET TRAINING AREAS
There are six training areas for Cadets in CAP. You will normally be participating in all six areas throughout the month. The training areas are:
AEROSPACE
Aerospace Education includes projects and activities, book knowledge, and orientation flights. The first book, Aerospace Dimensions vol. 1, is divided into six chapters which form the basis of the aerospace testing cadets take to earn promotions. Aerospace projects and activities may include model rocketry, radio control model aircraft, aerospace tours, aviation museums, aircraft simulator orientations, and air show attendance. You must pass a test on one chapter for most of your promotions.
LEADERSHIP
Leadership Training is accomplished by progressing through the four phases of the program. During these four phases, you will learn leadership skills through the use of drill (marching) and practical experience leading other cadets. Progression to higher phases is accomplished by completing various achievements during each phase. The completion of each achievement level indicates a readiness for increased responsibility and consideration for advancement in grade, i.e. a promotion. Eventually, you will become proficient enough in these skills to teach other Cadets. Each promotion requires that you pass a multiple-choice exam on one chapter.
CHARACTER
Character Development is a monthly structured discussion relating to issues of morality and ethics of decisions that many teenagers face in today’s society. General topics include: volunteerism, drug influence, honesty, integrity, and many others. Attending Character Development sessions are part of your promotion requirements.
PFT
Physical Fitness occurs regularly in the schedule, and also includes occasional weekend activities. The physical fitness training is usually quite enjoyable for cadets. At least once a month, cadets participate in one of two forms of physical activity: a workout session or the CAP Physical Fitness Test. Passing the Cadet Physical Fitness Test (CPFT) is required for each promotion. If there is a medical condition that would preclude your participation in the Physical Fitness program or testing, a doctor will have to complete a waiver form. The waiver form can be found here (downloads a PDF). If you need a copy of the form prior to receiving your books, please request one from a member of the administrative team.
ACTIVITIES
Activities are usually aerospace, emergency services, community service or fitness-related in nature, and are always intended to be a positive step in your growth. Activities may include orientation flights in powered aircraft, glider flight training, volleyball and drill competitions, public speaking, radio communication training, and much more. Activities are open to cadets who participate actively in all other aspects of the program.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Emergency Services training prepares cadets for involvement in ground-based search operations. The main purpose of this training is to develop proficiency in tasks that assist in the location of missing aircraft or persons in need of assistance. Training elements include: first aid and CPR, radio operations, navigation by map and compass, survival techniques, aircraft marshaling, and more. You will be taught in both a classroom setting and in the course of Field Training Exercises held in the field on weekends.
