Become a Civil Air Patrol Cadet: New Cohort at Andrews Composite Squadron

Andrews Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol, is opening a new cadet cohort this fall.

The Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program builds leadership, physical fitness, character, and hands-on knowledge of aerospace. Cadets wear the uniform, earn promotions, and get opportunities in flight, emergency services, and STEM that most young people never see.

How to join: Prospective cadets attend three meetings before joining. This cohort’s path:

1. Thursday, October 29 | 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM | Joint Base Andrews Library
2. Thursday, November 5 | 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM | Joint Base Andrews Library
3. Saturday, November 7 | 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM | 1602 Brookley Ave, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762: Great Start Saturday. A full-day introduction to cadet life covering customs and courtesies, drill, uniform basics, and what to expect as a new cadet. This day counts as your third meeting.

Who can join: Young people who are at least 12 years old (or in 6th grade) and not yet 18.

Base access: All sessions are on Joint Base Andrews. After you register, adults without a DoD ID will receive an email with instructions for requesting base access. See the FAQ below.

Parents and guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend the first meeting to learn about the program and ask questions.

Questions? Contact Lt Rebecca Stallworth at stallworth.r@natcapwg.cap.gov

What Civil Air Patrol cadets do

Orientation flights: Cadets fly in Civil Air Patrol powered aircraft and gliders, often taking the controls with an experienced pilot beside them. For many cadets, it's their first time in a cockpit.

Encampment: Encampment is a week-long immersive training experience. Cadets live, train, and lead alongside cadets from across the region, and many say it's where they found their confidence. Completing encampment is a major milestone in cadet life.

Aerospace education: Cadets explore the science of flight, rocketry, space, drones, robotics, and cybersecurity through hands-on activities and STEM projects.

Leadership: Cadets earn promotions through a structured program of leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character development. As they advance, they lead other cadets, plan activities, and take on real responsibility.

Emergency services: Cadets can train in search and rescue, ground team skills, and disaster relief, and serve their communities alongside Civil Air Patrol members.

National opportunities: Cadets can compete for national special activities, including flight academies, career explorations, and leadership schools, plus scholarships toward college and flight training.