FAQs
What is Encampment?
The Summer Encampment is one of the most important Cadet Program experiences! Whether a cadet is a first-year student, or a more experienced cadet, this week-long activity develops leadership skills; provides in depth orientation to STEM activities; contributes to building a habit of regular exercise; and teaches Civil Air Patrol's Core Values. If you are a cadet, you need to go to encampment!
What is Advanced Training School?
The Advanced Training School (ATS) is an academy for cadet NCOs and young officers seeking to enhance their leadership skills and knowledge of cadet life. ATS offers challenging academics, practical exercises, and simulations to develop effective communication, logical thinking, and quick decision-making. The motto "Semper Excelsius" reflects our commitment to fostering professionalism and education. By participating in ATS, cadets develop the skills needed for leadership in cadet-led activities and beyond. The program focuses on hands-on experiences and practical knowledge, preparing cadets for challenging leadership roles within the organization.
The ATS curriculum has been revamped this year and we expect students to be even more prepared after completing this school. Students must have graduated from a Basic Encampment to attend ATS.
What do cadets do at Encampment?
Cadets develop skills and abilities to help them develop fully as leaders. Cadets wear their uniform every day, participate in aerospace and career development activities, have challenging leadership opportunities, learn to do problem solving in teams, and have fun! Potential special activities include orientation flights, low-ropes course, team competitions and a graduation parade!
Which cadets should attend?
All cadets should attend Encampment. First time Encampment cadets attend as students, and cadets who have already completed Encampment can participate in the advanced student program or serve as cadre.
How can I serve as cadet cadre?
If you've attended at least one Encampment, and would like to serve on cadet cadre, an email was sent out 29 January with open positions and application procedures. The deadline has passed for 2024 and the Cadet Cadre Org Chart is now available.
Can senior members participate at Encampment?
The encampment depends on senior members working closely with the cadet cadre. We need about 30 senior members to serve as Training Officers and fill key leadership roles within the Encampment. A separate email asking for senior member support went out 30 Jan.
When and where will Encampment be held?
July 21-27 for students; senior members and cadet cadre arrive on July 20.
How much does Encampment cost?
The cost for Encampment for cadets is $300 and senior members is $100, and includes lodging, food, and special activities. Payment is not required at this time. Payment is expected to be done through the Registration Zone once it is activated. Financial Aid is available for cadets through the CEAP program.
How does supervision work?
Each cadet is part of a flight of approximately 10 other cadets. Each flight has two cadet staff members who are in charge of the flight. These cadet staff members have attended encampments in the past and have been chosen from an application process to serve in these positions. Each flight has at least one senior (adult) staff member assigned directly to it. These senior members are called Flight Training Officers. In addition to the Flight Training Officers, there are approximately 40 senior members and cadet staff members who serve on staff for this encampment. Included in this staff are a chaplain and a health services/safety officer.
Every adult member and cadet member over the age of 18 have completed training known as the Cadet Protection Program. Staff members are also trained for homesickness and accommodations are made for disabilities.
How does safety work?
The ultimate responsibility for the cadets and the week's events rests on the Encampment Commander. We understand that you have entrusted the encampment staff with the safety and care of your child during the week. We do not take that responsibility lightly.
How does communication work?
We do not allow cadets to have phones or electronics during the week to ensure that they remain focused on their training and bonding with their flight. However, the staff will be working to allow cadets to receive mail throughout the week. If there is a situation where a cadet must contact home, arrangements will be made. We will never ban a cadet from contacting home in an emergency situation. In the event of any serious problem, we will contact you promptly.
