CADET COMMANDER
Position Type: Command Staff
Minimum Grade: C/2d Lt
Maximum Grade: C/Col
Role Description: Cadet command is the ultimate challenge for a cadet officer. It is an enormous test of leadership skill, especially one’s ability to articulate a vision and point all cadets toward meaningful goals. The position stands at the epicenter of the squadron: The cadet commander is the most visible cadet, a role model for the entire cadet corps, and the liaison between the senior staff and the cadet staff. The nature of this position depends on the number of cadet officers and NCOs in the squadron. Therefore, the position description must be flexible. When the squadron is small, the cadet commander may need to assume flight commander and even first sergeant duties. When the squadron is large, the main task is to direct and coordinate a team of cadet officers and NCOs.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Set Goals for the Squadron.
    The vision for the cadet corps must stem from the cadet commander. Use your insight and experience to point the squadron toward exciting and meaningful goals. Survey cadets’ interests to learn what activities they desire. Confer with the squadron commander or deputy and propose short range (weekly), mid-range (quarterly), and long range (yearly) goals for the squadron to achieve.
  • Establish Plans, Policies & Procedures.
    Keep the squadron focused on its goals by setting short term training objectives for each weekly meeting and special activity. Ensure all cadet activities are well planned and successful. Continually evaluate the effectiveness of the cadet staff’s standard operating procedures.
  • Coordinate Cadet Staff Activities.
    Build a spirit of teamwork among the cadet staff. Outline basic guidelines for how they will work together. Hone and clarify the various cadet staff position descriptions. Convene and chair cadet staff meetings on a regular basis. Serve as the primary liaison between the senior member and cadet staffs.
  • Make Personnel Recommendations.
    Propose cadet duty assignments. Mentor one or more cadets as your potential successor(s). Ensure cadets receive meaningful feedback about their leadership performance through the CAPF 60-90 process. Make promotion recommendations.
  • Direct the Cadet Corps.
    Cadet commander is the ultimate position in the cadet corps’ hierarchy. Supervise and mentor all cadets, especially cadet officers, while working through the chain of command. Resolve conflicts and disputes. Motivate and discipline cadets, working through the flight commanders. Keep the senior staff informed of any issues that may develop into serious problems, and all issues affecting the general safety and welfare of the cadets.
  • Promote Excellence.
    Lead by example and motivate all cadets to live the Core Values and meet or exceed CAP standards concerning the fundamentals of cadet life. Lead the inspection party during squadronlevel uniform inspections. Ensure the cadet staff is aware of potential safety hazards and takes steps to keep cadets safe, especially during field activities.
  • Lead Drill & Ceremonies.
    Command all squadron-level cadet formations. Assist with cadet promotion and award ceremonies.