Skip to main content
Civil Air Patrol National Headquarters
Main Content

Strategic Planning

Civil Air Patrol Governance

Strategic Plan

Looking to 2034 - Civil Air Patrol will be nationally known and recognized as the best place to lead and serve.

Our Vision

Civil Air Patrol will be nationally known and recognized as the best place to lead and serve.

Principles of Success

Civil Air Patrol’s Strategic Plan outlines a clear vision for the future: to be nationally recognized as the best place to lead and serve. Looking toward 2035, the plan defines success across four core areas, including becoming the nation’s most trusted youth leadership program, a fully integrated and effective Air Force Auxiliary, the premier nationwide partner in emergency services, and a leading aerospace-focused leadership development organization. This vision is supported by a strong foundation built on growing membership, operational excellence, and sustainable, diversified funding, ensuring Civil Air Patrol remains a trusted and impactful force in service to the nation.

Strategic Priorities

These priorities guide CAP’s long-term planning, resource alignment, mission readiness, and organizational development.

America’s Most Trusted Youth Leadership Program

CAP will continue building a nationally respected cadet experience that develops leadership, character, aerospace knowledge, discipline, and service.

An Integrated and Effective Air Force Auxiliary

Civil Air Patrol will strengthen operational readiness, mission support, interoperability, and integration with the United States Air Force Total Force.

The Premier Nationwide Partner in Emergency Services

CAP will continue supporting communities and agencies nationwide through search and rescue, disaster response, aerial reconnaissance, communications, and humanitarian missions.

Aerospace-Focused Leadership Development

Civil Air Patrol will remain a leading aerospace-centered leadership organization that inspires future aviators, innovators, public servants, and community leaders.

Foundations for Growth

This vision is supported by a strong foundation built on growing membership, operational excellence, and sustainable, diversified funding.

A Robust and Growing Membership

Civil Air Patrol will expand and sustain a strong, engaged volunteer force through member development, retention, leadership opportunities, and a mission-focused culture.

Unmatched Operational Excellence

Civil Air Patrol will deliver consistent, reliable, and high-quality performance across every mission area through readiness, safety, professionalism, and accountability.

Sustained and Diversified Funding Sources

Civil Air Patrol will strengthen long-term organizational stability through sustainable funding, responsible stewardship, partnerships, and strategic investment.

Looking Ahead

Preparing CAP for 2035 and Beyond

Through investment in people, partnerships, operational readiness, leadership development, and technology, Civil Air Patrol will continue strengthening its role as a trusted national resource and premier volunteer service organization.

Return to Governance
© 2026 Civil Air Patrol. All rights reserved.