National Geospatial Academy

National Geospatial Academy
“From Maps to Missions — Be the Geospatial Eyes of the Emergency.” 

What if you could use satellites and other sources of imagery and maps to protect communities, help first responders, and respond to disasters? 

At the National Geospatial Academy, you’ll step into the world of geospatial intelligence, satellite imagery, emergency mapping, and high-tech disaster response — the same tools used by FEMA, NASA, the military, and first responders across the country. 

This one-of-a-kind NCSA brings you face-to-face with cutting-edge technology, expert mentors, and real-world missions — all in the heart of the national capital region.  

Over 7 days, you'll gain hands-on experience with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing tools, and geospatial disaster assessment methods. You’ll even earn the Geospatial Damage Assessment (GSDA) operations qualification and be involved in real-world CAP missions. 

What You’ll Do 

• Create interactive maps using Esri’s ArcGIS — the same software used by FEMA, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), and NASA 

• Analyze satellite imagery and drone data to assess real-world disasters 

• Discover how geospatial tools support lifesaving missions after hurricanes, wildfires, and floods 

• Visit federal agencies like FEMA, NGA, NOAA, and more 

• Network with geospatial professionals, analysts, and CAP national staff 

Why You Should Apply 

• Earn real-world skills that can lead to careers in national security, emergency management, environmental science, and tech 

• Stand out on college applications and scholarships. 

• Be among the first cadets nationally to train in advanced CAP geospatial capabilities. 

• Gain mentorship and insider access to the geospatial community and federal agencies. 

• Join a tight-knit team of cadets and mentors shaping the future of CAP operations. 

Ready to see the world differently? 
Apply for the National Geospatial Academy and take your place at the forefront of CAP’s most innovative mission set. 

Participants are required to be US Citizens at the time of application.

Note: Cadets enrolled in Cadet Wings are not eligible for national activities until they complete the program or are disenrolled.

The following are required at the time of application

• Must be at least age 15 by the first day of the activity

• Must be under 21 years of age at the end of activity

• Must have Encampment Credit

• Must be a US Citizen

• Must have updated CAP Health in prior 30 days

Staff Application Information

Cadets:

• Must be at least age 15 by the first day of the activity

• Must be under 21 years of age at the end of activity

• Must have Encampment Credit

• Must be a US Citizen

• Must have updated CAP Health in prior 30 days

• Other requirements TBA

Senior Members: 

• Must be current in Cadet Protection training

• Must be a US Citizen

• Must have updated CAP Health in prior 30 days

• Other requirements TBA

Apply in Registration Zone

Applications will be accepted from 15 December through 15 January at 12pm Central.  

Parent, Unit and Wing Approval deadlines must be met in order for an application to be considered. 

All participant and staff applications must be submitted via Registration Zone in eServices. 

Lift/Top is a needs-based financial assistance program. If selected as a Lift/Top recipient, your activity tuition will be paid by NHQ . Recipients outside the continental US will be eligible for a travel reimbursement up to $600 towards round trip transportation to and from the activity. See the Lift/TOP page for eligibility requirements and program details.

CAP Cadet Scholarships: Through the generosity of our supporting donors, some CAP scholarships focus on supporting cadet attendance at NCSAs through a merit-based application process. Please see the Scholarship page to see the full list of available Activity Scholarships.

How to apply:

• Applications for both Lift/Top and CAP Scholarships are located in Registration Zone.

• You must apply for each program for which you wish to be considered.

• Lift/Top and each CAP Cadet Scholarship have their own individual Registration Zone events, separate from activity applications.

Important:

• Applying for these financial support programs does not guarantee financial assistance will be offered.

• You must compete for and receive a slot at an activity.

• You will be notified if you are a recipient of financial aid/scholarship before you are required to accept or decline a slot at an activity.

The deadline to apply for these financial support programs is 15 January at 12pm Central. No late applications will be accepted. 

• Actively participate in 80% of the contact hours and not dismissed early for behavior

• 80% of curriculum verified by completed assignments

• Activity Director determines course objectives met

• Activity Staff will provide transportation between Dulles International Airport only and the activity location.

• Required Staff Training on TBD at TBD