Information for Cadets

New this year, National Conference is introducing Cadet Tracks—learning experiences designed specifically for cadets. These cadet-only sessions put cadets at the center, offering meaningful, engaging content tailored to where they are now—and where they’re headed next. Whether you’re focused on building leadership skills, exploring future careers, or preparing for what comes after cadet life, Cadet Tracks give you the chance to learn, connect, and grow alongside cadets from across the country.

Cadets 12-20: Standard Track 

The Standard Cadet Track offers cadets the flexibility to choose sessions that match their interests and goals. With session topics spanning leadership development, career exploration, aerospace, and STEM, cadets can dive into areas that inspire them while gaining practical skills they can apply immediately. This track is ideal for cadets who want to explore, learn, and expand their horizons in an engaging, cadet-focused environment.

View the 2026 offerings in the Cadet Pocket Guide

Cadets18+: Transition Track 

Designed for cadets 18 and older, the 18+ Transition Track supports cadets who are beginning to look ahead to their next chapter. Cadets in this age range can choose to participate in the Standard Cadet Track or step into adult learning sessions alongside senior members. These sessions are geared toward understanding senior member roles, responsibilities, and opportunities—making this track a great fit for cadets preparing to transition, explore leadership beyond cadet life, and envision their future within the organization.

View the 2026 offerings in the Senior Pocket Guide

Cadet Registration Required – No Walk-Ins

This year, cadet walk-in registrations will not be accepted. Because National Conference is offering dedicated cadet-only sessions and cadet-focused learning experiences, all cadets must be fully registered in advance to participate. Walk-in registration will not be available for cadets.

Cadet participation will be limited to ensure a high-quality experience, so early registration is strongly encouraged. Registering in advance secures your spot in cadet sessions and ensures proper planning, supervision, and access to all cadet programming. If you plan to attend as a cadet, be sure to complete registration ahead of time—don’t wait and risk missing out!

Cadet Code of Conduct

Each cadet must print, review, sign, and turn in the Cadet Code of Conduct upon arrival at the conference.

Cadet-Only Evening Activities

This year there will be evening activities specifically for cadets.

Thursday:

Cadet Meet n’ Greet
7:00-8:00 PM 
UOD: Civies; Optional – wear your favorite squadron shirt 
Kick off the conference with a cadet-only meet and greet, designed to help you meet fellow cadets, make new friends, and connect with peers from across the country. Led by cadet staff.

NCAC Open House 
 8:00-9:00 PM 
UOD: Civies 
After the Meet & Greet, stop by the NCAC Open House to connect with cadet leaders from across the country, learn how councils operate, and explore opportunities to get involved and grow your leadership.

Friday

Cadet Mystery Activity
7:00-8:30 PM 
UOD: Civies 
Join us Friday night for a cadet-only Mystery Activity—an after-hours surprise packed with fun, energy, and a chance to connect with cadets from across the country.

Saturday

Cadet Lounge 
7:00 – 8:30 PM 
UOD: Civies 
Close out the conference with a casual cadet-only hangout—drop in, spend time with friends old and new, and enjoy a laid-back evening together before heading home. 

All Weekend Long!

Scavenger Hunt
Take part in the conference-wide scavenger hunt, all weekend long! Complete challenges like attending sessions, connecting with others, and exploring key events. Turn in your completed Passport by 3:30 PM on Saturday and win an exclusive prize. 
Pick up and return passport at the Cadet Programs Hangar table. 
 

Career Connections

Career Conversations: Exploring Pathways Through Professional Networking 

Friday: 9:45 – 10:30 AM Panel, 10:30-11:30 AM Networking
Hear from a panel of professionals representing careers in aerospace, STEM, leadership, and beyond as they share their experiences and advice with cadets. After the panel, participants can freely move throughout the networking area to ask questions, make connections, and engage in informal conversations with professionals from a variety of 

Career Directory

This year’s National Conference is launching a Career Directory that connects cadets directly with senior members working in a wide range of professional fields. Cadets can browse the directory to explore different careers, see real job titles, and identify senior members who are open to sharing their experiences during free moments at the conference. It’s an easy, low-pressure way to ask questions, hear real stories, and start conversations that could shape future goals.

Career Discovery Hangar Table

Visit the Career Connections table during each Hangar session to meet a rotating group of professionals—from STEM and aviation experts to leadership speakers and CAP staff—ready to answer questions, share career insights, and help you build your network.

Activities for Cadets & Seniors

Pre-Registration required. For more information on these events visit the Activities page.

• 3K fun Run - Saturday Morning

• Chiefs Football Game Package

• Commander's Reception Saturday 

Career Discovery Table

Visit the Career Connections table during each Hangar session to meet a rotating group of professionals—from STEM and aviation experts to leadership speakers and CAP staff—ready to answer questions, share career insights, and help you build your network. 

Sponsor Tables

Visit the sponsor tables marked with this symbol to connect with industry professionals who are eager to talk with cadets about career exploration, share their experiences, and help you start building your network.

Book Signing

Don’t miss the book signing in the Hangar for Dangerous Shores; the author will be on site to meet cadets and sign copies. The book explores World War II and the role Civil Air Patrol and other civilians played in protecting the east coast from German attacks. Interested in becoming a writer? Take a moment to network!

Sphero Robot Races

Try your hand at navigating a robot through an obstacle course as quickly as possible and compete for the best time!

To ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone, all cadets attending National Conference are required to have an identified adult chaperone for the duration of the event. This chaperone may be an adult leader or a parent/guardian, whether or not they are a CAP member. Cadets must list their designated chaperone during the registration process.

Adult chaperones are responsible for cadet supervision throughout the conference, especially during downtime. If you are chaperoning cadets, you are responsible for your associated cadets for the entirety of the conference. This includes but is not limited to: staying at the same hotel or accommodation as your cadets, observation of medication self-administration, and overall supervision. While line of sight supervision is not required per CAPR 60-2, all chaperones must be able to respond promptly in case of emergency. 

This structure helps maintain appropriate supervision while allowing cadets to fully engage in the conference experience. Please review this requirement carefully and plan accordingly before registering.

Cadet Code of Conduct

Each cadet must print, review, sign, and turn in the Cadet Code of Conduct upon arrival at the conference.

Uniform

Blues: Class A or Class B

Meals

Breakfast and lunch provided with basic registration.

Saturday evening reception available at additional cost.

What To Bring

• Note pad and pen

• Squadron t-shirt for Thursday night Meet & Greet