Information For Seniors

This year's sessions span a broad range of topics and themes relevant to every role across the organization: 

Leadership Development and Mentorship – practical strategies for developing leaders, mentoring members, and strengthening culture at every level of CAP 

Cadet Programs and Youth Development – innovative ideas and proven practices to enhance cadet experiences and growth 

Safety and Risk Management – tools and insights to strengthen safety culture, improve readiness, and manage risk across CAP operations and activities 

Health, Chaplaincy, and Member Wellbeing – collaborative approaches to caring for the whole member, including resilience, member support, and health-related policies and practices 

Operations and Mission Support – topics that improve operational effectiveness, including maintenance management, operations planning, mission safety, and insights into the CAP-USAF partnership 

Legal, Compliance, and Accountability – how CAP's legal guidance, compliance processes, and oversight systems support fair decision-making, proper membership practices, complaint resolution, and organizational accountability 

Cross-Functional Collaboration – how directorates and specialty areas can work together to solve challenges and achieve better outcomes for members 

All sessions are open to adult members unless otherwise noted. View the full lineup of senior member sessions. 

QPR Suicide Prevention Training & Certification

QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training equips participants with practical skills to recognize warning signs of suicide, engage in a supportive conversation, and connect individuals with appropriate resources. In this interactive 90-minute session, participants will earn an a certification from the QPR Institute and gain confidence in responding when someone may be in crisis.

The session will take place over one learning session and part of the hangar session that immediately follows it. Two time slots available (Friday morning & Saturday Morning). Pre-registration is required (in the Sub-event section). Cost: $10. 

For more information about QPR, visit: qprinstitute.com/about-qpr

Career Connections

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. 

Senior members—this is your chance to make a meaningful impact. By opting in during registration, you’ll be listed in the Career Directory with your career field and title, signaling that you’re open to connecting with cadets during the conference. A short conversation can spark curiosity, offer clarity, or inspire a cadet’s next step. If you’re willing to share your journey and engage with cadets, we invite you to opt in and be part of this powerful learning experience.

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.

Conference Activities

To find out more about other activities such as the Chiefs Arrowhead Stadium tour, the 3K Fun Run, Commanders Reception, and more visit the Conference Activities page.

Conference Coin

At registration, purchase your own numbered 2026 National Conference Coin to commemorate your attendance. Purchase of this coin is non refundable. Only 500 coins are available for purchase.

Book Signing in the Hangar

Don’t miss the book signing for Dangerous Shores; the author will be on site to meet members 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. 

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

Guest Attire

• Business Casual

• Semi-Formal / Formal Attire

• Military Service Dress

• Mess Dress 

Meals

Breakfast and lunch provided with basic registration.

Saturday evening reception available at additional cost.

What To Bring

• Business cards

• Note pad and pen