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As a nonprofit entity receiving federal grant funding, we are reviewing and seeking clarity on recent executive orders and federal directives that may apply to our organization. Our national commander/CEO, Maj. Gen. Regena Aye, will communicate any necessary actions and timelines as applicable and is the official spokesperson for CAP.

The NHQ toll-free line (877-227-9142) is now operational.

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Aerospace Education Excellence Program (AEX) For Squadrons

Civil Air Patrol's Aerospace Education Excellence (AEX) program for squadrons fosters and recognizes engaging and consistent use of aerospace/STEM activities.

Participants have access to a variety of AEX-titled Civil Air Patrol books and other CAP aerospace-related STEM books, lessons and activities, and resources such as CAP STEM Kits. Completion of the AEX program helps units earn both the AE Achievement Award and the Quality Cadet Unit Award.                                                      

For a place to start, poll your squadron members (cadets and/or seniors) to find the subject areas of most interest. You will find aviation, space and cyber topics in the 

How to participate:

  • Register to participate by completing the AEX registration online at CAP's eServices. Registration is required for each year (Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) you choose to participate. Register for AEX in eServices. Go to eServices, then, in the left Menu column, click Aerospace Education and then AEX, and "Apply for AEX."  

  • Complete six aerospace activities and one two-hour or longer field experience (space day; trip to the airport or museum, etc.) to earn a squadron certificate plus color certificates for the cadets and senior members.  (You may lead an additional two lessons to meet the 2-hour activity requirement, if that works for you and your squadron.)

    • See particularly, the AEX II (middle and high school age) book, as well as many other AEX-titled books ready for online download, at eServices/Aerospace Education/AE Downloads and Resources. (See curriculum list HERE.)

    • For additional lessons to consider, go to the CAP AE curriculum page, lessons and activities pages and left menu item links, lesson videos page, and Aerospace/STEM Resources for Remote Education. Also, for participants' consideration, a comprehensive library of excellent virtual video lessons is found on the South Carolina Wing's Robert Roberts Aerospace Education YouTube channel. 

    • AEOs can also use their own activities from like-minded organizations, such as NASA and others, that provide STEM lessons.

    • When you are ready to enter your AEX activities, go back eServices/Aerospace Education/AEX and click "AEX Award Report." You may enter the AEX activities as each one is finished (and they will be saved), or you may wait until all activities are completed. This must be completed no later than Sept. 30 for the past year. 

    • For squadrons in schools, state-approved curriculum may replace or supplement the CAP AEX activities created for this program.

    • Many lessons involve free or low-cost materials.

    • Culminating AEX activities can be as simple or as extravagant as the participants wish.

    • AEX program activities should take place between Oct. 1 and Sept. 30 each year.

  • After your report is submitted, your certificates will be mailed to you for presentation. Submit your completion report at least 3-4 weeks prior to needing certificates. See certificate templates here.

E-mail questions to aex@capnhq.gov.

PARTICIPATE IN AEX

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