Being a female cadet in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is an experience that combines leadership, discipline, and fun in a way few other programs can. CAP is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, and as a cadet, I get to train in aerospace education, emergency services, and leadership development. What makes it exciting is that while it’s serious business, there’s also plenty of room for personal growth and memorable experiences.
As a girl in this program, I sometimes stand out because the majority of cadets are male. But that just motivates me to push harder and show that capability has nothing to do with gender. From learning how to march in formation to studying aircraft systems, every day brings a new challenge. One of my proudest moments was earning my first achievement ribbon—proof that hard work and dedication pay off.
The best part? The opportunities are endless. I’ve been able to attend flight orientation rides, practice search and rescue drills, and even learn the basics of piloting a small aircraft. It’s not every day that a teenager gets to sit in the cockpit of a Cessna! Beyond aviation, CAP builds character and confidence. It teaches respect, teamwork, and leadership—skills that will help me for the rest of my life.
And yes, I still have fun. My friends and I joke around, share inside memes, and enjoy the “teehee” moments in between all the drills and classes. Being a female cadet isn’t just about breaking stereotypes; it’s about proving to myself that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Civil Air Patrol has opened doors I never imagined—and this is just the beginning of my journey.
