NCO Corps????

[pdjd7428]

I just grabbed this information from the NOV2007 NEC Agenda. What does anyone thing of the actual feisability of an NCO Corps in the CAP?

INFORMATION BACKGROUND:
In May 2007, the National Commander appointed a working group to investigate the
possibility of developing a viable NCO corps within the senior member program. The
group has been researching a number of issues that affect the ability of NCOs to
become a more meaningful part of Civil Air Patrol. While current regulations allow
former military NCOs to retain their NCO grade in CAP, there are no provisions for
these members to earn any further promotions. In order to attract qualified former
NCOs to the program, we need a mechanism to allow them to progress in the program
in the same manner as the senior member officers. The ability to earn future
promotions would be the first step toward fully integrating the NCO grades into the
overall structure of the organization.
Additionally, some new members do not wish to obtain officer grades or are better
suited to the NCO corps. Currently, this is not an option unless these individuals have
previously served as enlisted members of the Armed Forces. The ability to bring new
members in at the enlisted grades appears to be the next step toward developing a fully
functioning NCO corps.
Since the Air Force has retained control of the CAP grade structure, it will be necessary
to request their approval to change the current NCO grade restrictions; however, this
cannot be done until specific criteria have been established.
PROPOSED NEC ACTION:
That the National Executive Committee vote to approve the concept of future
promotions for former military NCOs; task the working group to develop promotion
criteria for each grade, and present a proposal to the May 2008 NEC.
Also, approve the working group to consider concept of individuals without prior military
service being eligible for promotion to NCO grades. The working group is to develop a
program for these individuals to earn NCO grades through CAP participation and
training. This plan should be presented to the summer 2008 National Board for
consideration.
ESTIMATED FUNDING IMPACT:
To be determined.
CAP NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS' COMMENTS:
The NHQ staff provided assistance to the initial NCO Working Group and will continue
to provide support as necessary.
November 2007 NEC Agenda
30
CAP-USAF HEADQUARTERS' COMMENTS:
Concur with action as drafted above.
DCS / NATIONAL STAFF COMMENTS:
To be presented.
REGULATIONS AND FORMS AFFECTED:
CAPR 35-5, CAP Officer and NCO Promotions and Appointments
NEC ACTION:

[MIKE]

Discussion already ongoing here.