Senior v. Cadet Development

[kpetersen]

This is probably the former cadet in me coming out, but I'm a bit confused about the progression on the Senior Member side of things.  I mean, I know of cadet who have earned their spaatz, crossed over to the CAP Officer side, and then 10 years down the road, they're still sitting at captain.  Yes, AFIDL 13 has a bunch of useless knowledge, but I know a lot of seniors that get Level 2, maybe even 1, and sit there for years.  I guess what I'm asking is:

1.  Why does this happen?
2.  What can be done to change it?
3.  Should it even be changed?

[SDF_Specialist]

This is probably the former cadet in me coming out, but I'm a bit confused about the progression on the Senior Member side of things.  I mean, I know of cadet who have earned their spaatz, crossed over to the CAP Officer side, and then 10 years down the road, they're still sitting at captain.  Yes, AFIDL 13 has a bunch of useless knowledge, but I know a lot of seniors that get Level 2, maybe even 1, and sit there for years.  I guess what I'm asking is:

1.  Why does this happen?
2.  What can be done to change it?
3.  Should it even be changed?

I haven't hit Captain yet because of time in grade. But please allow me to chime in and try to answer your questions.

1. Why does this happen?
There are a lot of acheivements for officers to progress in the professional development track. Look at the requirements for Lt. Col. Sometimes, these are ridiculous if you ask me. To go to the various courses such as SLS, CLC, RSC. It just gets to be too much.

2. What can be done to change it?
First, there could be an elimination of some of the required items. I'm ok with time in grade personally because it gives you a chance to mature and prove that you are ready for the next grade and the responsibility that comes with it.

3. Should it even be changed?
A lot of Officers like the way it is, but there are also a lot of officer who want to progress but can't because of all of the requirements. There should be some alternatives introduces to make it a bit easier for the people who can't attend the various courses.

That's just my opinion.

[jeders]

This is probably the former cadet in me coming out, but I'm a bit confused about the progression on the Senior Member side of things.  I mean, I know of cadet who have earned their spaatz, crossed over to the CAP Officer side, and then 10 years down the road, they're still sitting at captain.  Yes, AFIDL 13 has a bunch of useless knowledge, but I know a lot of seniors that get Level 2, maybe even 1, and sit there for years.  I guess what I'm asking is:

1.  Why does this happen?
2.  What can be done to change it?
3.  Should it even be changed?

1. Unlike the cadet side of the house, rank is not always that important for seniors, unless they want to move up in the command structure, i.e. group/wing/region/national commander.

The best way I can explain it is the way a former Spaatzen turned senior explained it to me. Being a captain is just about right. Any lower and people treat you like you don't know anything. The only reason to go higher is if you to boss around other seniors.

As far as some requirements being ridiculous, that's only true if you want to promote to full colonel in the absolute minimum time required, and even that can be done with time to spare if you try hard enough. The requirements for doing courses and going to conferences are there to make sure that seniors are exposed to all parts of CAP, not just the squadron.

3. Should there be changes made, yes.

2. The reason that a lot of people sit, beyond not caring that much about a gold leaf instead of silver bars, is that a lot of the courses aren't readily available. Some wings only offer SLS and CLC once a year. The changes that need to be made are relaxing the requirements, we've done enough of that in other areas. The changes that need to be made are making these courses more readily available to the masses that want them.

[Pace]

1. Why does this happen?
There are a lot of acheivements for officers to progress in the professional development track. Look at the requirements for Lt. Col. Sometimes, these are ridiculous if you ask me. To go to the various courses such as SLS, CLC, RSC. It just gets to be too much.

It doesn't have to be done frequently, and one PD course per level is the least appropriate it can get without handing the awards out like candy.  What I believe should be done is a restructuring of SLS and CLC, since they cover many of the same topics, or a clear guide should be made and distributed since the ones I've been to were taught almost identically.  In fact, I think the number of requirements is low considering that one's progression through the PD should set you apart from those who don't progress as it should show your level of dedication to personal improvement and partipation in the program(s).  Now I'm not talking about people that haven't been in long.  I'm more referring to the original statement of people that came in as captains and 10 years later there's still no leaves on their shoulder.  However, one's PD level is not the determining factor of one's worth to CAP, but the requirements for the awards certainly should not be reduced.

2. What can be done to change it?
First, there could be an elimination of some of the required items. I'm ok with time in grade personally because it gives you a chance to mature and prove that you are ready for the next grade and the responsibility that comes with it.

That time in grade doesn't take into consideration the professional and personal improvement and greater gain of skill-specific knowledge that the PD program currently requires.

3. Should it even be changed?
A lot of Officers like the way it is, but there are also a lot of officer who want to progress but can't because of all of the requirements. There should be some alternatives introduces to make it a bit easier for the people who can't attend the various courses.

Agreed.  Supposedly, the corporate staff tried several years ago to make regionalized National Staff Colleges so more people could attend.  Politics and ownership of the program won out, and it's still at Maxwell, scheduled at an inconvenient time of the year; although every few years (4, I think), they offer it in the summer.  If you truly can't make it to the (RSC/NSC) courses, there are alternatives that have been in place for a while.  Not registering for those is no excuse to blame CAP for getting stuck at a lower grade, which would still be Major since it only requires CLC.

As for the original post:

This is probably the former cadet in me coming out, but I'm a bit confused about the progression on the Senior Member side of things.  I mean, I know of cadet who have earned their spaatz, crossed over to the CAP Officer side, and then 10 years down the road, they're still sitting at captain.  Yes, AFIDL 13 has a bunch of useless knowledge, but I know a lot of seniors that get Level 2, maybe even 1, and sit there for years.  I guess what I'm asking is:

1.  Why does this happen?
2.  What can be done to change it?
3.  Should it even be changed?

1. Sometimes people focus so much on the mission(s) of their choice that they neglect the SM PD program since it's not a integral part of our program like it is for the cadets.  I say as long as they're contributing to the mission, who cares if they decide to promote or not.  I just don't want to hear their whining when they don't qualify for certain selective courses/positions or when they don't get selected because of their rank.

Then, of course, there's the group that are only in CAP to do what they want (usually to fly) and couldn't care less about staff assignments, specialty tracks, PD courses, and responsibility.  They're here to fly (or insert other activity that they'll do but nothing else to help CAP).  Period.

2 & 3.  I don't think it should be changed for the reason I mentioned above.  It distinguishes those that *want* to better themselves and CAP from those that don't.   Where there is a will, there IS a way.

Sharks, dig in...

[davedove]

Then, of course, there's the group that are only in CAP to do what they want (usually to fly) and couldn't care less about staff assignments, specialty tracks, PD courses, and responsibility.  They're here to fly (or insert other activity that they'll do but nothing else to help CAP).  Period.

I think that's probably the biggest reason right there.  These folks come in, get their initial grade (for pilot or whatever) and then just stay where they are.  They contribute to their part of the mission, and are happy to do so.

As far as not having the courses available, I think folks just need to look a little harder.  Now, I understand it would be harder in some states, but I've only been a member for a little over a year and I will soon have my Level III.  In addition, I'm working towards Ground Team Leader and wear a couple of hats in the squadron.  That's on top of a full time job.  And before you say it, I am far from a hard charger; I like my down time a lot.  But it can be done.

But, to provide a bit more insight into the original question, you don't HAVE to progress in the senior member program to contribute to CAP.  Once you've completed Level I, you can do pretty much anything you want in CAP except get promoted without the PD.

[jimmydeanno]

Then, of course, there's the group that are only in CAP to do what they want (usually to fly) and couldn't care less about staff assignments, specialty tracks, PD courses, and responsibility.  They're here to fly (or insert other activity that they'll do but nothing else to help CAP).  Period.

There is a difference between some of those people.  I have seen many types.

The first being the pilot who joins soley for the cheap flying.  The only time you see this member is when the prop is turning...I think we can all agree, that's bad.

The second being the pilot who joins because he wants to fly as a cadet orientation pilot.  He gives a day 3 times a month to fly and shows up for the safety briefings and squadron meetings.  He doesn't care about being a captain or progressing the senior program because he's retired and doesn't really care about going to CLC because he wants his role in the volunteer organization he joined to be low level, nothing to do with command.  He stays at the grade of SM FOREVER!

The third being the pilot who joins for the same reason above and does the same thing, but his Sq CC knows that he can be appointed as a Captain and does so even though the pilot doesn't care.  Since he only wears the polo combo when he flies, what's the point in knowing your a captain, as long as you can keep flying the cadets and filling your role in the unit, after all, wearing gold leaves doesn't make you a better pilot...

Then there is the joined, know's they're a captain, figures..."Eh, I have enough grade" what's the point of taking that "AFLADILL" course, I can still fly, stay a captain, and not have to doing anything to keep it.

[DogCollar]

I've been in a little more than a year, having received my chaplain appointment as a Captain last Sept.  Chaplains really don't have insentive to progress in PD and rank unless they want to serve in a setting "higher" than squadron.  I don't ahave the time or the inclination to serve beyond the squadron setting.

Also, the PD requirements, at least the chaplaincy specialty track, is...well...poorly written and confusing.  I really like what I'm doing now...moral leadership...informal pastoral care to cadets/senior members/and families.  I like being a cheerleader for those who are achieving great things in their own development, and the one to offer encouragement to that cadet or two that seem to be struggling.

I personally like both my wing chaplain and my region chaplain.  I attended the Region Chaplain Staff College in May, greatly enjoyed it, got a lot out of it, enjoyed the fellowship of other chaplains and MLO's.  That being said, I don't want to take classes (especially when they are only offered on weekends....hello, Mcfly...hello ...most chaplains have regular weekend gigs)...and It's not necesaary to achieve a higher grade when chaplains don't exercise command, but our authority comes from our integrity and our ability to pastorally relate effectively to others.  That's not something learned is AFIDL classes or SLC or CLC.

[ZigZag911]

My feeling is that AFIADL CAP Officer Course (old ECI-13) should be required for 2nd Lt....it is, after all, CAP equivalent to a RM "Officer Basic Course:.

The idea of regionalized NSC is appealing....it's an issue that ought to be raised again....offer a bit of variety in times offered, possibility of less travel expense.....it's a course more of our senior leaders need....ACSC is a wonderful course....I've started twice, it is absolutely fascinating material, but so time consuming and such a relatively short completion time, i have not been able to finish it.

[SDF_Specialist]

One thing I don't understand is the requirement to instruct or direct an SLS, CLC etc. Isn't that a PDO thing? There are a lot of people who are uncomfortable with speaking in front of large crowds. I use to be one until I became a Comms instructor, but that's just me. What about eveyone else?

[Cecil DP]

The fact is that since is Professional Development is optional and usually not a priority for units. Most Squadron's have enough problems meeting the mandatory requirements of the program. SLS'ss and CLC's are held at most twice a year and usually together on a holiday weekend.

If I were running the world, every Wing would delegate the conduct of these schools to the Groups with a requirement that they be held at least 1 a year and in coordination with adjacent groups IE Group I would have a SLS in Jan and a CLC in July, Group II would have a CLC in March and a SLS in September. There fore everyone within driving distance (2 Hours) would have two opportunities to get the training needed.  TLC's would be included in the Group's requirements
UCC's would still be a Wing responsibility.

The last PDW in Florida was in Coral Springs, so that to some people in the furthest reaches it would require a 10-12 hour (700 miles) drive each way and hotel reservations. I feel that while these PDW's are a good thing the travel requirements including lodging, tend to keep those needing them to stay away.

[Cecil DP]

My feeling is that AFIADL CAP Officer Course (old ECI-13) should be required for 2nd Lt....it is, after all, CAP equivalent to a RM "Officer Basic Course:.

The idea of regionalized NSC is appealing....it's an issue that ought to be raised again....offer a bit of variety in times offered, possibility of less travel expense.....it's a course more of our senior leaders need....ACSC is a wonderful course....I've started twice, it is absolutely fascinating material, but so time consuming and such a relatively short completion time, i have not been able to finish it.

Actually the regionalized NSC's turned into the Region Staff Colleges.

[Pace]

Actually the regionalized NSC's turned into the Region Staff Colleges.

That may have been the case years ago (waaaaay before I even knew about CAP), but considering this comment came from someone while I was a cadet who is now at the top of one of the NHQ chains, that idea did not transform into something that already exists.

[arajca]

1. The requirement also allows for directing an SLS/CLC. You can do that without getting in front of the class.

2. I have yet to see SLS and CLC held at the same time. And I NEVER seen either held on a holiday weekend.

3. The 2 hour driving distance is good for the little states, but if your group takes at least 10 hours to cross, you have problems. Group 2 in COWG covers the norhtern half of the state.

[Camas]

One thing I don't understand is the requirement to instruct or direct an SLS, CLC etc. Isn't that a PDO thing?

It's required if you wish to complete Level IV (instruct) or Level V (direct).  It's not the answer for everyone as many are quite happy completing Level II or III. Check out CAPR 50-17; you'll find the answer to your question there.  It really isn't a "PDO thing"; it's something you'll have to do to complete the higher levels in professional development.

[SDF_Specialist]

One thing I don't understand is the requirement to instruct or direct an SLS, CLC etc. Isn't that a PDO thing?

It's required if you wish to complete Level IV (instruct) or Level V (direct).  It's not the answer for everyone as many are quite happy completing Level II or III. Check out CAPR 50-17; you'll find the answer to your question there.  It really isn't a "PDO thing"; it's something you'll have to do to complete the higher levels in professional development.

So if you direct an SLS or CLC, you don't get credit for Level IV, just V?

[Eclipse]

2. I have yet to see SLS and CLC held at the same time. And I NEVER seen either held on a holiday weekend.

SOP in my Wing - which is why I find [redacted]'s blustering about his awesome PD Weekends humorous.
We've never done it any other way - makes better use of the instructors, facilities, and the calendar.
Anyone eligible to be an instructor (i.e. has completed both SLS & CLC), can also teach both, so tag-teaming a few members as instructors makes things easy, and keeps things more consistent.

So if you direct an SLS or CLC, you don't get credit for Level IV, just V?

Correct.
Level IV="staff member" (i.e. instructor, though I suppose "donut guy" would technically qualify as well),
Level V="director" (i.e. PIC)

The answer to the PD question with seniors is easy - none of it, beyond Level 1, is required to do >ANYTHING< within CAP.  Even the guidelines for Wing CC are "recommendations".

Because of that, members who joined to "fly", or do "cadet stuff", or "whatever", and who find a way to do it, don't see the need.  Couple that with the huge PITA getting PD stuff ordered / tested / credited, and members just throw up their hands and say "forget it".

If their commander is both regularly reminding people of the positive aspects and rewards of the work, >and< progressing himself, the circle of life is completed.

I don't agree with it, but "SAY LOVEE"

[RiverAux]

I think most people fail to progress because they're not terribly interested in it.  While I have known some people stuck in a rank because they continually had conflicts with scheduled SLS/CLC classes, most people can get up to Major with very little effort on their part in a relatively short period of time. 

The other thing keeping some folks back is that it isn't always emphasized.  Unless you've got active Admin/Personnel officers pushing people they probably won't do it unless they've got a lot of internal motivation. 

[SoCalCAPOfficer]

2. I have yet to see SLS and CLC held at the same time. And I NEVER seen either held on a holiday weekend. 

Our Group held SLS, CLC and an AFIADL 013 Review Course all together in one weekend.  They have done it every year for the past couple of years.

[SarDragon]

If that's the one that was at March a while back, I was an instructor, and had a blast. Can't wait to do it again!

[mikeylikey]

Move the courses on line.  Expand on  them and make them just like the AFIADL program.  Require a test.  Also require finding a mentor and actually having to do things that can not just be "pencil-whipped" through. 

Having one SLS or CLC a year is ridiculous, at the very least.  Paying to attend these courses is ridiculous, especially when they are located on military instillations.  Get an MSA, get the free billeting and the reduced lunch and dinner prices in the DIFAC.  If need be, have the wing pay 5 dollars to buy the member attending lunch and dinner at McDonald's.  I know others that are getting sick of throwing money toward WING HQ, when they bring so much in every year, and most of it goes to support Hawk MTN.  PAWG actually charges 10 dollars per night for BOQ billeting, when I know for fact that the Post will put CAP up for free in the BOQ if there is an activity going on.  I set it up, and I would like to know why people are paying for billeting in PAWG, and PAWG is not paying the billeting office.  Can we say FRAUD, WASTE and ABUSE? 

Sorry.....you can see my hatred for my Wing!

[SAR-EMT1]

The this is that I all but fell asleep in SLS etc.
(having been a cadet)

The only bad thing about it is that Ive never worked up the courage to enter the O-Club during the Courses...Not sure how I would be recieved, or how much it would cost.

[Flying Pig]

Im going to SLS in Nov here in Ca.  I am getting off work at 0200 and reporting in at 0700 then sitting in class all day.   I think Im going to bring a case Mt Dew with me.

As far as the O-club......ouch......I think I'd steer clear.

[SDF_Specialist]

Im going to SLS in Nov here in Ca.  I am getting off work at 0200 and reporting in at 0700 then sitting in class all day.   I think Im going to bring a case Mt Dew with me.

Better suggestion. Get the new Coke (Pepsi?) that has twice the caffeine and more gensing. It does wonders. Also hot tea will keep you awake.

[Pace]

Im going to SLS in Nov here in Ca.  I am getting off work at 0200 and reporting in at 0700 then sitting in class all day.   I think Im going to bring a case Mt Dew with me.

Better suggestion. Get the new Coke (Pepsi?) that has twice the caffeine and more gensing. It does wonders. Also hot tea will keep you awake.

In extreme situations, so will dipping coffee granules.

[SDF_Specialist]

Im going to SLS in Nov here in Ca.  I am getting off work at 0200 and reporting in at 0700 then sitting in class all day.   I think Im going to bring a case Mt Dew with me.

Better suggestion. Get the new Coke (Pepsi?) that has twice the caffeine and more gensing. It does wonders. Also hot tea will keep you awake.

In extreme situations, so will dipping coffee granules.

I actually knew a guy who would do that. It seemed to have worked for him.

[Pace]

Im going to SLS in Nov here in Ca.  I am getting off work at 0200 and reporting in at 0700 then sitting in class all day.   I think Im going to bring a case Mt Dew with me.

Better suggestion. Get the new Coke (Pepsi?) that has twice the caffeine and more gensing. It does wonders. Also hot tea will keep you awake.

In extreme situations, so will dipping coffee granules.

I actually knew a guy who would do that. It seemed to have worked for him.

Hey, it kept me awake during many a AFROTC "briefings".

*Sorry for getting off topic folks - I'll take it to PM if I need to respond again.*

Back to your regularly scheduled "what the hell is wrong with CAP SMs" discussion...

[SDF_Specialist]

Back to your regularly scheduled "what the hell is wrong with CAP SMs" discussion...

I'll tell you what's wrong with SMs. They aren't like me

[Eclipse]

One thing I don't understand is the requirement to instruct or direct an SLS, CLC etc. Isn't that a PDO thing? There are a lot of people who are uncomfortable with speaking in front of large crowds.

SLS & CLC >is< professional development, which is why they are required for progression - the reasoning being that we are trying to help people become "professionals".  The effectiveness, or lack thereof, of a particular Wing's program not withstanding the point.

You've answered your own question - its about "development" - which is why many members cite CAP as a turning point in their "real" professional lives because they were "forced" to work outside their comfort zone, but in a benevolent environment.

[SDF_Specialist]

Good point sir. As I've stated in a previous post, I never seem to actually get out what I'm trying to say. This is my fault, no one elses. What I want to know is if this is a requirement for progression, why isn't it directed and instructed by the Wing PDO?

[Eclipse]

Good point sir. As I've stated in a previous post, I never seem to actually get out what I'm trying to say. This is my fault, no one elses. What I want to know is if this is a requirement for progression, why isn't it directed and instructed by the Wing PDO?

In many cases they are, but why would you expect them to do all the work?

>A< staffer doesn't mean >the< staffer.

By design, SLS & CLC are Wing functions, equiring the Wing CC or designate to approve the activity and
the Form 11.

Like everything else in CAP, the nuts and bolts of the activity itself are delegated to various personnel throughout the wing.

In many cases the Wing PDO will be the PIC of the event, with a separate dir for each side of the house, and then a number of instructors for the classes.

[Camas]

   

Why isn't it directed and instructed by the Wing PDO?

    Our wing recently held an SLS and I was privileged to assist as an instructor.  Once I completed my obligation I went home, got out of the way and let my course director take it from there.

    We just completed a CLC a week ago and I didn't even make an appearance.  My course director had it all together and, with a master rating in professional development, he isn't new to doing courses of this nature. He sure didn't need me around to get in the way.  My job was done ensuring that these courses were properly set up, that they "happened", and that the paperwork was completed; getting all the students accredited and that sort of thing.

     In addition my two course directors will now get credit for a Level V requirement in directing a course of this nature and a bunch of people who stepped up to the plate in assisting by signing on as instructors will get credit for meeting a Level IV requirement.

    As my wing DPD, this is how I see my obligation; ensuring that all this happens.

[Eclipse]

    As my wing DPD, this is how I see my obligation; ensuring that all this happens.

Beautiful answer...

It's also interesting to see how simple getting to level V can be if you are moderately active and engaged in the program. It all flows together and just happens with regular participation.

The only two real "hurdles" are ECI13 and RSC.

[LeoBurke]

Couple of things....

1.  SLS & CLC - In the great State of Michigan, we have held SLS's and CLC's at the same time since their
     inception.  Not every time, but often enough.  They are held when there is a demand, but at least 3-4
     times a year across Michigan.  (Michigan is #22 in size by area - More coast line than any state but
     Alaska. - From the most Southeastern to the most Northwestern city, roughly a 16 hour drive in good weather)

     We also have a "Senior Basic Flight" at the GLR-North encampment and at previous MI Wing Encampments.   
     At various times we have included ECI-13 and AEPSM courses.  We usually take the opprtunity to teach them
     a little Drill & ceremonies. 

     A big chunk of these people return in future years to staff the encampment. 

2.  With regard to Pilots, (or doctors or chaplains or any special promos):  If you've only seen three types you haven't
     looked closely enough.  Lots of SENIORS join CAP for one reason and stay for other reasons.  Sure we attract pilots
     and sure they want to fly cheap or for free.  But that is not the sole driver.   I know one CFII in particular who joined
     to do something for his country.  Spent some time working the Mission Pilot path and discovered he could give dual
     to cadets (no money for him).  That has been his fav activity for some time now.  Lots of other pilots have spent time
     on the ground (GTM/GTL) or Mission Base staff and Incident Commanders. 

     Their not all "Maverick" wannabees or time-builders or polo-shirt slackers.

3.  Polo shirt slackers.  I have a couple thoughts.
     
     a.  Michigan's motto is:  If you seek a pleasant peninsula look around you.  I know its lame but follow my logic. 
          "If you seek a better senior member, look around you"  Then along time ago I learned "Leadership is the art
          of influencing others to achieve a common goal or objective."  Combine them and you get to be a leader by
          influencing the actions of those seniors that you look down on. 

     b.  It's been my experience that a lot of seniors are influenced or recruited by the flying club types.  But deep
          down they really want to be part of the other CAP.  There just hasn't been anyone offering to help them
          to be a part of the other side of CAP.

     c.  Many of the best pilots, mission staff and ICs in Michigan Wing come from a single most Outstanding Senior
          Squadron.  In fact, I would challenge you to look at them and discern a difference between them and many 
          active duty USAF squadrons.  No kidding.  What makes the difference? Leadership and Esprit de Corp. 

You can stand there and complain about others or you can jump in and do something about it.  Your call. 

[Eclipse]

     b.  It's been my experience that a lot of seniors are influenced or recruited by the flying club types.  But deep
          down they really want to be part of the other CAP.  There just hasn't been anyone offering to help them
          to be a part of the other side of CAP.

[Capt M. Sherrod]

Well said, Leo.  I think that you hit the nail on the head as far as getting people involved and motivated.

[Capt Rivera]

One thing I don't understand is the requirement to instruct or direct an SLS, CLC etc. Isn't that a PDO thing? There are a lot of people who are uncomfortable with speaking in front of large crowds. I use to be one until I became a Comms instructor, but that's just me. What about eveyone else?

Think about that for a moment. To the public higher rank means more experience/professionalism/knowledge etc....

How would you feel if your wing CC is briefing state officials and fails at getting what you need because the people who should be listening only notice how nervous he is, how many times he says "Umm", how hes dancing across the presentation area because he cant keep himself still.

It might not be a persons preference but you need to be capable of representing cap in a good way to hold high rank. Barring physical/mental defects which MIGHT be apparent to someone talking to a member at random [press, general public]

Yes I know a good CC who realizes that he/she can't public speak SHOULD get someone who can to represent him/ speak for CAP....

Part of being in a professional organization if looking to improve it AND yourself. If someone isn't even willing to try something once to meet the public speaking requirements of the professional development program... I don't think they should progress....

[Short Field]

Level IV="staff member" (i.e. instructor, though I suppose "donut guy" would technically qualify as well),

Yes, the donut guy does qualify as staff - although I would hope he did more than just drop off the donuts.  But providing admin and facilities support ("gofer duty") can help make a SLS or CLC a success. 

The biggest thing holding most of our seniors back (we have about 100 seniors in the squadron) is lack of progression in a specialty track.  This is followed by not completing ECI 13, then not attending two Conferences.