joining without having been a cadet

[manfredvonrichthofen]

CAP can be a very valuable asset to members no matter if they were a cadet or not. And don't let the way that these threads go discourage you either, they always run off on a tangent because of something somebody says rubs someone the wrong way.

I am about done with EMTB class and will take my NREMT tests in a month, and I can already see a great deal that my training can be of an asset for ground search operations. I would suggest you look into the same, you don't have to do it, but just look into it. CAP has requirements for ground team members to have first aid training and CPR training and it is always had to get instructors for it if you don't have one already in the squadron. I am saying that because as an EMT it is a short stones throw to be an instructor for CPR and FA.

There are a multitude of things you can do for CAP, and a multitude that CAP can do for you. Look into it and give it a run through. I bet you will enjoy it.

[esl550]

Thanks to everyone for the valuable input, it's always good to hear about an organization from those involved. Glad to know that my age/lack of CAP experience won't be an issue. The former was probably one of my bigger concerns.

Anyway I'll be emailing the commander of the senior squadron and finding out more about what they do specifically. Definitely excited to learn more.

Also to the poster who mentioned looking at other squadrons: I would but the closest composite squadron is about an hour and a half away and the cadet squadrons are the same if not further. So I hope the senior one works out! 

[Nathan]

Also to the poster who mentioned looking at other squadrons: I would but the closest composite squadron is about an hour and a half away and the cadet squadrons are the same if not further. So I hope the senior one works out! 

You know, if you're really worried about it, you should just volunteer yourself to create a cadet program at the senior squadron and convert the whole shabang to a composite squadron...

[Fubar]

You know, if you're really worried about it, you should just volunteer yourself to create a cadet program at the senior squadron and convert the whole shabang to a composite squadron...

How about we let the guy join and get his feet wet before we expect him to save the world 

Don't worry, I knew what you meant.

[The CyBorg is destroyed]

I hadn't heard of CAP when I was of cadet age.  I wish I would have, because I probably would have eaten it up, but for whatever reason, I didn't.

As an EMT you already have the mindset of saving lives and alleviating suffering.  CAP can always do with that.

And I would also say not to let what is often said on CT by various members (me included!) put you off the organisation as a whole.

[EMT-83]

Like the OP, I joined CAP with no aviation experience and was not a former cadet. I had a similar background as an EMT and administrative experience, especially with non-profits.

My CAP career started with squadron admin and professional development, onto deputy commander and then to wing staff. Along the way, I managed to complete MS, MO, GTL and GBD, thanks to some talented and motivated ES folks.

You really can make a difference, if you're willing to put in the time. Go for it!

[Private Investigator]

You know, if you're really worried about it, you should just volunteer yourself to create a cadet program at the senior squadron and convert the whole shabang to a composite squadron...

That does not make sense. The OP was never a Cadet, a Senior Squadron is present, how can you make a Composite Squadron when apprently their is ZERO INTEREST in the Cadet side?   

[Nathan]

You know, if you're really worried about it, you should just volunteer yourself to create a cadet program at the senior squadron and convert the whole shabang to a composite squadron...

That does not make sense. The OP was never a Cadet, a Senior Squadron is present, how can you make a Composite Squadron when apprently their is ZERO INTEREST in the Cadet side?   

It was in response to his apparent interest in the cadet programs, as he had mentioned he had looked at composite and cadet squadrons in his area. I had the sentence quoted.

For a private investigator... well, I won't go there. 

[Private Investigator]

You know, if you're really worried about it, you should just volunteer yourself to create a cadet program at the senior squadron and convert the whole shabang to a composite squadron...

That does not make sense. The OP was never a Cadet, a Senior Squadron is present, how can you make a Composite Squadron when apprently their is ZERO INTEREST in the Cadet side?   

It was in response to his apparent interest in the cadet programs, as he had mentioned he had looked at composite and cadet squadrons in his area. I had the sentence quoted.

For a private investigator... well, I won't go there. 

nathan you took it out of context. He was wondering if he could participate in CAP with no background in CAP as a Cadet. Saavy? Now the next point, well, I won't go there either ...