Is it getting easier or harder to be squadron CC?

[RiverAux]

I was a squadron commander back in the early 2000s and thankfully I had great staff members who handled almost all the paperwork involved in running a CAP unit.  The only exception was that I pretty much had to handle ES paperwork myself.  To some extent I think I lucked out in being in a larger unit which made such delegation possible and I know there are/were plenty of smaller units where the squadron commander had to do a much larger share of the overall work involved in running the unit due to a lack of people

From where I sit now it seems as if there have been some changes in bureaucratic procedures and the increasing use of e-services that would make the life of a squadron commander easier.

I'd like to hear from some current squadron commanders who have been around for a while to get their point of view on this.  Is it getting easier or harder to take care of the basic administrative duties of squadron commander? 

[Spike]

Easier.  I don't have to break out the typewriter to fill out three copies of the form 2.  I can assign positions on line, send electronic forms, and approve cadet activity requests from my bedroom in my boxers. 

I spend less than 1 hour a day on CAP "commander" stuff, which includes checking E-services, reading emails, following up with prospective members, and of course getting on CAPTALK. 

So, my vote.....easier.  NOW, it is harder for the basic member because there are many more on line tests and presentations he or she must complete. 

[Gunner C]

My biggest problem was meeting all the suspense dates on this or that report.  It appears that the administrivia has gotten heavier since I was a commander.  As long as you have a good calendar, you're good to go (along with an exhaustive list of who needs what and when).

[brasda91]

My biggest problem was meeting all the suspense dates on this or that report.  It appears that the administrivia has gotten heavier since I was a commander.  As long as you have a good calendar, you're good to go (along with an exhaustive list of who needs what and when).

I agree with Gunner on the admin stuff.  We have no internet at either of our sqd hqs.  I'm on my second tour as a sqd cc.  The first time was a few years ago.  The GLR CC has imposed a term limit on sqd cc.  3yrs with a waiver for an additional year.  None of the other seniors want the sqd cc position, I enjoy it and they enjoy me being the cc.  Safety reports, AE reports, report this and report that.  Give me a break.  Seems like there are senior members across the country h***-bent on making CAP just like active duty.  Examples, GLR requirement on sqd cc term of office, taking away the ability to assign/unassign finance committee members, unit membership board, unit promotion board and so on.

Yes, having the forms and regulations online is easier, per say.  You still have to ensure your thumb-drive is current.  Not hard but just time consuming.  I think the biggest thing is the reports that you have to ensure your staff is completing.