Empowering Future Leaders Through Mentorship and Real-World Experience

Program Overview

The Civil Air Patrol Mid-Atlantic Region Leadership Exploration Advancement Program (LEAP) internship is designed to cultivate leadership potential among cadets by providing hands-on experience, structured mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through LEAP, cadets gain valuable insights into real-world leadership challenges, develop new skills, and create lasting connections with experienced mentors.

Program Objectives

• Develop leadership and management skills through practical, project-based learning.
• Enhance teamwork and communication abilities in both virtual environments.
• Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Prepare cadets for future CAP leadership roles and civilian career paths.

Mentor Selection

Mentors are carefully selected from experienced Mid-Atlantic Region staff members who demonstrate a commitment to youth leadership development.

• Recruitment: Open to CAP Mid-Atlantic Region staff members with leadership experience and a passion for mentorship.
• Responsibilities: Guide mentees through program phases, develop learning opportunities for cadets, provide feedback, and ensure adherence to all program policies.

Mentor Recruitment

The recruitment process for mentors is open exclusively to Civil Air Patrol Mid-Atlantic Region staff members. Candidates must possess a solid foundation of leadership experience and demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for guiding and supporting cadets in their development. This ensures that the program is staffed by individuals who are not only qualified but also dedicated to the principles of mentorship and youth leadership advancement.

Mentee Selection

Prospective mentees must be active CAP cadets in good standing, who have reached the grade of C/Col or C/Lt Col, with demonstrated interest in developing leadership skills. The selection process includes an application, recommendation from a squadron commander, a brief questionnaire to assess motivation and readiness for the program, a resume, and job-style cover letter to evaluate participants' written communication skills.

Eligibility Criteria

• Hold C/Col or C/Lt Col at time of registration.
• Demonstrate commitment to personal growth
• Receive endorsement from unit and wing leadership
• Maintain satisfactory academic standing

Application Process

• Invitation is submitted via email to all cadets in Mid-Atlantic Region listed as C/Col or C/Lt Col in eServices.
• Cadets apply using Registration Zone.
• Cadets complete and submit questionnaires, resume, cover letters, and reference.  These are reviewed based on set criteria.

Selection Process

• Resume, cover letter, and reference show the cadet has a basic understanding of area.
• Demonstrates good written communication skills.
• Exhibits a strong motivation for applying for program.
• Expresses a commitment to participate fully in all program activities and meet project deadlines.

Program Structure

Cadet Protection Protocols

LEAP prioritizes the safety and well-being of all participants. The program follows Civil Air Patrol's Cadet Protection Policy, which includes mandatory training for mentors, two-deep leadership during all activities, and clear guidelines for all communications. Virtual meetings are conducted on secure platforms with appropriate supervision, and all interactions are documented for transparency.

Evaluation and Reporting

Participant progress is tracked throughout the program using regular check-ins, milestone reviews, and mentor feedback. Mentees will maintain a reflective journal, and turn in monthly reports.  Mentors will complete constructive evaluations at each stage and submit a final capstone project report. Program effectiveness is assessed via participant reflections, mentor reports, and post-program surveys, ensuring continuous improvement.

Past Capstone Projects

• Uniform Supplement: Development of uniform supplement for hot weather option for flights during summer activities.
• AE Kit Redefined: Formulation of a plan to integrate 3-D printer-designed STEM kits into the Aerospace Education program.
• Pamphlet Development: Composition of written feedback on proposed National guidance for FAST teams.
• Strategic Planning: Participation in the planning process for the Regional Strategic Planning Meeting.
• Update Program Curriculum: Develop data driven feedback on hybrid Region Cadet Leadership School (RCLS) curriculum used to draft new materials.
• AEO School: Develop and present a class during the Regional Aerospace Education Officer School

Contact Information

For more information or to inquire about the LEAP internship, please contact your Wing Director of Cadet Programs.