About 15 Medicine Hat Royal Canadian Air Cadets
15 Medicine Hat Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron has proudly served the Medicine Hat community since September 28, 1941. For over 80 years, we have provided local youth with opportunities to develop leadership skills, confidence, friendships, and a passion for aviation.
We welcome youth ages 12–18 to join our squadron and become part of a program that builds character, teamwork, and real-world skills — all at no cost.
Cadet Opportunities & Activities
Field Training Exercises (FTX)
Cadets participate in overnight training exercises where they learn practical outdoor survival skills, teamwork, and leadership in a structured environment.
Familiarization Flying
Cadets have the opportunity to experience powered flight and see aviation concepts come to life.
Gliding Days
Under the supervision of qualified instructors, cadets take part in glider flights and experience flight firsthand.
Marksmanship & Biathlon
Cadets train in safe and supervised marksmanship using the C12A1 air rifle and may compete at local and provincial levels.
Sports & Fitness Nights
Cadets participate in physical training, indoor and outdoor sports, swimming, skating, and team competitions such as basketball and volleyball.
Aerospace & Leadership Training
The Air Cadet program includes structured training in aerospace, aviation technology, and leadership development. Cadets explore topics such as air traffic control, airport operations, aircraft systems, and aviation mechanics.
This hands-on training helps cadets understand how aviation works while building problem-solving skills and technical knowledge that can support future careers in aerospace and beyond.
Aircrew Survival Training
Air Cadets learn essential survival skills through practical, scenario-based training. During our annual “Aircrew Down” exercise, cadets practice building shelters, starting fires, signaling for rescue, and working as a team in outdoor environments.
Whenever possible, these exercises include an overnight component, allowing cadets to apply their training in real-world conditions while developing resilience and leadership skills.
Flying & Pilot Training Opportunities
One of the most exciting opportunities in Air Cadets is flying. Cadets may participate in glider and powered aircraft familiarization flights, where experienced pilots demonstrate flight principles and aircraft operations.
Eligible cadets aged 16 by Sept. 1 the year the course is taken and older who have completed Level 3 training may apply for advanced summer flying courses. These competitive programs can lead to earning a glider pilot license or a private pilot license — at no cost to the cadet.
