What Parents Should Know Before Joining Air Cadets
If you’re considering Air Cadets for your child, you likely have a few questions — and that’s completely normal.
At 15 Medicine Hat Royal Canadian Air Cadets, we understand that parents want to ensure their child is in a safe, positive, and worthwhile program. This guide answers some of the most common questions to help you make an informed decision.
💲 Is Air Cadets really free?
Yes — the core Air Cadet program is completely free to join.
Uniforms, weekly training, and many activities — including summer training opportunities — are provided at no cost. While cadets may participate in fundraising throughout the year, there are no required fees to be part of the program.
Are cadets part of the military?
No. Cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and there is no obligation to join the military.
The program is supported by the Canadian Armed Forces and the Air Cadet League, but its focus is on youth development — including leadership, citizenship, and physical fitness.
🛡️ Is the program safe?
Safety is a top priority in the Air Cadet program.
All training is supervised by qualified staff and Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) officers who are trained to ensure a safe and structured environment. Activities are age-appropriate and designed with safety in mind at all times.
🕕 What is the time commitment?
Cadets typically attend one training night per week.
At 15 Medicine Hat RCACS, training takes place on:
- Mondays
- Doors open: 6:00–6:30 PM
- Training: 6:30–9:00 PM
Additional optional activities may take place on weekends or during special events.
🎒 What does my child need to get started?
To join, your child must:
- Be between 12–18 years old
- Be a Canadian resident
- Provide proof of age and a provincial health card (Alberta Health Care)
Registration is completed through the online portal and is completely free.
Once registered, cadets will be guided through the intake process. Uniforms and training materials are provided at no cost, though they are typically issued after initial intake is complete.
For the first few training nights, cadets should bring:
- A water bottle
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Sturdy footwear
If applicable, parents should also provide any necessary medical information to ensure a safe and supportive training environment.
✈️ What opportunities are available?
Air Cadets offers a wide range of experiences, including:
- Aviation and aerospace training
- Gliding and familiarization flying
- Leadership development
- Field training exercises (camping and survival)
- Community service
- Sports and fitness activities
As cadets progress, they may also apply for advanced training opportunities, including pilot training courses.
🤝 Will my child fit in?
Yes. Air Cadets is designed to be inclusive and welcoming.
Cadets come from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. New cadets are supported by both staff and senior cadets, making it easy to feel part of the group.
🌟 What are the long-term benefits?
Air Cadets helps youth develop:
- Confidence and independence
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Strong communication abilities
- Responsibility and discipline
These skills benefit cadets in school, future careers, and everyday life.
✈️ Why families choose Air Cadets
Parents in Medicine Hat choose Air Cadets because it offers a safe, structured, and rewarding environment where youth can grow, learn, and succeed.
🚀 Ready to Learn More?
If you’re interested in learning more, we welcome you to visit us on a Monday training night and see the program in action.
At 15 Medicine Hat Royal Canadian Air Cadets, we’re proud to support youth as they grow into confident and capable individuals.
