The day I turned 12 (the minimum eligibility requirement), I enthusiastically joined the Cadet Civil Air Patrol (CAP) program, a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. CAP focuses on leadership, emergency services, aerospace education, fitness, and character development.
Over the past 5 years, I've had the privilege of serving in various leadership positions. The CAP has been instrumental in laying a solid foundation of discipline, strong principles, and values. It has taught me how to work as a team, coping skills, self-discipline, problem-solving skills, resource management and so much more. It has shaped me into an effective leader and much more.
Today, I serve as the Cadet Commander of Jason M Dahl Squadron 36 in San Jose, CA, an 80-member Cadet Squadron of the California Wing. I am responsible for executive oversight of Cadet Staff, mentoring, supervision, and direction of all cadet activities.
Looking back and reflecting on the past 5 years, I am amazed at how much I have learned, the experiences I have gained, and how it has shaped my character and qualities.
The Staff Duty Analysis (SDA) program provides Cadet Officers with a construct for not only getting cadet staff work done but also promoting critical thinking and communication skills through the practical application of leadership in a staff / organizational environment.
By participating in the SDA program, Cadet Officers
Develop critical thinking skills relating to project management and leadership challenges that cadet officers are likely to encounter during staff service; and
Become proficient in communication skills used in an organizational setting, such as developing technical writing/management documents and delivering oral presentations
The SDA program is comprised of the following eight modules. Each of my SDA paper is listed below: