Prospective Members
Find a Civil Air Patrol Squadron Near You
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has squadrons across the nation made up of volunteers who serve their communities through emergency services, aerospace education, and youth leadership programs. Explore Scottsdale Composite Squadron 314 below, or use the official CAP locator to find another squadron near you.
View Scottsdale Squadron 314's Official Page
Looking for another Civil Air Patrol squadron? Search the National Squadron Locator
Why Join Civil Air Patrol?
Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization and the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force. Founded in 1941, CAP has a long history of serving communities through volunteer service, emergency response, and education.
Today, CAP members are civilian volunteers who work together to support important missions while developing leadership skills, gaining valuable experience, and making a difference in the lives of others.
Serve Through Three Important Missions
Every CAP member contributes to one or more of the organization's three congressionally chartered missions:
- Emergency Services - Search and rescue, disaster response, aerial photography, communications, and support for local, state, and federal agencies.
- Aerospace Education - Aviation, STEM, and aerospace education for members, students, and the public.
- Cadet Programs - Leadership development, character development, fitness, and aerospace education for young people.
CAP supports communities nationwide through missions that help save lives, provide critical information during emergencies, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
You Do Not Have to Be a Pilot
Many people think Civil Air Patrol is only for pilots, but most CAP members are not pilots. Aviation experience is welcome, but it is not required.
Members serve in many different roles, including:
- Emergency services
- Aircrew support
- Ground teams
- Communications
- Logistics
- Administration
- Public affairs
- Education and training
- Cadet mentoring
Qualified pilots may receive specialized training for CAP missions, while non-pilots can participate as mission support specialists, observers, scanners, photographers, and other critical team members.
Opportunities for Adults and Youth
Senior Members (Age 18+)
Adults from all backgrounds are encouraged to join. CAP members bring a wide variety of skills and experiences, and every volunteer contribution helps strengthen the mission.
New adult members complete required training, including:
- Level I Orientation
- Cadet Protection Program Training (CPPT)
- Equal Opportunity Training
Adult members also complete a background screening through CAP National Headquarters, including fingerprinting for an FBI criminal history check.
Cadet Members (Ages 12-18)
The CAP Cadet Program helps young people develop leadership skills, confidence, discipline, and teamwork through hands-on experiences.
Cadets participate in activities such as:
- Leadership training
- Aerospace education
- Fitness activities
- Orientation flights
- Emergency services training
- Scholarship and advancement opportunities
Grow Your Skills. Challenge Yourself.
CAP provides opportunities to learn skills that can benefit you personally, professionally, and academically, including:
- Leadership and management
- Search and rescue operations
- Aircrew qualifications
- Ground team operations
- Radio communications
- Incident command operations
- Drone and technology operations
- Professional development opportunities
Be Part of a Team With a Purpose
CAP members share a commitment to four Core Values:
- Integrity
- Volunteer Service
- Excellence in All We Do
- Respect
Members come together from all walks of life with one common goal: serving their communities and helping others.
Affordable Membership
CAP membership is designed to be accessible while providing extensive training and opportunities. Membership dues vary by category and location.
View Current Civil Air Patrol Membership Dues
Additional local squadron dues may apply. Contact Scottsdale Composite Squadron for current local membership fees.
Ready to Join?
Whether you want to serve your community, explore aviation, develop leadership skills, mentor youth, or learn something new, Civil Air Patrol has a place for you.
Complete the contact form below and we will help you learn more about membership and the next steps.
