Location
Camp Swift
Training Area 2
McDade, Texas
RCLS Staff Applications
Southwest Region Cadet Programs
2026 Southwest Region Cadet Leadership School
Civil Air Patrol’s premier advanced cadet leadership experience.
Civil Air Patrol has been training cadets in leadership since the 1950s, and Region Cadet Leadership School represents the capstone leadership experience for cadets across the nation.
About the Program
What is RCLS?
The Region Cadet Leadership School (RCLS) is Civil Air Patrol’s premier advanced leadership training experience for cadets. Designed for cadets who have demonstrated strong performance and commitment within the Cadet Program, RCLS focuses on developing advanced leadership skills, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical exercises, and collaborative problem-solving, cadets gain the tools needed to lead with confidence at the squadron, group, and wing levels.
Participants engage with experienced instructors and peers from across the region, creating a dynamic learning environment that challenges them to grow both personally and professionally.
RCLS builds leadership competence while fostering teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and a deeper understanding of advanced cadet leadership responsibilities.
Event Information
School Details
Dates
December 26, 2026
through
January 1, 2027
Registration
Applications and event registration are processed through Registration Zone.
Open Registration Zone
Eligibility Requirements
Region Cadet Leadership School is designed for motivated Civil Air Patrol cadets who have demonstrated strong performance and leadership potential.
Must Have Completed Encampment
Competitive Selection Process
Leadership Potential Required
Strong Cadet Performance
Maturity & Professionalism
Commitment to the Cadet Program
Applicants typically hold a cadet officer grade or are preparing to assume higher leadership responsibilities.
Program Focus
RCLS emphasizes advanced leadership development beyond the squadron level through classroom instruction, guided discussion, and hands-on leadership exercises.
Leadership Theory & Application
Effective Communication
Public Speaking
Team Dynamics
Problem Solving
Ethical Decision-Making
Cadets prepare for advanced leadership responsibilities at the group, wing, and region levels.
Cadet Cadre Opportunities
The activity is currently accepting applications for cadet staff positions supporting the execution and leadership of the school.
Cadet Commandant
Executive Officer
Instructor
Support Staff
Cadet Cadre Eligibility
- Must have completed RCLS
- Minimum grade of C/2d Lt at time of application
Application Deadlines
31 May 2026
Commandant
Executive Officer
Instructor Applications
14 June 2026
All Other Cadet Staff Positions
Due to the competitive nature of the program, only a limited number of staff positions are available.
Senior Member Staff Opportunities
Senior Members are invited to apply to support the activity in a variety of leadership and operational staff roles.
Supervision & Mentorship
Curriculum Support
Operational Support
Safety Oversight
Leadership Development
Cadet Mentorship
Requirements
- Completion of TLC Basic prior to the event
Prior experience is recommended but not required.
How to Apply
To be considered for participation, applicants must complete both of the following steps:
- Register for the event through Registration Zone
- Submit the appropriate application:
- Cadet Staff Application
- Senior Staff Application
Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Important Information
To ensure data security and maintain a single source of truth, all specific logistics — including dates, locations, packing lists, and fees — are hosted exclusively within Registration Zone.
Questions?
Contact the RCLS Team
For additional information regarding the 2026 Southwest Region Cadet Leadership School, contact the activity staff.