North Carolina Wing Develops Cadet Programs Leaders Through TLC Intermediate Training
By: Lt. Col. Daniel Guadalupe, CAP
Asst. Director of Cadet Programs, North Carolina Wing
North Carolina Wing strengthened its Cadet Programs leadership cadre Sept. 5 by conducting a successful Training Leaders of Cadets (TLC) Intermediate course at Wing Headquarters. The event brought together six master-rated Cadet Programs officers serving as instructors and 15 senior member students representing squadrons from across the Wing.
TLC Intermediate is Civil Air Patrol's premier course for adult volunteers preparing to lead a squadron's Cadet Program. Through discussion-based learning and practical application, participants explored methods for mentoring cadets, exercising positive indirect leadership, supporting cadets facing unique circumstances and understanding activity opportunities that enhance cadet development.
According to Capt. Elaine Kaempf, North Carolina Wing Director of Cadet Programs, the course demonstrated the dedication of adult leaders to continually improving the cadet experience. “It was great to see so many senior members coming together from across the Wing to get a more in-depth look into cadet programs. Having a solid working relationship with cadets is what will continue to allow North Carolina to lead the way.”
The course's collaborative environment encouraged participants to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges, and share best practices for building healthy squadron cultures and effective cadet leadership teams. Through facilitated discussions and scenario-based learning, students gained practical tools they can immediately implement in their home units.
For instructor Lt. Col. Jeff Focke, the most rewarding aspect of the training was seeing experienced volunteers actively engage in conversations about strengthening local cadet programs. “I always enjoy participating in TLC courses and leading sessions to educate, train and equip our senior members to put forward a first-class cadet program in our squadrons,” Focke said. “I especially enjoy when those senior members lean in and positively engage on the best ways to enhance our program. I am excited to see what these senior members will take back to their units and develop into an even more robust cadet experience.”
Students also highlighted the value of learning from both instructors and fellow Cadet Programs leaders from across North Carolina Wing. “I really enjoyed the TLC Intermediate course and found it very helpful for my role as Deputy Commander for Cadets,” said 1st Lt. Kristen Duchac. “The instructors were very engaging and it was valuable to discuss real-world challenges and share ideas with other senior members. I left with greater confidence, useful resources, and ideas I can immediately apply in my squadron.”
The training supports North Carolina Wing's commitment to developing qualified adult leaders capable of delivering safe, engaging, and meaningful cadet experiences. Courses such as TLC Intermediate help ensure squadrons have knowledgeable leaders prepared to mentor cadets and manage successful squadron-level programs.
North Carolina Wing Commander Col. Brendan Kearns praised the staff and students for their commitment to professional development and cadet success. “Congratulations to the staff and students of the Intermediate Training Leaders of Cadets course held at Burlington Headquarters. The course was a tremendous success, bringing together senior members from across the Wing to strengthen their leadership skills and enhance their ability to mentor and develop our cadets,” Kearns said. “The commitment shown by everyone involved reflects the professionalism and dedication that continues to make North Carolina Wing’s Cadet Program one of the strongest in Civil Air Patrol. North Carolina leads the way.”
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Lt. Col. Daniel Guadalupe, CAP
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