Home - Air Cadet League of Canada

Consider joining a unique program where passion meets fun! Young Canadians ages 12 to 18 can participate as an Air Cadet in the Cadet Program. This non-profit program, delivered in partnership with the Canadian Armed Forces, allows youth to thrive and experience valuable life and work skills such as teamwork, leadership and global citizenship. The Air Cadets make up 51% of the Cadet Program and there are over 450 squadrons nationwide – chances are there is a squadron near you!

JOIN THE CADETS

Cadets are part of a movement. Striving and succeeding to empower youth in becoming the leaders of tomorrow is what this program is all about. If you are interested in learning about aerospace, aviation, sports, marksmanship, effective speaking or be exposed to other types of training such as first aid or navigation, this program is for you.

JOIN THE CADETS

Cadets learn what it takes to be a leader and the best part is they get to do it with their peers alongside them. Do you or your child want to learn a new instrument? Perhaps challenge yourself in new and innovative ways, like learning how to fly a plane? In partnership with the Canadian Armed Forces, we here at the ACLC promise to be behind your child’s growth every step of the way. We understand that cost should never be an issue for the growth of our youth and we want to give you an all access-pass to opportunities unlike any other youth organization. There is little to no program costs to you to join this movement!

JOIN THE CADETS

Become a Volunteer
Volunteer Screening

Become a Volunteer

We recognize that this program could not be made possible without the help of many people dedicating their time and effort to the cause! Being a volunteer means giving back to your community and we appreciate all that our volunteers do. From helping at the canteens or special events, to creating newsletters and spreading the word about the exciting events upcoming, there is something for everyone.

JOIN AS A VOLUNTEER

Our Sponsoring Committee Chairs and Screening and Registration Coordinators are responsible for screening and selecting the best volunteers to join our team based on our organizational needs. Our screening practices help fulfill the obligations at the program level but also are committed to ensuring we keep the health and safety of our youth top of mind. There are many ways to get involved and we are excited that you are considering propelling our initiatives forward.

JOIN AS A VOLUNTEER

Make a Donation
Sponsor Highlight

Make a Donation

We are proud to be able to contribute to the development of these young men and women as they become outstanding citizens ready to face the challenges of an ever-changing world. Your financial support helps us enrich the Cadet experience

DONATE TODAY

Major-General (Ret’d) Ken C. Lett has donated $1,020,000 to the Air Cadet League of Canada which represents the largest sum ever donated to the ACL in the history of the League. The purpose of the gift is to support the creation of an academic scholarship fund for air cadets. Specifically, scholarships will be named the “K.C. Lett Scholarships” and will be awarded for postsecondary enrolment in an aviation related program at an accredited educational institution or for continuation flying at a certified flight school. The selection criteria for these awards will include individual performance in the cadet program, secondary school academic performance, and community involvement. Annual disbursements will be based on the annual investment income derived from the fund. Fifty percent (50%) of disbursements will be awarded to air cadets resident in Alberta.

Welcome TO the Air Cadet League of Canada

The Air Cadet League has been in operation since 9 April 1941. We are a proud non-profit whose mission is to promote and encourage the nation’s youth to develop and maintain an interest in aviation, leadership and citizenship, in partnership with the Canadian Armed Forces and other organizations.

With the generous help of sponsors, donors, and volunteers, the Air Cadet League helps provide fun and innovative ways for youth to make a difference in their community all while learning about aviation. Our youth graduate from the air cadet program feeling confident and armed with skillsets that will last them a lifetime.

Our teams are committed to helping youth navigate some of the most formative years in their lives while having fun in the process. Learn more about what we do and what we can offer you with this unique youth experience!

FROM CADETS TO CAE

WHERE COULD THE AIR CADETS TAKE YOU?

At CAE, as a leader in the aerospace industry, we are committed to introducing young minds to the exciting world of aviation careers from an early age. Through our From Cadets to CAE initiative, we’re proud to support Cadets Canada in promoting the endless possibilities available through their youth programs (ages 12-18). Whether you choose a career as a Test Specialist or IT Technologist, a Project Manager or even a CEO, your future in aviation is wide open! Be inspired by real stories of Air Cadet alumni now thriving at CAE. Your journey starts here – learn, grow, and launch your career in aviation with the Air Cadets.

Teodor Matusoiu

Dive into Teodor’s inspiring journey with CAE! As our Global Hardware Engineering Manager, Teodor is the friendly force behind the scenes, managing a team of 30 employees. Watch as he shares how his time in the Air Cadets, as a young immigrant, paved the way for lasting friendships and connections that fueled his passion for aviation.

Marc Parent

Buckle up for an inspiring journey with Marc Parent, CAE’s President and CEO! Did you know Marc got his pilot’s license through the Air Cadets before he could even drive? Now, he’s leading CAE to new heights. Discover how the Cadets played a crucial role in shaping his remarkable career.

Isabelle Cadrin

Meet Isabelle Cadrin, CAE’s Test Specialist and real-life pilot-engineer extraordinaire. As she handles tech flight simulators in stunning locations worldwide, discover how her time in the Air Cadets laid the foundation for her incredible career.

Shawn Balkaran

Meet Shawn Balkaran, CAE’s IT Support Specialist and our very own Maverick of the tech world. Handling confidential information and ensuring planes take off smoothly, Shawn’s story is as thrilling as Top Gun (his favourite movie!).