It’s been an exciting spring break for Cadet Flight Sergeant (FSgt) Brody Gimson, 17 of Campbell River and his fellow cadet pilots at the Regional Cadet Air Operations Pacific in Comox.
Located at 19 Wing Comox, the main focuses for the Spring Gliding is to upgrade their solo glider pilot license to the Front Seat Familiarization rating which allows them to take a passenger during flights.
From March 18-27, Cadets like Gimson participated in Annual Proficiency Checks (APCs) and solo flights to build up to the required 10 hours. Once they reach the required time, they are are evaluated until instructors are fully satisfied with the cadets’ ability to safely fly with a passenger.
Gimson has also been taking other roles during the training that assists with the overall team effort to get all the cadets in the air. It’s a tough – but rewarding – experience for all involved, especially those that have completed their familiarization rating.
Those cadets will continue to the next step which ultimately leads them to be flight instructors.
Lt. Col. Keith Stewart, Regional Cadet Air Operations Officer, says, “The Gliding Program gives a full spectrum of valuable skills to our cadets. They learn responsibility, leadership, citizenship, and the importance of team work.”
Flt. Sgt. Gimson has been a cadet since 2011 and joined because he heard that it looked good on a resume. After achieving his fam pilot rating he plans on taking other cadets up in the glider with him. Gimson explains how cadets has made a difference to him, “The Air Cadet Program has given me the chance to achieve my glider pilot license and build my confidence and leadership skills. It’s nice to be in a place where we all have a common goal.”
The Cadet Program is a national youth development program which aims to grow in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership, promote physical fitness, and stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Forces.
For more information on the Cadets, go to: www.cadets.ca