243 Ogopogo Squadron is a youth organization open to both male and female youth from 12 to 18 years of age.
We offer opportunities that youth would not be able to typically experience in other programs. For example, as an air cadet you are eligible to receive scholarships to become a glider pilot and even receive your private pilots licence. One of the premier aspects of the cadet program is the experience you are able to gain in leadership, time management, self-discipline, physical fitness, professionalism, management and organizational skills. You also have the opportunity upon completion of certain portions of the air cadet program to earn high school credits that can be applied for graduation. Weekly training nights include instruction on citizenship and aviation, physical fitness activities, and unique citizenship trip opportunities. Additionally, 243 Squadron offers a precision drill team, flight simulator training, public speaking, first aid training, musical training in a marching band, and advanced bush survival skills.
One of the most memorable experiences for cadets is the opportunities they have to participate in summer training. Each year cadets have the opportunity to apply for summer training that range in length from 2 weeks to as long as 7 weeks. During cadet’s summer training courses, they have the opportunity to learn and specialize in different parts of the air cadet program in such areas as physical fitness, leadership, survival, aviation, and musicianship. Additionally our senior cadets have the opportunity to seek summer employment at the summer training centers. As well, senior cadets have the opportunity to participate in exchanges to locations around the world from Japan to the Netherlands.
If you are interested in joining the air cadet program in Kelowna, please feel free to visit our Join Us page for details on becoming an air cadet.
Location
243 Ogopogo Squadron is located in Kelowna, BC. Our headquarters are located at the East Kelowna Community Hall.