FAQ Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC)

Q: What is the Cadet Instructors Cadre?
A: The Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) is a sub-component of the Canadian Forces Reserves. It is composed of officers whose primary duties are the supervision, training and administration of more than 60,000 Sea, Land and Air cadets across Canada.

Q: Who can join as an officer in the Cadet Instructors Cadre?
A: The Canadian Forces is an equal opportunity employer. Men and women of Canadian citizenship may apply. Landed immigrants may also be considered in certain circumstances.

In addition, applicants must also:

• Be of good character and in good standing in the community.
  
• Be recommended by the Commanding Officer, the sponsor and the appropriate League representative associated with the cadet unit filling a vacancy.
  
• Be a minimum age of 18 and able to complete at least one year of service before reaching the CIC compulsory retirement age of 65 years.
  
• Meet the Canadian Forces medical standards.
  
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent. In exceptional circumstances, an applicant with less education but with unique qualifications and work history may apply.

Q: I am over 40 years old, have no previous military experience, and would like to do something useful, in particular help youth. Is there a place for me?
A: Some of our most successful officers have joined us only after their family or work-related obligations were met. Others have taken early retirement and are seeking an interesting and challenging opportunity. The training you will receive is not physically demanding, but you must be in good mental and physical health.

If you are young at heart and up to a challenge, there may be a unique opportunity for you in the CIC.

Q: How do I join?
A: The joining process is simple. Once you have the recommendation of the cadet corps/squadron Commanding Officer, the sponsor and the League representative, you will be contacted by the local Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre for an appointment.

In order to process your application, the Centre will require your birth certificate and Social Insurance card, a transcript of your school marks and any special certificates or licenses that you may hold. You will undergo a medical examination and a suitability interview. Recruiting Centre personnel will also initiate a security screening, which comprises a criminal record check and a credit check.

Be prepared in order to avoid delays and repeated trips to the Centre. If you meet the qualifications, you will be approved for enrollment in the unit you have chosen.

Q: What training will I receive?
A: Your training begins once you are enrolled. You will be required to attend and successfully complete a Basic Officer Qualification course held at one of the many Regional Cadet Instructor Schools. This is a 10-day course that can be taken consecutively or over several weekends, depending on your availability.

During the course, you will be introduced to basic officer skills relating to the training of Cadets, military writing, dress and deportment, drill, laws and regulations as they apply to CIC officers, and military ethics and ethos. The course will also focus on the element you have chosen (Sea, Land or Air).

Q: Will I wear a uniform?
A: Yes. A Canadian Forces uniform, in the colour and style of the element you will work with, will be provided to you at no cost. Uniform items will be replaced due to normal wear. All items must be returned when you leave the CIC.

Q: Can I resign at any time?
A: Yes. You may request a release at any time; however, a 30-day notice is required.

Q: How much time must I commit to the CIC?
A: You are asked to commit approximately six hours per week and at least one weekend per month. As you develop your new skills and are promoted, you may be required to dedicate more time to your unit.

Q: Will I get paid?
A: Yes. You are entitled to receive up to 21 days pay per year for unit training. If you are selected to attend additional courses or are employed at a Summer Training Centre you will also receive remuneration.

Q: What are the advantages of being a cadet instructor?
A: The training and experience you will receive as a cadet instructor will also prove beneficial in your civilian life. Your enhanced skills will include:

• Personnel management
  
• Resource management
  
• Teaching/training skills
  
• Conflict resolution
  
• Skills necessary to perform under difficult situations
  
• Sense of responsibility

These skills will prove very interesting to a prospective employer.

As well, CIC will allow you to:

• Participate in the training of our youth and future leaders of our country
  
• Be part of a dynamic and interesting organization
  
• Learn about and participate in recreational activities (camping, sailing and flying…)
  
• Take part in citizenship activities
  
• Travel
  
• Make new friends

Q: Will I be eligible for promotions?
A: Yes. Promotions are based on a combination of ability, position availability, completion of required courses, length of service and commitment to the Canadian Cadet Movement.

Q: What if I relocate?
A: There are hundreds of cadet corps/squadrons across the country to which you may transfer. If a unit in your new geographic location does not have an immediate vacancy, you may be required to place your name on a unit waiting list. You can also request to be held on the supplementary reserve list until a position becomes available at another unit.

Q: Does anything happen in the summer months when cadets are on holidays?
A: A vast majority of cadets go to Summer Training Centres across Canada. For those interested, this creates employment opportunities for instructors for periods of six to eight weeks.

Q: How do I get additional information?
A: Call the Recruiting Centre at 1-800-856-8488 for the unit nearest you. Visit the website at www.vcds.dnd.ca/cic