Castlegar’s Colin Gold has been developing his confidence and leadership skills that will last a lifetime.
Gold was hoping to learn how to improve his drill and leadership skills when he was selected to attend the Drill and Ceremonial Instructor Course this summer.
He was then selected among only 95 cadets from across B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northwest Territories. These courses are held at the Albert Head Cadet Training Centre, near Victoria.
Gold, 16, is from 581 Air Cadet Squadron in Castlegar. He has been a cadet for four years. He attends Stanley Humphrey Secondary School and enjoys hiking, camping and the outdoors outside of the Cadet Program.
This summer Gold is attending the six-week Drill and Ceremonial Instructor Course which teaches cadets to be confident leaders, capable instructors and strong team players. In addition to leadership and instruction skills, the cadets participated in sports activities, community service projects at Fort Rodd Hill and East Sooke Park, observed the Ceremony of the Flags at the Legislature and were certified in First Aid.
Gold beamed about his experiences and feels honoured to have been selected for this training. On-the-job training, seeing a naval ship for the first time and the travel opportunities are some of the most memorable experiences, according to Gold. He plans to take his new leadership confidence back to his home squadron and lead and train the younger cadets.
“Joining cadets is one of the best decisions, doors open up, like job interviews and travelling places. I come for the fun and the bond that we have as cadets is like family, they are my brothers and sisters,” said Gold.
More than 3,400 Sea, Army and Air Cadets are participating in summer training activities across B.C. this summer. Other cadets have had the opportunity to travel across the country and even overseas. To find out more about the Cadet Program visit www.cadets.ca or follow us on Twitter @BC_Cadets.