AT EASE with the SEL May 2026
By SMSgt Nicholas Taylor
Senior Enlisted Leader
Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary
Fellow Members,
In my years of service, I’ve often reflected on the bedrock of our organization: our three-fold
mission of Emergency Services, Cadet Programs, and Aerospace Education. While we excel in
our response to crises and the molding of young leaders, it is our third mission, Aerospace
Education (AE) that truly secures our nation’s future. More specifically, I want to talk about our
unique and critical role as Senior Enlisted Leaders in championing this mission.
The Senior Enlisted Leader (SEL) is the primary advisor to the commander on matters
concerning our NCOs and cadets.
We are the stewards of professionalism, the keepers of customs and courtesies, and the mentors
who shape the next generation of leaders. While our duties are broad, our influence is most
profoundly felt through direct mentorship. This is where Aerospace Education comes into play.
The AE mission is not just for Aerospace Education Officers (AEOs); it is a core responsibility for
every member, and one that senior NCOs are perfectly positioned to drive.
Why Aerospace Education Matters
Civil Air Patrol's Aerospace Education program is a national asset. It addresses a critical
shortage of STEM professionals by inspiring youth to pursue careers in aviation, space, and
technology.
With programs ranging from hands-on STEM Kits that explore robotics and rocketry to the
national CyberPatriot competition and Teacher Orientation Program (TOP) flights, CAP
provides unparalleled opportunities.
These programs ensure that our nation remains a global leader in innovation and maintains its air
and space supremacy. Here in the New Jersey Wing—the birthplace of Civil Air Patrol—we
have a rich history of service, from our coastal patrols in World War II to our massive relief
efforts during Hurricane Sandy.
This legacy of excellence must extend to our commitment to AE. We have squadrons actively
participating in CyberPatriot, robotics, and other STEM-focused competitions, proving that our
commitment to the future is as strong as our respect for the past.
The Role of the Non Commissioned Officer:
So, where do we, as Senior Member Non Commissioned Officers, fit in? Our role is to be the
force multiplier.
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Be the Example: Our attitude is infectious. When we show genuine enthusiasm for AE activities;
whether it’s helping cadets build a model rocket, visiting a STEM Kit
demonstration, or simply asking them what they’ve learned from the latest Aerospace
Dimensions module—we validate the importance of the program.
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Facilitate and Mentor: We may not be the primary AEO, but we can and should be the primary facilitators.
We can ensure the AEO has the resources and support they need
from the command. We can mentor the cadet NCOs, guiding them on how to lead an
aerospace activity for younger cadets. Our experience in training and managing personnel
is directly transferable to managing a vibrant AE program within the squadron.
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Connect AE to the Bigger Picture: We have the experience to explain why this matters.
We can connect a lesson on rocketry to the principles of missile defense, a CyberPatriot
competition to the realities of modern warfare, and a lesson in leadership to the
challenges of leading a high-tech team in a dynamic environment. We bridge the gap
between the textbook and the real world.
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Promote Professional Development: We must encourage our fellow senior members,
especially our NCOs, to engage with the AE program. This can be as simple as taking the
Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager Aerospace Education Achievement Award test to familiarize
oneself with the material. A knowledgeable NCO Corps is an effective NCO Corps.
Our duty as Non Commissioned Officers extends beyond the drill pad and the uniform
inspection. It is about preparing our members for the challenges of tomorrow. By actively
championing the Aerospace Education mission, we are not just fulfilling a requirement; we are
investing in our cadets, our communities, and our nation's security.
Let’s get to it!
