Cadet program returns to face-to-face training in the Okanagan – Vernon News

Simon Dufresne acquired lifelong skills during his seven years in the cadet program.

And you could also do it now that groups of cadets have been allowed to resume training in person, with COVID security protocols in place.

Vernon’s man enlisted with the 63 Kalamalka Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps when he was just 12, and he would recommend cadets to anyone.

“The cadet program has taught me the leadership and skills you need to really focus when you are on the job or when you are focusing on your career,” says Dufresne.

“All of these things help me be successful in the future outside of the cadet program. “

During his time with the cadets, Dufresne learned leadership, teamwork, navigation and “all kinds of skills that would prepare me for my late teens and my adult life.”

He says he gained self-confidence, fitness, a healthy lifestyle and other skills that “have helped me prepare for my adult life because these are experiences that people really can’t. live nowhere else in a safe, but nurturing environment ”.

Dufresne is currently a Red Seal apprentice in culinary arts.

He finished the cooking class at the top of his class in 2018 and traveled to Italy with his instructor and other students to cook a Thanksgiving dinner at a hotel there.

After being reduced to mostly online training for more than a year due to the COVID pandemic, the cadet movement is returning to regular training.

Groups like the 1,705 Vernon Army Cadets and the 223 Red Lion Air Cadets prepare to resume in-person training.

Cadets must be at least 12 years old to register.

For more information on cadets and to register, Click here.