Overview

The Cadet SCUBA Unit is an advanced, safety-driven course designed for high school cadets who wish to earn an entry-level recreational scuba certification while operating within a disciplined, military-style training environment. Cadets receive academic, confined-water, and open-water instruction aligned with PADI Open Water Diver standards, including dive physics and physiology, equipment configuration and maintenance, dive planning, buoyancy control, underwater communication, navigation, and emergency procedures. Training emphasizes risk management, situational awareness, teamwork, and strict adherence to checklists and safety protocols while functioning as a cohesive dive team. Participation is limited and selective due to safety, equipment, and instructor constraints.

Upon successful completion of all academic, confined-water, and open-water requirements, cadets will earn the Cadet SCUBA Badge and a PADI Open Water Diver certification.

Prerequisites:

• Cadets must be at least 15 years old
• Pass a Swim Test consisting of a 200 meter continuous swim without stopping
• 10-minute water tread
• Obtain medical clearance in accordance with PADI standards

Requirements for Successful Completion

• Cadets must successfully complete all required pre-course academics, watermanship assessments, and safety briefs prior to open-water dives

Point of Contact

The POC for the scuba unit is CPT Ryan Smith at ryan.smith@cacadets.org