USAC Civilians

Much like the Army, civilians serve a critical role within USAC.  Many positions throughout the Corps can be filled by civilian professionals.  As a result, appointment as a USAC Civilian may be granted to individuals who wish to participate in USAC activities in a non-military capacity as a civilian.   Though not part of the USAC Officers' Corps, civilians at the natioal and local levels are key to USAC's success. 

There are two categories of USAC Civilians:

Civilian Executive (CE):  Civilian Executives are professionals who possess well-honed executive skills and share a broad perspective of military and business skills which are of value to the USAC.  CEs typically have advanced degrees, or extensive professional experience (ten or more years) in business, technical or educational disciplines.  CEs are appointed by the CG, USAC and are eligible to assume any position within USAC, except for operational command.  Only a CE may serve as the Civilian Executive Officer of a unit.

Civilian Instructors (INST):  Civilian Instructors are civilians who provide a multitude of skills to USAC at all levels.  This category of membership is extremely flexible in its requirements and is perfectly suited for parents and other individuals with specific skills.  INSTs are eligible to be assigned as S1, S4 or S5 within a unit.  

The application process is not as intensive as required for commissioning or appointment.  USAC Civilians have no military authority over any member of the USAC.   USAC Civilians may not provide training to Cadets on military-specific topics, such as Drill and Ceremony or guard duty, regardless of their past military background.  

Appointment as a Uniformed Instructor may be granted to active, reserve and retired members of the Armed Forces who do not desire an appointment or USAC commission, yet who wish to participate in USAC activities without responsibilities as a member of the chain of command.  The application process is not as intensive as required for commissioning or appointment.  Uniformed Instructors may not be placed in authority over other members of the Officers’ Corps or NCO Corps and may not be assigned to a permanent position.  

Uniformed Instructors are not eligible for permanent command of a unit. They may only serve in temporary and limited assignments within a unit. They may not serve as a Detachment Officer-in-Charge for more than 180 days.  Uniformed instructors who wish to be more active, and assume a greater level of responsibility within the USAC, should apply for a commission or appointment as a sworn member of the USAC Officers’ Corps or NCO Corps. 

Uniformed instructors will be addressed and referred to in documentation by their active duty, reserve or retired rank.