There are many benefits in joining the Northside H.S. AFJROTC Program. The most significant benefit is the development of leadership potential and the fulfillment of leadership positions in the corps. JROTC is organized similar to that of an active Air Force Wing with cadets filling the command and staff positions. As the cadets progress in rank and display initiative, more avenues of leadership and positions of responsibility are open to them. Another benefit that goes hand-in-hand with leadership is discipline. By setting a professional military atmosphere, the cadets are exposed to the basic elements of self-discipline along with proper methods of maintaining discipline within small groups.

Leadership – The corps of cadets and the JROTC program is an active, on-going leadership laboratory. Cadets have numerous opportunities to develop and practice leadership skills as they plan, organize, manage, lead and participate in community service projects, field trips, drill competitions, and other corps activities. Leadership responsibilities for upperclassmen include group staff positions or corps event planning.

Perhaps the most notable benefit of completing JROTC is advanced placement upon enlisting the United States Armed Forces. With successful completion of the Air Force JROTC program, a cadet may enter the US Armed Forces with the pay grade of an E-2 (E-3 in special circumstances).

Some other benefits of JROTC are: The opportunity to waive the first year of college ROTC (at the discretion of the detachment commander); a more competitive position from which to apply and receive a four year ROTC scholarship; and more favorable considerations for nominations and appointments to the service academies.

THE JROTC CURRICULUM: The JROTC curriculum is divided into two parts: Aerospace Science and Leadership/Life Skills Education.

Aerospace Science: Covers the heritage, development of flight, and military aerospace policies. Further studies include the environment in which aircraft and spacecraft operate, Flight and navigational principles, and the requirements for human flight are also included. Rocketry, space vehicles, and the exploration of space will also be covered in Aerospace Science. Long term Cadets at NC-948 will emphasize management of the cadet corps. (i.e. cadets practice and develop their leadership and management skills by serving in leadership and staff positions and planning and carrying all corps activities.)

Leadership/Life Skills Education: Leadership education is emphasized each year. Emphasis is placed upon the development of life skills while exposing cadets to opportunities to learn and practice basic leadership. The first year covers attitude, discipline, study habits, customs and courtesies, character development, drill and ceremonies, flag etiquette and teamwork. The second year emphasizes communications skills, effective writing, speaking, listening, understanding individual and group behavior, drill and building teamwork. The third year involves life skills, career planning, applying for college admission, job search, writing a resume, financial planning, career opportunities, and flight drill demonstration. Finally, the fourth year of Leadership Education allows the cadets to practice and develop their leadership and management skills.