Great Lakes Division Programs

Drill Activities form the foundation of our Sea Cadets program at Great Lakes Division. Cadets practice leadership, followership, and coordination while learning the importance of discipline and mutual respect. These activities help youth build confidence and responsibility in a supportive environment and prepare them for success in school, future careers, advanced maritime training and leadership roles.

Color Guard is a ceremonial unit that presents and safeguards the United States flag and Navy colors at parades, ceremonies, and community events. Through precise movements and synchronized drill, cadets represent the Navy’s traditions of honor, discipline, and respect.

Participation in Color Guard is a meaningful responsibility that builds confidence, teamwork, and pride—while allowing cadets to serve as visible ambassadors of the Sea Cadets program in their community.

Our cadets are trained to be strong both mentally and physically. Physical training is an important part of the USNSCC program, with age-appropriate fitness standards designed to promote health, endurance, and confidence. Training sessions include activities such as running, push-ups, sit-ups, planks, and other exercises that build strength and resilience in a safe, supportive environment.

Cadets are introduced to hands-on STEM learning through real-world maritime engineering experiences. Training includes engine room operations, basic engine and generator maintenance, and understanding how ship systems work together. These activities build problem-solving skills, technical curiosity, and confidence while exposing cadets to engineering and skilled trades in a practical, engaging environment..

This practical STEM experience helps spark interest in engineering, technology, and maritime careers while reinforcing safety and discipline

Seamanship is at the core of what we do at Great Lakes Division. Cadets learn practical maritime skills through hands-on training aboard a real vessel, including basic navigation, line handling, watchstanding, and shipboard safety. Through structured ship operations training, cadets develop responsibility, teamwork, and confidence while learning how a vessel functions as a coordinated team. These experiences help cadets build leadership skills and situational awareness that carry over into school, careers, and everyday life.

Great Lakes Division cadets have the unique opportunity to participate in underwater research and exploration focused on the Great Lakes, made possible through our partnership with the Noble Odyssey Foundation. Through guided research projects, hands-on training, and supervised diving activities, cadets learn about freshwater ecosystems, maritime history, and the importance of protecting our local waterways.

This program is designed to help young people discover their passion for science, conservation, and exploration while building real-world skills and a deeper understanding of the Great Lakes and the communities that depend on them.

reat Lakes Division offers cadets a rare opportunity to participate in a structured SCUBA diving program for teens, delivered in partnership with the Noble Odyssey Foundation. Cadets may pursue PADI certification while learning safe diving practices, underwater awareness, and environmental responsibility. Training emphasizes confidence, discipline, and teamwork, with opportunities to explore underwater photography, wreck diving, and Great Lakes-focused aquatic studies as cadets progress.

All diving activities follow strict safety standards and are supervised by certified instructors, ensuring a positive and age-appropriate learning experience.

In addition to local training, Great Lakes Division cadets have the opportunity to attend advanced training programs and camps across the country. These immersive trainings focus on leadership, seamanship, STEM, and personal responsibility, giving cadets the chance to learn new skills, experience different environments, and work alongside peers from other units. Participation is optional but highly encouraged for cadets looking to challenge themselves and grow beyond regular drills.

Cadets take part in community service projects and enrichment activities that connect learning to the real world. Guest speakers from fields such as the Coast Guard, firefighting, and maritime professions share their experiences, while trips to museums and special sites enhance cadets’ understanding of service, history, and career possibilities.

These experiences help cadets broaden their perspective, build confidence, and discover interests they may not have encountered elsewhere.