Summer Encampment

July 1, 2025

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. -- Summer Encampment 2025 is more than just a camp—it’s a launchpad for leadership, confidence, and connection. Each year, hundreds of cadets from across California step into a truly hands-on learning environment, where leadership is practiced, not just taught. Through courses like SCUBA, firefighting, medical training, and marksmanship, cadets build real-world skills while forming friendships that last well beyond the summer. Many of these programs also offer industry-recognized certifications, helping students leave camp not just motivated—but qualified. What makes this experience even more powerful is its reach: CACC Summer Encampment brings together students from all backgrounds, offering an inclusive, structured, and inspiring space where they unplug from their screens, engage with purpose, and grow as leaders.

I am a proud Alumnus of the California Cadet Corps. As a former cadet myself, I’ve experienced firsthand how this program shapes young people into confident, capable leaders. The skills I learned—self-discipline, teamwork, public speaking, and resilience—have stayed with me well beyond high school. Today’s cadets are preparing not just for college or careers, but to become agents of change and leaders of character in their schools, communities, and beyond.

To the public affairs team behind Summer Encampment 2025—thank you for using your lenses to find the moments of courage, connection, and leadership that define our cadets and tell the story of who we are. I could not have done it without you!

Capt. James Colbert - Executive Director, Heroes Linked
1st Lt. Jennifer Brofer - Marine Corps Veteran / Journalist
Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Lapid - Marine Corps Veteran / Filmmaker
Sgt. Kevin Nguyen - Filmmaker / Photographer / Editor

- Capt. Zak Lara
CA Cadet Corps
Public Affairs OIC