Canadian Armed Forces Military Personnel Instruction 01/07 – Annexes – Canadian Armed Forces Military Training Programs for Indigenous Peoples of Canada

Annex A – Canadian Armed Forces Indigenous Experience Program

General

1.1 The aim of the Canadian Armed Forces Indigenous Experience Program (CAFIEP) is to facilitate the enrolment of Indigenous Peoples into the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). The aim will be accomplished through providing selected Indigenous applicants the opportunity to explore military career opportunities, prepare for transition into military life and promote CAF Indigenous programs on return to their community. 

Program Description

1.2 CAFIEP is a pre-enrolment unique multi-week program that allows Indigenous participants to experience military training without making a firm commitment to enroll in the Canadian Armed Forces. The program includes exposure to various military occupations, and presentation of various aspects of CAF service as outlined in the QS/TP.

1.3 Military Career Counsellors will discuss possible options for enrolment into the CAF with participants, help determine suitability and eligibility for various career paths and offer concentrated preparation for the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test (CFAT). Career discussions include three elements (Army, Air, and Navy, components (Reg F, Res F) and experience programs for both NCMs and Officers. Upon completion of the CAFIEP, graduates have the opportunity to formally enroll into the CAF to begin basic training with other military recruits.

Eligibility

1.4 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Must not have previously completed a post-enrolment CAFIEP. For applicants who have completed a portion of a previous CAFIEP, may be considered for future serials, on a case-by-case basis.

Participant Options

1.5 CAFIEP participants can choose to proceed with enrolment in the CAF for occupations which they have selected, and for which they have been assessed as suitable. Offers of Enrolment and processing in preparation for the enrolment is subject to current CFRG processing directives (listed in para 7. References). CAFIEP candidates may apply for additional CAFIEP offered by either CMP or the Environmental Commands. Further, participants are also eligible to apply for all Regular and Reserve Force experience programs. If participants choose not to pursue the CAF, their file will be closed.

Accreditation

1.6 Participants may be able to make arrangements with their high school guidance counselor to register their time in the program as career experience credits.

Contact

1. CFRG – Indigenous Recruiting Advisor
2. MPGG – Indigenous Policy Advisor
3. MPGTG – Indigenous Training Desk Officer

Annex B – Canadian Army Indigenous Summer Program – Bold Eagle

General

1.1 First conducted in 1990, Bold Eagle is a CA led post-enrolment program, designed for Indigenous youth mainly in Western Canada (Northern Ontario, the Prairies and BC). The program is conducted in partnership with Indigenous Partners, primarily the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) from SK, and the Aboriginal Veterans Society of Alberta (AVSA). The partners are responsible for attractions throughout the year. Conduct of Culture Week, Powwow, and providing Elders-in-Residence.

Program Description

1.2 Bold Eagle is conducted from early July to late August each year. The recruits are enrolled into the CAF at the beginning of the course and then attend a four-day Culture Week. Upon completion of Culture Week, they commence the Army PRes BMQ.

Eligibility

1.3 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit), residing in Western Canada (from Thunder Bay to the West Coast, including Territories), some exceptions are authorized in case of family heritage;
2. Completed grade 10, based on Provincial/Territorial requirements, or 24 credits of Quebec Secondaire IV. If still completing Grade 10, applicant must send a report card outlining the courses they are taking and their potential to complete them successfully. Proof of successful completion of grade 10 is required before reporting to the program; and
3. Have not previously completed a Reserve or Regular Force BMQ within the five years preceding their application.

Participant Options

1.4 Upon graduation, graduates have the following options:

1. Transfer to an occupation and a P Res Unit (subject to meeting any additional requirements);
2. Component transfer to the Regular Force (Reg F), including ILOY; or
3. Be released (participants who voluntarily leave the program are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 4(c); those who complete the program and wish to be released, are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 5(c). Adverse release items may be considered in cases of discipline issues/unethical conduct.

Note – Candidates who are admitted to the course, but do not complete the course, can still be transferred to a Reserve Unit or to the Reg F, provided the training establishment recommends that the applicant has the potential to be successful in the CAF.

Accreditation

1.5 Successful candidates will receive the Army P Res BMQ, National Qualification AIOY, as well as a Standard First Aid certificate.

1.6 Bold Eagle graduates may be eligible for varying numbers of high school credits in their respective province or territory. These can include equivalencies to a one semester full-time course credit in work experience.

1.7 Graduates are encouraged to consult with their school for potential high school credits.

Contact

1. CFRG Indigenous Recruiting Advisor and/or

Bold Eagle Coord

1. Phone: 780-842-1363 ext. 5158
2. Email: boldeagle@forces.gc.ca

Annex C – Canadian Armed Forces Indigenous Summer Program – Raven

General

1.1 First conducted in 2003, Raven is open to all Indigenous Peoples in Canada who meet the eligibility criteria. The candidates are enrolled in the Naval Reserves. Raven is managed and funded by Military Personnel Generation Training Group (MPGTG) and is conducted by HMCS Venture in Victoria, B.C.

Program Description

1.2 Raven is conducted from early July to late August each year. The recruits are enrolled into the CAF at the beginning of the course and then attend a three-and-a-half-day Culture Week. The Culture Week is led by representation of Indigenous Elders (Métis, First Nation, and Inuit). When the candidates return from Culture Week, they commence a six-week Army Primary Reserve (Army P Res) Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) under the guidance of military instructors. The program incorporates naval components and is comprised of Indigenous cultures and traditions from across Canada. The course includes a day sail onboard a Naval War Ship.

Eligibility 

1.3 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit);
2. Completed grade 10, based on Provincial/Territorial requirements, or 24 credits of Quebec Secondaire IV. If still completing Grade 10, applicant must send a report card outlining the courses they are taking and their potential to complete them successfully. Proof of successful completion of grade 10 is required before reporting to the program; and
3. Have not previously completed a Res F or Reg F BMQ within the five years preceding their application.

Participant Options

1.4 Upon graduation, graduates have the following options:

1. Transfer to an occupation and a P Res Unit (subject to meeting any additional requirements);
2. Component transfer to the Reg F, including ILOY (if found suitable); or
3. Be released (participants who voluntarily leave the program are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 4(c); those who complete the program and wish to be released, are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 5(c).

Note – Candidates who are admitted to the course, but do not complete the course, can still be transferred to a Reserve Unit or to the Reg F, provided the training establishment recommends that the applicant has the potential to be successful in the CAF.

Accreditation

1.5 Successful candidates will receive the Army P Res BMQ, National Qualification AIOY, as well as a Standard First Aid certificate.

1.6 Raven graduates may be eligible for varying numbers of high school credits in their respective province or territory. These can include equivalencies to a one semester full-time course credit in work experience.

1.7 Graduates are encouraged to consult with their school for potential high school credits.

Contact

1. CFRG Indigenous Recruiting Advisor and/or
2. Email: p-esqRaven@forces.gc.ca

Annex D – Canadian Armed Forces Indigenous Summer Program – Black Bear

General

1.1 First conducted in 2008, Black Bear is open to all Indigenous Peoples in Canada who meet the eligibility criteria. The candidates are enrolled in the Primary Reserves. Black Bear is managed and funded by MPGTG and is conducted by 5^th Canadian Division Training Centre at CFB Gagetown, in Oromocto, NB.

Program Description

1.2 Black Bear is conducted from early July to late August each year. The recruits are enrolled into the CAF at the beginning of the course and then attend a three-and-a-half-day Culture Week. The Culture Week is led by representation of Indigenous Elders (Métis, First Nation, and Inuit). When the candidates return from Culture Week, they commence a six-week Army Primary Reserve (Army P Res) Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) under the guidance of military instructors, which includes the integration of Indigenous culture.

Eligibility 

1.3 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit);
2. Completed grade 10, based on Provincial/Territorial requirements, or 24 credits of Quebec Secondaire IV. If still completing Grade 10, applicant must send a report card outlining the courses they are taking and their potential to complete them successfully. Proof of successful completion of grade 10 is required before reporting to the program; and
3. Have not previously completed a Res F or Reg F BMQ within the five years preceding their application.

Participant Options

1.4 Upon graduation, graduates have the following options:

1. Transfer to an occupation and a P Res Unit (subject to meeting any additional requirements);
2. Component transfer to the Reg F, including ILOY; or
3. Be released (participants who voluntarily leave the program are to be released under QR&O 15.01 item 4(c); those who complete the program and wish to be released, are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 5(c).

Note – Candidates who are admitted to the course, but do not complete the course, can still be transferred to a Reserve Unit or Reg F, provided the training establishment recommends that the applicant has the potential to be successful in the CAF.

Accreditation

1.5 Successful candidates will receive the Army P Res BMQ, National Qualification AIOY, as well as a Standard First Aid certificate.

1.6 Black Bear graduates may be eligible for varying numbers of high school credits in their respective province or territory. These can include equivalencies to a one semester full-time course credit in work experience.

1.7 Graduates are encouraged to consult with their school for potential high school credits.

Contact

1. CFRG Indigenous Recruiting Advisor and/or

Black Bear Contact

1. Phone: 506-292-0124
2. Email: p-gag.5tcblackbear@intern.mil.ca

Annex E – Canadian Army Indigenous Summer Program – Grey Wolf

General

1.1 First conducted in 2019, Grey Wolf is a Canadian Army development program for Indigenous Peoples living in Ontario, and who meet the eligibility criteria. To develop relationships with communities and their leaders to increase awareness of the opportunities Canada’s military has to offer. Candidates are recruited and selected for Military training within a reserve context. Training is conducted by the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre, in Meaford ON.

Program Description

1.2 Grey Wolf is conducted from early July to late August each year. Grey Wolf is a development program that is six weeks in duration and consists of formal military training and exposure coupled with a unique Indigenous Culture week. The Culture week is led by representation of Indigenous Elders (Métis, First Nation, and Inuit). When the candidates return from Culture week, they commence a six-week Army Primary Reserve (Army P Res) Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) under the guidance of military instructors, which includes the integration of Indigenous culture.

Eligibility  

1.3 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit);
2. Completed grade 10, based on Provincial/Territorial requirements, or 24 credits of Quebec Secondaire IV. If still completing Grade 10, applicant must send a report card outlining the courses they are taking and their potential to complete them successfully. Proof of successful completion of grade 10 is required before reporting to the program; and
3. Have not previously completed a Res F or Reg F BMQ within the five years preceding their application.

Participant Options

1.4 Upon graduation of the Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) the successful candidate is given the option of:

1. Continue with their current Reserve Unit and military occupational structure identification (MOSID);
2. Transfer to an occupation and a P Res Unit (subject to meeting any additional requirements);
3. Component transfer to the Reg F, including ILOY; or
4. Be released (participants who voluntarily leave the program are to be
5. Released under QR&O 15.01 Item 4(c); those who complete the program and wish to be released, are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 5(c).

Note – Candidates who are admitted to the course, but do not complete the course, can still be transferred to a Reserve Unit or the Reg F, provided the training establishment recommends that the applicant has the potential to be successful in the CAF.

Accreditation

1.5 Successful candidates will receive the Army P Res BMQ, National Qualification AIOY, as well as a Standard First Aid certificate.

1.6 Grey Wolf graduates may be eligible for varying numbers of high school credits in their respective province or territory. These can include equivalencies to a one semester full-time course credit in work experience.

1.7 Graduates are encouraged to consult with their school for potential high school credits.

Contact

4 Cdn Div Grey Wolf Coordinator

1. Phone: 416-633-6200 ext. 5524 or ext. 5120
2. Email - GreyWolf@forces.gc.ca

Annex F – Canadian Army Indigenous Summer Program – Carcajou

General

1.1 Carcajou is a CA-led bilingual Indigenous post-enrolment program. The program was launched in 2019 and is designed to recruit and train admissible Indigenous candidates through a six-week military course. The collaboration between Indigenous communities and the recruiting team is at the foundation of the program's success, working towards the goal of building a strong relationship with Indigenous leaders and communities, with a goal of increasing the participation of Indigenous Peoples within the CAF.

Program Description

1.2 Carcajou is six weeks in duration and is conducted from early July to late August each year, at 2 Division Canadian Army Training Centre (2 Div CA TC), CFB Valcartier. It consists of formal military training and exposure coupled with a unique Indigenous Culture Week. The Culture Week is led by representation of Indigenous Elders (Métis, First Nation, and Inuit). When the candidates return from Culture Week, they commence a six-week Army Primary Reserve (Army P Res) Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) under the guidance of military instructors, which includes the integration of Indigenous culture.

1.3 All interested applicants are processed using either the Army Res F expedited recruiting process or CFRG standard recruiting process and are enrolled into the P Res at either a local Army Reserve unit or the 2 Div CA TC.

Eligibility  

1.4 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit);
2. Completed grade 10, based on Provincial/Territorial requirements, or 24 credits of Quebec Secondaire IV. If still completing Grade 10, applicant must send a report card outlining the courses they are taking and their potential to complete them successfully. Proof of successful completion of grade 10 is required before reporting to the program; and
3. Have not previously completed a Reserve or Reg F BMQ within the five years preceding their application.

Participant Options

1.5 Upon graduation the successful candidate is given the option of:

1. Continue with their current Reserve Unit and military occupational structure identification (MOSID);
2. Transfer to an occupation and a P Res Unit (subject to meeting any additional requirements);
3. Component transfer to the Reg F, including ILOY; or
4. Be released (participants who voluntarily leave the program are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 4(c); those who complete the program and wish to be released, are to be released under QR&O 15.01 Item 5(c).

Note – Candidates who are admitted to the course, but do not complete the course, can still be transferred to a Reserve Unit or the Reg F, provided the training establishment recommends that the applicant has the potential to be successful in the CAF.

Accreditation

1.6 Successful candidates will receive the Army P Res BMQ, National Qualification AIOY, as well as a Standard First Aid certificate.

1.7 Carcajou graduates may be eligible for varying numbers of high school credits in their respective province or territory. These can include equivalencies to a one semester full-time course credit in work experience.

1.8 Graduates are encouraged to consult with their school for potential high school credits.

Contact

1. Carcajou Program Coordinator 
2. Email - carcajou@forces.gc.ca

Annex G – Canadian Defence Academy – Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year

General

1.1 Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year (ILOY) is a Canadian Defence Academy (CDA) program that is open to Indigenous Peoples across Canada and is conducted at The Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, ON.

1.2 The aim of ILOY is to provide Indigenous participants with exposure to the CAF military and academic disciplines within the cultural setting of south-central Canada through a unique service to Canada program. It involves an academic year in a university environment, for educational and leadership experience. The program may also develop potential officers.

1.3 Completion of this specialty training will enable candidates to better determine whether to pursue a military career (Regular Force or Reserve Force) or return to the civilian sector, either to work or to continue with academic studies.

Program Description

1.4 The general intent of the ILOY program is to develop an operationally focused, culturally sensitive, and aware member of the CAF by providing the foundational skills and knowledge inherent for employment within the military. This program is designed to challenge new members of the military and form the first building block necessary to prepare them for their next phase of training. It will also help the participants to build their confidence in their leadership abilities should they decide not to continue in the CAF.

1.5 The ILOY program is based on four Pillars: Academic, Military, Physical Fitness, and Culture.

1.6 Candidates may request to withdraw from the program at any point in the year. At the end of the year, those candidates who successfully complete the program are granted the Basic Military Officer Qualification (BMOQ) Mod 1, if they continue with the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP), and BMQ, if they choose to become NCMs in the CAF.

1.7 As part of the program, candidates will be enrolled and posted to RMC for one academic year as an Officer Cadet in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). During this time, they will be paid commensurate with their rank level, and they will receive free tuition and books. Candidates may request to leave the program at any time.

1.8 The ILOY program includes:

1. Sports
2. Field trips
3. Leadership development
4. Military training
5. Cultural support activities

Tailored Learning Plans

1.9 Through meetings with a dedicated Indigenous academic advisor, candidates will take part in individual and small group tutorials for pre-university (non-credit) and first-year university courses. If an individual requires an accommodation, they must inform the academic staff and all efforts will be made to ensure academic accommodation is provided.

Eligibility

1.10 In addition to the eligibility criteria outlined in para 5 of the main document, the following are additional criteria for this program:

1. Be an Indigenous person (First Nation {Status or Non-Status}, Métis, or Inuit);
2. Must complete the ILOY Questionnaire which includes a declaration;  
3. All applicants under the age of 18 must obtain consent from a parent or legal guardian to participate in this exciting opportunity unless entry into ILOY is through a Component Transfer (CT); and
4. Must possess the following:
   1. a secondary school graduation certificate or an equivalency certificate based on education equivalency testing;
   2. in final year of secondary school, with a letter from the school administration confirming that the applicant is expected to graduate at the end of the current academic year; or
   3. the subsequent Graduation certificate must be submitted to the respective Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre (CFRC) before ILOY commences.

Participant Options

1.11 At any time during or at the end of the academic year, candidates can:

1. apply to continue at RMC in a degree program as an Officer Cadet (OCdt)/Naval Cadet (NCdt), under the ROTP;
2. Serve in the CAF as a NCM within the P Res or Reg F;
3. Serve in the CAF as an officer within the P Res or Reg F in an available program (i.e. Reserve Entry Scheme)
4. Officers [RESO] for P Res or Continuing Education Officer Training Plan [CEOTP] for Reg F); or
5. if pursuing a career in the CAF is not the candidate’s preference, they will have the option to be released under QR&O 15.01 item 5(c).

Accreditation

1.12 Any university credits gained in the year, may be transferred to another university or college, if the gaining University or College determines that credits can be transferable. The decision regarding which credits can be transferred rests with the respective receiving institution.

Contact

1. CFRG Diversity Recruiting Advisor
2. CDA Indigenous Advisor