The Air Force ROTC Detachment 590 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a notable history of excellence and recognition. Established in 1947, the same year the U.S. Air Force was founded, the detachment has been an integral part of the university’s commitment to developing future Air Force leaders.
Det 590 is considered a “Small Detachment” by AFROTC which means you really get to know your fellow cadets and get direct mentorship from Cadre. The training is unparalleled. It’s also a great way to get more involved, quicker. For example, freshmen routinely hold formal positions in the Cadet Wing meaning you will be empowered to impact your unit from the start. Furthermore, you will having many more opportunities in Color Guard, Arnold Air Society, and for trips across the US! You can’t find those opportunities anywhere else.
The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is a college program that prepares students to become commissioned officers in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. It combines academic coursework, leadership training, and physical fitness to develop future military leaders.
Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders One Cadet At A Time
ROTC is one of the primary pathways to becoming an officer in the U.S. military. Cadets who successfully complete the program and meet all requirements are commissioned as second lieutenants upon graduation.
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The first two years, focusing on foundational military knowledge, leadership principles, and Air Force history.
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A rigorous training program held in the summer between sophomore and junior year, designed to assess leadership potential and military skills.
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The final two years, involving advanced leadership training, command roles within the cadet wing, and preparation for active duty service.
AFROTC is a commissioning program designed to develop cadets into active-duty Air Force Officers with a 4-year service obligation. Cadets must meet physical fitness standards, maintain strong academic performance, and commit to serving upon commissioning.
Cadet training takes place every Tuesday and Thursday, starting early in the morning with an hour of physical training (PT). Following PT, cadets head to their Air Force ROTC classes: Aerospace Studies on Tuesday and Leadership Lab (LLAB) on Thursday.
AFROTC is designed to balance academic education, military training, and leadership development.
Physical Training (PT) is an essential part of ROTC, designed to ensure cadets meet and maintain Air Force fitness standards. Activities include running, strength training, and group workouts to build endurance, discipline, and teamwork.
Leadership Laboratory (LLAB) is a hands-on training component of ROTC, where cadets practice leadership, military customs, drill and ceremony, and teamwork. It is designed to develop skills necessary for future Air Force officers.
Cadets in the program take Aerospace Studies each semester, a course that evolves alongside their development as future officers. Early lessons focus on the fundamentals of the Air Force and Space Force, while later coursework dives into leadership strategies, military operations, and national defense policy. This class equips cadets with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to lead effectively in a military environment.
Meet our Cadre at Det 590! These active-duty officers and enlisted personnel serve as leaders, teachers, and mentors to our cadets, guiding them to succeed in AFROTC while gaining insight into life in the ‘Big Air Force.’ Their daily responsibilities include managing cadet records, identifying leadership development opportunities, and overseeing training.
