53 Summer 2025 Proceedings ensure that anyone with a passion for maritime service can engage with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, no matter their geographic location. RCU students receive mentorship and virtual train- ing, participate in local auxiliary flotillas, and have the opportunity to attend events in person. This setup ensures that the AUP remains accessible to a broader range of students, including those studying online or attending smaller colleges and universities. Why Joining is Helpful Participation in these programs offers significant advan- tages for those considering a career with the Coast Guard. Whether enlisting or commissioning, candidates who have completed a JROTC or AUP program are often seen as having an edge over other applicants. In fact, statistics show that applicants with prior experience in programs like these are more likely to be accepted into officer candidate programs and are better prepared for the rigors of Coast Guard training. According to Coast Guard recruiting data, histori- cally AUP graduates have a 70% acceptance rate through a commissioning program versus college graduates with no AUP involvement. More recently that has increased to approximately 88%. This preparation extends beyond military service with many program participants suc- ceeding in civilian jobs that require leadership, technical skills, and a commitment to public service. In addition to professional skills, cadets and univer- sity students gain a sense of discipline and responsi- bility that serves them well in any field. The leadership development, maritime knowledge, and community engagement they experience through JROTC and AUP are transferable to any career, particularly in industries related to maritime operations, environmental protec- tion, emergency response, and law enforcement. Conclusion The CGJROTC at Barnstable High School and the AUP units throughout the Northeast District represent a pow- erful investment in the future of the Coast Guard. These programs not only equip young people with the knowl- edge and skills they need to serve, but also instill values that will guide them through their careers in uniform or the private sector. As these initiatives continue to grow, they will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in shap- ing the Coast Guard’s leadership pipeline. For students and college-aged individuals with a passion for public service, maritime safety, and leadership, there has never been a better time to join the ranks of the Coast Guard’s future leaders. About the authors: CAPT Richard Schultz, recently retired after 31 years in the Coast Guard, now serves as senior maritime science instructor for the Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at Barnstable High School in Hyannis, Massachusetts. His career, which included roles as Northeast District chief of prevention, commander of Sector South- eastern New England, and Strike Team commanding officer, was marked by leadership in safety, environmental health, emergency response, and crisis management. Now, he is focused on mentoring the next generation of Coast Guard leaders. CDR Mason Wilcox, the prevention department head at Sector Southeastern New England, has dedicated 20 years to marine inspections, investi- gations, and waterways safety. A 2004 graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, he was com- missioned through the Maritime Academy Gradu- ate program and continues to play a key role in upholding the Coast Guard’s missions in the region. LT Collin Batchelor is an Auxiliary University Pro- grams (AUP) graduate and volunteers as the Mas- sachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) AUP unit officer. After attending MMA, he earned his direct commission through the Maritime Academy Grad- uate program and has served six years as a marine inspector at Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur, Texas, and Sector Southeastern New England. He is cur- rently attending the University of Rhode Island for the marine engineering advanced education post- graduate program. Auxiliarist Russ Gasdia serves on Coast Guard Auxiliary National Staff in the Auxiliary Univer- sity Programs (AUP) Division as deputy division chief and operations manager. He also serves as the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Auxiliary Unit liaison for the campus AUP Unit. He has been a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary for 17 years. Cadets salute during the commissioning ceremony of the Coast Guard Junior ROTC unit at Barnstable High School in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer Richard Brahm
