The Ranger Staff Cadet Program has been in existence since 1960. As the Hawk Mountain Ranger School expanded and developed it became evident that there was a need for quality, consistent training of cadet leaders for the program. Since the first staff cadets began serving at Hawk Mountain, they have played an important part in the development and success in all areas of the Emergency Services program within Civil Air Patrol.

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The staff cadet training program consists of a combination of online modules and in-person training weekends. Strict military courtesy and discipline are adhered to as the candidate progresses from a follower to a leader. The training is designed to challenge cadets in the areas of leadership, teamwork, and emergency services training.  Physical fitness, progression in the program, dedication, self-discipline, and proficiency in ground team and ranger skills are required.

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Throughout the training, staff candidates are trained in the areas of navigation, woodsmanship, search theory and techniques, health and sanitation, rock climbing, rappelling, low angle rescue, search procedures, crash site security, communications, survival skills, teaching techniques, intense leadership classes, conflict resolution, leadership traits, problem-solving, public speaking, time management, team leadership, job role responsibilities, and much more. Subjects are further supplemented with constant leadership development which gives on-the-job training and experience for the role the staff candidate will later fulfill; that of a professional leader and instructor for the ranger program.

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Successful completion of the training cycle and qualification requirements will earn the first-year basic candidate the "Yellow Scarf."  These first-year cadets typically fill the positions of Team Commanders (similar to flight commanders) for the school.

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Cadets then return for the second year of staff training, where they further develop their leadership and command skills and learn management and staff development skills as well. In addition, they further their training in search and rescue and the ranger program. With successful completion of the requirements the "Orange Scarf" is awarded, making them a full-fledged Ranger Staff member.

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These cadets often return for further training in their third year, and also support and train the upcoming staff candidates. Thus each year, the staff cadet learns more and more about search and rescue, leadership, and management.