Program Overview
The Cyber Leader Development Program (CLDP) was established in 2014 to create a framework for cyber-related activities outside the traditional classroom environment. The program develops leadership characteristics necessary for future officers to excel when leading highly technical Soldiers.
Cadets who complete the program are awarded the C1 Skill Identifier. The CLDP framework guides cadets through activities beneficial for professional development and selection by the Cyber Branch while helping the Army identify officers with cyber-related expertise regardless of branch.
Program Goals
The goal of the Cyber Leader Development Program is to create a framework for cyber enrichment and extracurricular opportunities that holistically develop, grow, and inspire emerging Army leaders to succeed in cyberspace.
The program is not specific to the Cyber Branch. It helps build cyber capacity across all Army branches while developing future leaders capable of understanding both the strengths and challenges of the cyber domain.
Cadets who complete the program demonstrate sustained interest in cyber through coursework, projects, conferences, and other developmental activities.
What is the C1 Skill Identifier?
Skill Identifiers (SI) are a component of the Army's officer classification system. These two-character codes identify specialized skills required for specific positions and authorization documents.
SIs designate occupational areas that may not be tied to a single branch but require significant education, training, or experience. Successful completion of the CLDP awards an officer the C1 Skill Identifier for the remainder of their career.
Officer Classification System
Career-Long Identifier
Cyber Expertise Recognition
Professional Development
Additional information is available in DA PAM 611-21 and Officer Skill Identifiers .
Program Requirements
Coursework
Complete a cyber-related major, minor, or qualifying coursework.
Computer Science
Information Technology
Electrical Engineering
Systems Engineering
Mathematics
Cybersecurity
Citizenship
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must be eligible for a Top Secret security clearance
Internship
Participate in a cyber-related internship lasting three weeks or more.
Internships should involve cybersecurity, secure development, network operations, cyber research, or related technical work.
Club Participation
Participate in a cybersecurity club or study group for two academic years.
ACM SIGSAC
Capture the Flag Team
Hacker/Maker Space
Conference Attendance
Attend a multi-day cybersecurity conference or training event.
USENIX
IEEE
ACM
CyCon
Black Hat
DEF CON
Project / Capstone
Participate in a significant cybersecurity project or capstone effort.
Senior Design Project
Cyber Research Project
Club Technical Project
Participation Options
With Mentorship
Recommended for underclassmen.
- PMS emails register.cldp@westpoint.edu
- Provide cadet name, school, major, and graduation date
- Cadet receives access to a cohort of Cyber officers for mentorship and guidance
Without Mentorship
Intended for upperclassmen who already meet the program requirements.
- Complete all CLDP requirements
- Assemble packet documentation
- Submit packet for review and approval
Packet Submission
Cadets who complete CLDP must submit a packet for review and approval.
Skill Identifier Request Worksheet
Download
Packet Checklist
Completed packets must contain all required documentation before submission.
DA-4187
- Block 9 signed by Cadet
- Block 13 signed by PMS (ROTC) or CRC (USMA)
Endorsement Memo
- Signed by PMS (ROTC) or Mentor (USMA)
ASI Request Worksheet
- Block 20.B signed by Cadet
- Block 20.D signed by PMS (ROTC) or CRC (USMA)
Submission Deadline
Completed packets should be submitted to packet.cldp@westpoint.edu no later than 45 days prior to graduation.
The Cadet Progress Chart is not required for packet submission. It is intended as a tool for tracking progress and supporting creation of the endorsement memorandum.
Program Resources
Reference materials and progress tracking tools for cadets participating in the Cyber Leader Development Program.
HRC Notification of Future Change
Official notification establishing the CLDP and C1 Skill Identifier.
View Document
CLDP Information Paper
Program overview, requirements, and implementation guidance.
View Document
ROTC Progress Chart
Track progress toward completion of CLDP requirements for ROTC cadets.
Download Chart
USMA Progress Chart
Track progress toward completion of CLDP requirements for USMA cadets.
Download Chart
Mentorship
Mentorship is a core component of the Cyber Leader Development Program.
USMA Cadets
Cadets attending the United States Military Academy should coordinate mentor assignments through the EECS CRC.
Faculty Mentorship
EECS CRC Support
Career Guidance
ROTC Cadets
ROTC cadets enrolled in CLDP receive access to a cohort of active Cyber officers through the CLDP mentoring network.
Officers are available to answer questions related to the Cyber Branch and may communicate via email, telephone, or virtual meetings.
Active Cyber Officers
Career Mentorship
Virtual Engagement
Questions?
For registration and mentoring questions, contact:
register.cldp@westpoint.edu