NATCON and ARCON
National Conclave (NATCON)
The National Conclave is used as a central means of determining the policies of both Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings. It is the supreme legislative body. NATCON is composed of the National Commander, the Area Commanders, and representatives from each squadron. This Conclave carries out all AAS legislation in accordance with the AAS National Constitution.
NATCON is also an opportunity to amend the AAS National Constitution. If a squadron or area would like to make an amendment, they will sponsor a proposal to do so. However, to make any change official, a two-thirds vote of all the Arnold Air Society’s active squadrons is required. The Rules, Ways, and Means Committee is responsible for handling all rules of procedure applicable to the NATCON and reviewing and consolidating all proposed legislation prior to action by the Conclave committees.
NATCON is where the general assembly of active members has the chance to vote on the incoming National Headquarters, NATCON Headquarters, and the Joint National Project (JNP). The Joint National Project is a year long service project performed by Silver Wings and Arnold Air Society that benefits the national community.
National Awards are also presented at NATCON. These include awards for squadrons of all sizes, and an award for the squadron with the best training program in AAS (LBJ Cup).
NATCON is held once each academic year, traditionally over Easter weekend, at an annually changing location. These conclaves offer a great opportunity to meet other cadets from all over the U.S., to share ideas, and to have a great time.
Area Conclave (ARCON)
Area Conclaves operate in much the same way as NATCON. The school that is chosen to host the Area Conclave (not the Area Headquarters) is responsible for finding lodging, meeting rooms, and entertainment for all AAS members for the weekend of the Conclave, typically during the fall semester. There are registration fees for both the National and Area Conclaves.
At ARCON, the general assembly of active members from that area is given the opportunity to vote on the incoming Area Headquarters, and ARCON Headquarters.
Typically, each squadron is inspected by the Area Commander at ARCON in the form of roundtable discussions. (Note: 11 Area Conclaves, one for each area in the society)