06/10/2026
Major Karen Padgett has been selected as the next Alaska Wing Commander of the Civil Air Patrol. She will be responsible for CAP operations in Alaska, overseeing more than 800 members across 15 statewide units. Her vision for Alaska Wing CAP is to be a safe and effective non-profit that continues to earn the public trust as the best place to lead and to serve.
Major Padgett first joined Civil Air Patrol in 1999 and served as a mission scanner and observer. She rejoined CAP in 2018 when her youngest son turned 12, helping establish the Lake Hood Cadet Squadron, then serving as its commander from 2020 to 2023. Major Padgett also previously served as the Alaska Wing’s Director of Cadet Programs from 2021 to 2024. She currently serves as a CAP Volunteer University Instructor, Wing Character Development Instructor, and Activity Director for the Alaska Wing National Flight Academy.
“Congratulations to Major Karen Padgett on her selection as the next Alaska Wing Commander,” said Col. Brett Dolnick, Pacific Region Commander. “Major Padgett brings a wealth of experience in cadet programs, leadership development, and organizational
excellence. Alaska Wing is gaining a thoughtful and dedicated leader whose collaborative approach and commitment to developing leaders will benefit not only Alaska Wing but the entire Pacific Region. I look forward to working with Major Padgett as we continue to share ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen our ability to serve our members, communities, and Air Force partners across the region.”
Major Padgett worked as an environmental engineer for 16 years. Since 2002, Major Padgett has worked as a financial advisor. She and her family live in Anchorage, Alaska.
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for youth development, aerospace education, and the promotion of general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.