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CIT Program

 

Is your child ready to take their skills to the next level?

Counselor in Training (CIT) Program:

Do you and your family love KidShip as much as our instructors do? Do you want to feel like you’re part of the team? Well, now is your chance! Campers who are at least 13 years old and have attended at least one session of an intermediate or advanced course at KidShip Sailing Camp are invited to apply as a CIT for the summer of 2026.

Program Overview

The CIT Program is a special opportunity for returning KidShip sailors to take the next step in their sailing journey by learning what it takes to help camp run smoothly behind the scenes. CITs work closely with the Head Instructor in their class, assisting with rigging and derigging boats, organizing equipment, maintaining a clean dock area, and helping keep their group on schedule. Throughout the week, CITs will build confidence, communication, teamwork, and leadership skills while learning how instructors manage classes and create a safe, fun learning environment. This hands-on experience helps prepare CITs for future leadership roles, while delivering the joy of sailing they fell in love with.

Who Should Apply

The ideal CIT is a dependable, enthusiastic sailor who enjoys being part of a team and contributing to camp life. CITs are expected to be role models for their peers who display responsibility, maturity, and a positive attitude on and off the water. This program is perfect for sailors who love KidShip and want to learn what it takes to lead and support others at camp.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 13 years old
  • Must have previously participated in the course you are applying to assist with
  • Must be available to attend the full week of camp that you are registered for
  • Must attend a mandatory training session on Sunday, June 14th
  • Must demonstrate a strong interest in sailing and helping others learn

Responsibilities

  • Assist instructors during classroom discussions and dockside instruction
  • Help with daily rigging, derigging, and equipment organization
  • Support safe and efficient boat departures and returns
  • Assist in maintaining clean, organized boats and dock areas
  • Be a positive, respectful, and reliable member of your class

Perks:

  • Learn communication skills, leadership skills, and other invaluable life skills
  • Create life-long friendships with fellow CITs and camp instructors
  • Gain instructional experience, while having a positive influence on young sailors
  • CIT programs also look great on high school applications, college applications, and job applications and allow your child to stand out from the sea of applicants.

Important Notes

  • This is NOT an instructor position; CITs are not old enough to be in charge of children. CITs are campers and will participate in their group’s activities alongside their peers.
  • The main goal of this program is to allow CITs to learn the skills, habits, and awareness necessary to be instructors in the future.
  • Participation in the CIT program does not guarantee future employment. However, we love the idea of hiring alumni once they are old enough!

Looking Ahead

CITs who demonstrate strong teamwork, maturity, and initiative are often invited to return as Junior Instructors once they meet age and experience requirements. This program is the first step toward joining the KidShip staff and sharing your passion for sailing with the next generation of campers.

How to apply:

  • Register for the camp of your choice
  • In the registration questions, click the box that says “My child is interested in applying to the CIT Program”
  • Applicants must be registered for their camp of choice and indicate interest in the CIT Program by April 30th
  • You will be contacted by the KidShip Director on May 1st and provided with a CIT Program application for your child to fill out
  • Applications must be typed. Handwritten applications are not accepted.
  • Once the application form is complete, email the form to the Director at michaela@annapolissailing.com
  • You will be contacted once your application is reviewed

Interview process:

  • Once your application form is reviewed, you will be directed to schedule a 10-minute informal virtual interview with the Director.
  • Virtual interviews will be scheduled for late May.
  • Applicants will be selected based on experience, instructor recommendations, and interview performance.

Questions? Comments? Please email the KidShip Director – michaela@annapolissailing.com

Are you an experienced sailor who is interested in working with us? Apply to be an instructor at KidShip! Apply online when we upload the job posting to Indeed in December, or send a resume to the Director, Michaela, by emailing michaela@annapolissailing.com. Click HERE to view available job positions at KidShip.

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