Introduce Scouts to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through Capitol Area Council’s COSMIC STEM Awards. COSMIC Counselors guide participants through First Steps and topic patches with age-appropriate, hands-on learning.

Who can be a COSMIC Counselor?

Any interested adult leader age 21 or older may deliver First Steps and patch-award material. Counselors must be registered in an appropriate Scouting America position and current in required position-specific training, including Safeguarding Youth Training. No separate COSMIC registration is required for counseling patch awards.

Training and preparation

Attend an in-person council COSMIC training class (required). Complete online merit badge counselor training at my.scouting.org (recommended). Review the published requirements and safety directions before delivering an award.

Counselors use age-appropriate instruction and supervision, work with their own child only in a group setting, and track participant progress with the COSMIC Award Tracking Spreadsheet or a similar checklist. COSMIC is not currently tracked in Scoutbook.

Submit the COSMIC Patch Reporting Form when First Steps or a topic award is complete. The tracking spreadsheet and reporting form are coming soon; check the COSMIC pages for availability.

Read the current Counselor and Mentor requirements and reporting and purchasing instructions.

When and where can I take the course?

Check the council’s University of Scouting course offerings and standalone COSMIC training announcements for current dates, locations, registration, and fees. Contact the CAC STEM Committee using the form below for help finding a class.