Day: March 18, 2026

Students at Plainfield Central High School recently had a unique opportunity to explore leadership and career pathways through a visit from U.S. Air Force recruiter Technical Sergeant Lance Choltko. The assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON and hosted for members of the school’s WALC (Wildcat Athletic Leadership Club), left a strong and positive impression on student athletes and faculty alike.

The WALC organization, made up of the top two or three leaders from each athletic team, gathered to hear TSgt Choltko speak about his experiences and the opportunities available through military service. According to Athletic Director Patrick Hanley, the event was both inspiring and informative.

“Technical Sergeant Choltko gave a very good speech about the positive effects that a career in the military can bring,” Hanley said. “He also made several connections between the leadership required in the military and the leadership required in athletics and how they are interconnected.”

Choltko shared his personal journey, explaining how joining the Air Force 14 years ago changed his life.

“I wasn’t doing anything with my life when I graduated high school,” he said. “Joining the Air Force completely changed my life. I’ve learned so much, traveled to different places, met incredible people, and built a family along the way.”

His relatable story helped students see the military not just as a career, but as a pathway to growth and opportunity.

Students responded with curiosity and enthusiasm. Many stayed after the presentation to ask thoughtful questions about balancing military life with family, career advancement, and daily responsibilities.

“It helped them consider leadership paths from a different perspective,” Hanley noted. “Several students even wrote down his contact information to follow up.”

Choltko also addressed common misconceptions about military service.

“A lot of young people think ‘military’ means constant danger or harsh conditions,” he said. “But in the Air Force, we live normal lives. I have a wife, kids, and a home—just like anyone else.” He emphasized that sports participation can be a strong foundation for military success, adding, “It teaches teamwork, discipline, and working toward a common goal.”

Both Hanley and Choltko stressed the importance of exposing students to a wide range of career options.

“The four-year university path is not for everyone,” Hanley said. “It’s important for students to see there are many equally respectable paths that can lead to success and happiness.”

Choltko encouraged students who may be uncertain to seek reliable information.

“Talk to a recruiter,” he advised. “Don’t rely on misconceptions—get the facts from someone who’s lived it.”

The assembly ultimately reinforced the value of leadership, open-mindedness, and exploration, qualities that will serve these student athletes well, no matter which path they choose.

 

At Leo High School on Chicago’s South Side, student-athletes recently had the opportunity to hear firsthand about leadership, discipline, and career opportunities through a visit from the United States Air Force. The assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON, brought together members of the school’s football and track teams for an engaging conversation with David Conover, who shared his personal journey and insight into military service.

For many students, the visit was both inspiring and relatable. Conover explained that he grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago before deciding to enlist after high school.

“I joined right after graduating high school mainly with the idea of completing one contract and getting direction for what I wanted to do with my life,” he told the group, adding, “It gave me a stable income, a job that excited me, and a community of friends and mentors,”.

According to school representative Theo Hopkins, the message resonated strongly with the students in attendance.

“The young men were able to learn the importance of accountability and discipline,” Hopkins said. “Technical Sergeant Conover spoke about his journey as a high school student in the south suburbs of Chicago and his decision to join the Air Force. That made an impact because he is from the neighborhood of some of our students.”

During the discussion, students asked numerous questions about careers, education benefits, and what daily life in the Air Force looks like. Conover highlighted the wide range of professional paths available.

“Professionally, we have just about any sort of career field available, from law enforcement and cyberwarfare to mechanical fields, firefighting, and medical careers,” he explained. “All careers come with experience that helps build a résumé, along with college credits toward a degree.”

Conover emphasized that military service can broaden perspectives while building valuable skills.

“There are many contacts, networking opportunities, and friendships that come out of the Air Force,” he said. “You also gain the experience of worldwide travel and learning new cultures.”

Conover noted that athletic participation builds teamwork and resilience, qualities essential in military service.

“Sports create the foundation of teamwork and learning to work with people from different backgrounds,” he said. “That mindset carries directly into the Air Force.”

Hopkins believes programs like this are especially valuable for students who may not be aware of all the opportunities available after graduation.

“For students who may be unsure about their next steps, learning they can develop a career, in the Air Force while continuing their education provides a sense of direction and hope.”

Leo High School also has a proud tradition of military service among its alumni, including William Walker, Class of 1975. Hearing stories from alumni and service members helps students see the possibilities ahead.

As Hopkins advises students considering the Air Force,

“Take the time to talk with a recruiter and ask questions. Joining the Air Force is a major life decision, and ultimately it has to be their choice—but getting accurate information can help them see the opportunities that are out there.”