Author: Mark Hull

At Corpus Christi Miller High School in Texas, student-athletes recently had a unique opportunity to look beyond competition and consider their futures during a United States Air Force assembly led by Technical Sergeant Taylor Wiens. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, brought together Girls JV and Varsity Cross Country/Track and Field, as well as Volleyball, Basketball, and Soccer teams, creating a powerful intersection between athletics and career exploration.

Head Girls Track and Field Coach Roxann Garcia described the experience as both impactful and inspiring.

“The key takeaways from the event were the importance of discipline, accountability, and the wide range of career opportunities available through the United States Air Force,” Garcia said.

She emphasized how closely those values align with what student-athletes already practice daily.

“The recruiter did an excellent job explaining not only career pathways, but also life skills such as leadership and time management.”

Students responded with strong engagement and curiosity throughout the presentation. Many were surprised to learn about the diversity of career fields available, especially in areas like technology, healthcare, and engineering.

“That seemed to shift their perception and made the Air Force feel more accessible,” Garcia noted.

Several students stayed afterward to ask additional questions, signaling a genuine interest sparked by the visit. One student shared that they had never previously considered military service but were now intrigued by the educational benefits and structured environment.

For Garcia, who served 12 years in the United States Army, the message resonated on a personal level.

“The military instilled a high level of discipline, accountability, and resilience that continues to shape how I lead, teach, and coach today,” she explained.

She believes programs like this are essential in helping students understand that success can take many forms.

“It is important for students to be exposed to a wide range of career options so they can make informed decisions about their future.”

Technical Sergeant Wiens also highlighted the importance of building relationships with schools. He noted that misconceptions often prevent students from considering the Air Force.

“I hear a lot that you need to score more than a 70 on the ASVAB. This is not true, you only need a 31,” he said, and also adding, “The Air Force has been instrumental in creating a career for me, allowing me to pursue higher education and make a good life for my family and myself.”

Both Garcia and Wiens agreed that athletics play a key role in preparing students for military service.

“An active lifestyle is greatly beneficial,” Wiens said, while Garcia pointed to the shared emphasis on teamwork, resilience, and discipline.

Ultimately, the assembly left a lasting impression.

“The goal is to choose a path that helps you grow and gives you purpose,” Garcia said. “For many young adults, the Air Force can be exactly that.”

 

At Judson High School in Converse, Texas, student-athletes recently had the opportunity to engage with a unique and inspiring perspective on their futures during a U.S. Air Force recruitment assembly. Organized through Judson Athletics, facilitated by DistrictWON, and coordinated by Christina Holland, the event brought together athletes from a wide range of programs, including cheer, volleyball, basketball, cross country, track, soccer, softball, baseball, swimming, tennis, and powerlifting.

Technical Sergeant Tyler Vines, an Air Force recruiter, led the discussion, sharing his personal journey and professional experiences.

“I joined the Air Force because I wanted to be on my own after high school and not rely on my parents to support me through college,” Vines explained. “Since then, I’ve earned an associate degree and worked in several roles, including transportation, security management, training, and recruiting.”

His story resonated with many students, illustrating how military service can provide both independence and career development.

One of the key takeaways from the assembly was the strong connection between athletics and military life.

“Athletes can find a unique alignment in the military because the core values of both worlds, discipline, teamwork, and physical excellence, are virtually identical,” Holland noted.

Vines reinforced this idea, adding, “Sports set a foundation for discipline and sticking to a schedule that is paramount in the Air Force. The transition into Basic Military Training is often smoother for those with an athletic background.”

The event sparked curiosity and excitement among students. One soccer player stayed after the session to ask additional questions and explore the possibility of joining the Air Force. In the days that followed, several other students expressed growing interest after reflecting on what they had learned.

“It gave them a new perspective on what’s possible after graduation,” Holland shared.

Vines also addressed common misconceptions about military service.

“A lot of people think you need extremely high ASVAB scores to join, but we accept passing scores starting at 31, just like other branches,” he said. “There are over 140 career paths available, from aviation and cybersecurity to medical and intelligence roles.”

The broader impact of the program lies in its ability to expose students to diverse career options in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

“It helps students develop valuable soft skills and consider paths they may not have otherwise explored,” Holland explained.

For students with doubts, both Holland and Vines offered reassurance.

“Doubts are normal,” Holland said. “But this path can build independence and a strong foundation for the future.”

Vines echoed that sentiment: “One four-year enlistment can set you up for life, with education, training, and skills that translate directly into civilian careers.”

Overall, the assembly left a lasting impression, empowering Judson High School athletes to think bigger about their futures and the many paths available to them.

At Desert View High School in Tucson, Arizona, students recently had the opportunity to engage with the United States Air Force through a special assembly led by Technical Sergeant Calvin Myers. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, brought together AFJROTC students who are also student athletes, offering them a closer look at military life, career pathways, and the values that shape Air Force service.

The event provided meaningful exposure for students and succeeded in sparking thoughtful conversations about leadership, service, and personal growth.

TSgt Myers shared insights from his own career, describing his transition from a Structural Craftsman to an Active Duty Enlisted Recruiter.

“I originally joined the Air Force because I wanted a way to become financially stable, learn new skills and get to travel the world,” he explained. “All of which I have achieved.”

His message resonated with students, many of whom are beginning to consider their futures beyond high school.

One of the key themes discussed was the connection between athletics and military service. Myers emphasized that

“Sports prepare someone for service in the Air Force in the aspects of leadership, teamwork, commitment and physical fitness.” This message connected with the student athletes in attendance, reinforcing how their current experiences can translate into future opportunities.

Andrea Jaramillo, a Desert View high school representative, brings extensive personal and professional military experience, and played an important role in reinforcing these ideas. Having served 22 years in the Air Force, she shared how her own journey transformed her life.

“Being in the Air Force changed my life,” she said. “I was able to move out of my parents’ home and provide for my children. I am now retired and loved every minute of the 22 years I served.”

Her story provided students with a powerful, real-world example of resilience and opportunity.

The assembly also highlighted the importance of consistent engagement between military recruiters and schools. Both Jaramillo and Myers emphasized that building strong partnerships can help students better understand their options and prepare for future success. Myers noted that many young people rely on “dubiously reliable sources such as social media influencers” for information, underscoring the value of direct interaction.

Ultimately, the event served as a reminder of the many paths available to students after graduation. As Myers told attendees,

“It’s okay to have doubts… this job isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life.”

For Desert View students, the assembly opened the door to new possibilities and encouraged them to think more deeply about their goals, their strengths, and their potential to lead.

 

Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix, Arizona recently welcomed a special guest who left a lasting impression on students: U.S. Air Force recruiter TSgt Eric Sobba. Organized with the support of SMSgt Chadrick Hayden, and facilitated by DistrictWON, the visit marked a meaningful opportunity for students to learn firsthand about career pathways, personal growth, and service in the Air Force.

For many at Sunnyslope, the visit was especially significant.

“It’s been a while since we had an Air Force recruiter here,” said SMSgt Hayden. “It’s nice to know he is our designated recruiter for our school.”

His enthusiasm reflected a broader sense of appreciation across campus, where students were eager to engage with someone who could offer clear, up-to-date insights into military life and opportunities.

TSgt Sobba brought energy and authenticity to his presentation, sharing his own journey into the Air Force.

“I didn’t have any direction coming out of high school and wanted a career,” he explained. “The Air Force was an avenue to provide that for me.”

His story resonated with students who may be uncertain about their next steps after graduation, offering a relatable example of how military service can provide structure and purpose.

A key takeaway from the event was the wide range of opportunities available in the Air Force, something that surprised many students.

“A big stereotype is the perception of what we do,” Sobba noted. “We have over 100 career fields that utilize very different technical skills.”

This helped broaden students’ understanding, showing that the Air Force is not limited to one type of role but instead offers diverse career paths, from technology to healthcare and beyond.

Students responded with curiosity and excitement, particularly as they learned about the benefits associated with service. SMSgt Hayden, who served 26 years in the Air Force, spoke from personal experience.

“All speak well of their time in the military and all the VA benefits, job benefits, and education benefits on top of the retirement benefits,” he shared, referencing not only his own career but also the experiences of multiple family members who served.

The event also highlighted how high school experiences, especially athletics, can prepare students for military life.

“Sports allow young adults to learn leadership skills and teamwork that are utilized daily,” Sobba explained. “You also learn the ability to reach a common goal amongst a team.”

Ultimately, the visit underscored the importance of exposing students to a variety of post-graduation options. Programs like this help bridge the gap between education and career, giving students tools to make informed decisions. Sobba encouraged those with doubts to keep an open mind:

“If you are looking for a way to pay for school, travel, start a career, or don’t know what you want to do, then the Air Force is an excellent place to look.”

SMSgt Hayden echoed that sentiment with simple, direct advice: “Just do it.”

At Triad High School in Troy, Illinois, student-athletes recently had the opportunity to engage with members of the United States Air Force. The event, led by Strength & Conditioning Teacher and Coach Bailey Stack, and facilitated by DistrictWON, brought together all students enrolled in the school’s strength and conditioning training program for an informative and interactive session.

According to Stack, the visit was designed to expose students to possibilities beyond traditional post-secondary paths.

“It gives student-athletes a chance to see other options outside of college or trade routes,” Stack explained. “Especially for those who are routine-oriented, the Air Force can be a strong fit.”

The recruiter met with the group, answered questions, and offered resources tailored to students’ varying levels of interest.

Leading the discussion was Senior Airman Davis Oliver, a recruiter serving Southern Illinois. Oliver shared his personal journey, noting that he chose the Air Force because he “wanted a career that would set him up for success immediately and also for the remainder of his life.” His candid approach helped students better understand both the professional and personal benefits of military service.

One of the key themes of the assembly was breaking down misconceptions.

“There is a lot of misinformation about what recruiters are meant to do,” Oliver said. “Young adults may hear things like ‘we are all pilots,’ but we have over 100 careers with a vast range of specialties.” He also addressed concerns about lifestyle, adding, “A big stereotype is that you lose all of your freedom when you join. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The work-life balance is honestly probably a lot better than most careers.”

Students responded with curiosity and enthusiasm. Stack noted that some were eager to ask about Oliver’s life before the military, while others were already considering the Air Force as part of their future plans.

“There was definitely excitement,” Stack said, pointing out that access to firsthand experiences made a strong impression.

Oliver also emphasized how athletics can prepare students for military service.

“Sports give students the opportunity to grow into leadership roles at an early age,” he said. “That transition is something athletes tend to handle very well.”

The assembly highlighted key benefits of Air Force service, including education, job security, and travel.

“All airmen are given the opportunity to further their education without cost,” Oliver explained. “The goal is to push you outside your comfort zone and help you come out a better person.”

For students still unsure about their future, both Stack and Oliver offered simple advice.

“Talk with the recruiter personally,” Stack encouraged. Oliver echoed that sentiment, saying, “Our job is to help you make those hard decisions and provide a path to reach your goals.”

At The Academies at South Mountain in Phoenix, freshmen students recently took part in an engaging and informative assembly with a recruiter from the United States Air Force, opening their eyes to a wide range of future possibilities. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, brought together students involved in athletics, clubs, and academic programs, emphasized the value of exploring diverse career pathways early in high school.

Led by recruiter Ruben Mejia Villanueva, the presentation left a strong impression on attendees. According to Donald Mitchell, the Freshman House Coordinator at the school, the event delivered important insights.

“The key takeaways highlighted that the Air Force is a viable and attractive option for students after high school,” Mitchell said. “Learning about the wide range of career pathways, training opportunities, and long-term benefits available to recruits was especially impactful.”

Students were particularly interested in the Air Force’s commitment to education. Opportunities such as tuition assistance and funding for college stood out as major benefits.

“The presentation helped broaden students’ understanding of postsecondary options and encouraged them to consider pathways they may not have previously explored,” Mitchell added.

The assembly sparked noticeable excitement among the freshman class. Many students were surprised to learn that success after high school does not have to follow a single, traditional route.

“Yesterday’s event generated a great deal of excitement,” Mitchell shared. “Several students expressed a strong interest in pursuing the Air Force specifically, noting the benefits, career options, and educational support available.”

For SSgt Mejia Villanueva, connecting with students is deeply personal. Reflecting on his own journey, he explained,

“I joined the Air Force on February 23, 2016, and have not regretted it one bit. I was stuck between two paths and chose to be different.”

Growing up in a challenging environment, he saw military service as a way to build a better future.

“The Air Force has given me a chance to provide for my family,” he said. “The impact it has had on me is beyond explanation.”

He also addressed common misconceptions about military life.

“One of the biggest stereotypes is that we’re at work 24/7, 365,” he explained. “That’s not the case. We’re people, we have lives outside the uniform.”

His honesty helped students better understand the balance and flexibility that can come with service.

The presentation also highlighted how skills developed through sports translate directly into military success.

“The Air Force is all about being part of a team and having service before self,” Mejia Villanueva said. “Sports are a huge preparation tool.”

Mitchell emphasized the importance of these programs in shaping student futures.

“Exposure to diverse career options is essential for leadership development,” he said. “It empowers students with knowledge and helps them make informed decisions.”

For students with doubts, Mitchell offered reassurance: “It’s normal to have questions. The Air Force doesn’t limit your future ,it can open doors.”

At Gibbs High School in St. Petersburg, students recently had a unique opportunity to engage with members of the United States Air Force Reserve during an interactive and inspiring assembly. The assembly facilitated by DistrictWON and hosted in partnership with talent acquisition representatives from MacDill Air Force Base, brought real-world insight into military service, career development, and educational opportunities.

The visiting recruiters, Jennifer L. Deimund and Ciara O. Goodwin, made a strong impression by creating an engaging atmosphere that encouraged student participation. Rather than delivering a traditional lecture, they fostered open dialogue.

“The recruiters didn’t just speak at the students; they engaged with them,” said Michael Millarez, ROTC instructor for the school. “This created an environment of genuine curiosity rather than a standard lecture.”

One of the most impactful moments came when the recruiters explained the part-time nature of the Air Force Reserve. For many students, this was a revelation.

“I overheard a group of seniors expressing relief and surprise that they didn’t have to choose between going to college and serving,” Millarez shared. “They realized they could actually use the Air Force to fund their degree while building a resume simultaneously.”

This newfound understanding sparked excitement and broadened perspectives about post-graduation pathways.

MSgt Deimund, who currently serves as a recruiter, spoke candidly about her own journey.

“I joined the Air Force for more opportunities both personally and professionally,” she explained. “The Air Force has allowed me the opportunity to grow as an individual and have experiences I would have never been exposed to coming from a small town.”

Her message resonated with students who may feel uncertain about their next steps.

The assembly also addressed common misconceptions about military service. Deimund emphasized that exposure through school partnerships is key to helping students make informed decisions.

“It is important to show how people in even the same branch of service can serve in many ways,” she said, highlighting both part-time and full-time opportunities.

Beyond career options, the recruiters underscored the importance of teamwork and leadership, skills often developed through sports and extracurricular activities.

“The Air Force succeeds when everyone works together just like a team sport,” Deimund noted.

Millarez reflected on the broader significance of such programs, stating,

“Providing these options early allows students to compare different branches and civilian paths. It empowers them to make an informed choice about their lives rather than a rushed one after graduation.” Drawing from his own military experience, he added, “Being part of something larger than myself is the quickest way to develop true character.”

For students weighing their futures, the message was clear: “Joining doesn’t mean you’re ‘stuck’ for life, it means you’re gaining an edge,” Millarez said.

With opportunities for education, leadership, and career growth, the Air Force presentation left Gibbs High students informed, inspired, and ready to explore new possibilities.

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.”

Students from across Northside ISD recently had a unique opportunity to learn about leadership, teamwork, and career possibilities during a special Air Force assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON, in San Antonio, Texas. The event connected students in the district’s Leadership in Action program with representatives from the United States Air Force, offering firsthand insight into military life and the many opportunities available after high school.

The assembly featured Andre Uzila, a Staff Sergeant and program manager for Air Force national events. During his visit, Uzila shared his personal journey in the Air Force and spoke about how the experience has shaped his life and career.

“My decision really came down to what I wanted my life to look like in 20 years,” Uzila told students. “I saw what the Air Force did for other people around me and how it allowed them to achieve things they didn’t think were possible.”

Uzila explained that his career has included several roles, from working with petroleum products to serving as an enlisted accessions recruiter before transitioning into his current position managing national events. He emphasized that the Air Force offers professional development, leadership training, and career pathways that many students may not realize exist.

One major focus of the presentation was teamwork, an essential quality both in athletics and military service. Uzila noted that the skills students develop through sports and school activities closely mirror the qualities expected of Airmen.

“Sports offer students leadership opportunities and the ability to work as a team,” Uzila said. “Whether you’re brand new or have been in the Air Force for 20 years, these traits will be vital to the success of yourself and others around you.”

According to Sonia Almanza, Assistant Athletic Director for Northside ISD, the event sparked curiosity and meaningful conversations among the students who attended.

“Our Leadership in Action students from across our district had the chance to learn about life in the Air Force and the teamwork it requires,” Almanza said. “Several students had follow-up questions, which showed genuine interest in what they heard.”

Almanza believes that exposure to military careers is valuable for students as they begin planning their futures.

“Programs like this give students another option after high school and help them explore leadership opportunities they may not have considered before,” she said.

Uzila also addressed common misconceptions about military service, explaining that partnerships with schools help provide accurate information to students.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is misinformation about the Air Force and what it offers,” he said. “Talking directly with students helps break that barrier and gives them the facts.”

He encouraged students who may be uncertain about military service to seek reliable information and ask questions.

“My best advice is to talk to a recruiter,” Uzila said. “Their job is to provide guidance and help you find a path to success, whether that’s with the Air Force or another opportunity.”

For many Northside ISD students, the assembly was an inspiring introduction to a potential future built on service, leadership, and personal growth.