Author: Mark Hull

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.

An Air Force assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON at Central High School, gave members of the Central Wrestling team an up-close look at military life, career opportunities and the benefits of service.

Staff Sergeant (E6) Levi Marler and Sgt. Roland spoke candidly about their career paths and personal journeys, connecting their experiences to the goals and aspirations of student athletes.

“I joined back in ’09 to get out of my hometown. I wanted to travel and do something cool,” Marler shared.

That decision led him to become a hydraulics specialist on C-130 cargo aircraft, one of the Air Force’s primary transport planes. His work focused on moving cargo and troops worldwide in support of missions across the globe.

Marler described some of his most meaningful experiences.

“I enjoyed it the most when we were supporting other branches while in Afghanistan or when we would provide support for disasters like hurricane relief transporting emergency FEMA supplies,” he said. “I liked the feeling of making a difference.”

He emphasized that military service not only allowed him to travel but also gave him a strong sense of purpose and pride.

The recruiters also addressed common misconceptions about joining the Air Force. Marler explained that the process requires preparation.

“I think people don’t understand how difficult it can be and just assume they will be able to join whenever,” he said, noting that physical fitness, medical qualifications and career field availability all play a role.

For wrestlers in the room, the connection between athletics and military service was clear.

“Teamwork and dedication to something bigger than themselves,” Marler said, are qualities that translate directly from sports to the Air Force. He also outlined key benefits, including education assistance, hands-on job training and mentorship.

Students responded with enthusiasm, asking thoughtful questions such as:

“How long was boot camp?” “Are there cybersecurity jobs available in the Air Force?” “Do you travel a lot?” and “How much say do you have in choosing a job?”

Their curiosity reflected genuine interest in learning about both enlisted life and long-term career pathways.

Teacher and wrestling coach Quentin Grill praised the presentation.

“Tsgt. Marler and Sgt. Roland did a good job. They each spoke about what led them to the Air Force, what they started out doing and how they got to where they are now,” Grill said. “They connected well with students asking and answering all questions.”

Grill emphasized the importance of exposure to diverse career options.

“It’s helpful to have information about options and to have a specific person in that field to contact,” he said.

One student is already in the process of joining, and after the event, another began speaking with recruiters.

Central’s wrestlers left the assembly with expanded horizons and a deeper understanding of how service could shape their futures.

Maize South High School recently hosted a U.S. Air Force recruitment assembly that gave students a closer look at career pathways beyond the traditional four-year college route. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON and coordinated by Athletic Director Thomas Perkins, brought together student representatives from the school’s volleyball, basketball, and football programs to learn more about opportunities within the Air Force.

The focus on student-athletes highlighted the strong connection between athletics and the skills needed for military service, such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

One of the most impactful components of the visit was the Air Force interactive display. Perkins noted that students responded enthusiastically to the hands-on experience.

“I believe that the interactive portion made an impact and created curiosity among the students,” Perkins explained. “Many of them went back into the school and shared their experience with other students.”

That curiosity led to real conversations about the future, including one student who told Perkins he plans to “strongly explore the Air Force and the Air Force Academy.”

The assembly was led by Technical Sergeant Vanessa Miracle, a recruiter for the United States Air Force and Space Force, who shared her personal journey with students.

“I joined the Air Force when I was 17 and still a senior in high school,” Miracle said. “Growing up in a difficult childhood, I saw the military as a path to better my life and open doors to opportunities I could have only dreamed of.”

Miracle explained that her service has shaped every part of her life.

“The Air Force provided me with extensive educational opportunities and critical leadership skills,” she said. “It’s also where I met my spouse, and together we’ve built a family. Joining the Air Force was a pivotal decision for me.”

She also addressed common misconceptions students may have about military service.

“Many young adults focus on one specific job and miss the bigger picture,” Miracle said. “The Air Force is not just a job; it’s a pathway to a secure and purpose-driven future.”

Perkins emphasized the value of exposing students to different career options.

“This showed many of the options that are available other than the traditional four-year college option,” he said. Drawing from personal experience, he added, “I had an uncle and a close friend who served in the Air Force, and both had very positive things to say. The Air Force helped my friend earn a college education and great benefits.”

For students who may have doubts, both leaders shared similar advice.

“At least listen and don’t close doors,” Perkins said. Miracle echoed that message, encouraging students to “ask questions and not let myths or movies make their decisions.”

Overall, the Air Force assembly at Maize South High School sparked conversation, curiosity, and thoughtful consideration about future opportunities, reinforcing the importance of keeping an open mind when planning life after graduation.

Belleville East High School in Belleville, Illinois recently hosted an informative Air Force assembly that left a lasting impression on student-athletes and staff alike. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON and led by U.S. Air Force recruiter TSgt Kyle Groth, brought together members of the men’s and women’s wrestling teams for an up-close conversation about service, career opportunities, and life beyond high school.

Rashad Riley, wrestling coach at Belleville East High School, described the visit as an eye-opening experience for students who are actively thinking about their futures.

“It was an awesome experience. The kids were engaged and asked some great questions,” Riley said. “One of the most common statements I heard was, ‘I really thought that the army was my only outlet.”

According to Riley, the assembly helped broaden students’ perspectives and even encouraged some who had been considering other military branches to take a closer look at the Air Force.

A key factor in the event’s success was the personal, small-group format. Students were able to ask direct questions and receive honest, real-time answers.

“By actually having a person on site that can answer questions directly, it really affected the kids,” Riley explained. “Hearing a positive story and understanding what life could be like during and after duty made some of our kids reflect and grow interest.”

TSgt Groth shared his own journey with students, explaining that he joined the Air Force seeking life skills, travel opportunities, and long-term career benefits. Having served as an electrician and now as a recruiter, Groth emphasized the wide range of career paths available.

“The Air Force offers over 140 career fields,” he told students, noting options ranging from cybersecurity to aircraft maintenance, many of which translate directly to civilian careers.

Groth also highlighted how athletics can prepare students for military service.

“Sports give structure,” he said. “You have a coach, team captains, and teammates all working toward a common goal. There’s a physical and mental component that mirrors what we do in the Air Force.”

Beyond careers and benefits, the assembly focused on dispelling common misconceptions. Many students were surprised to learn that most Air Force members train extensively for specific jobs rather than serving on the front lines.

“Don’t knock it until you gather all the information,” Riley advised students who may have doubts. “Some of the things you’re afraid of really aren’t that bad or aren’t true at all.”

The assembly underscored the importance of exposing high school students to diverse career pathways and leadership opportunities.

As Riley summed up, “Our recruiter made the kids, and myself, feel like he was one of us. That genuine connection kept the conversation going and made the experience meaningful.”

Frontenac High School students recently had the opportunity to explore career possibilities in the U.S. Air Force during a school-wide assembly led by Technical Sergeant Christian Eads, an enlisted recruiter with the Air Force. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, offered students an inside look at military service, hands-on experiences, and an honest conversation about life after high school.

Technical Sergeant Eads shared his personal journey, explaining that his decision to join the Air Force in 2012 came from uncertainty about college and a desire to leave his home state of Nebraska.

“I wasn’t sure what career I wanted, and the Air Force gave me direction,” Eads said.

He began his career as a jet engine mechanic working on aerial refueling aircraft, a role that took him overseas to Spain and allowed him to help design an inspection program for an entire fleet of aircraft.

“I’ve had many cool opportunities, but the biggest impact has been how much the Air Force helped me grow as a person,” he added.

Now serving as a recruiter, Eads emphasized that military service is often misunderstood.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that the Air Force takes away your individuality, when in reality it helped me become more confident in who I am.”

He noted that partnerships with high schools are critical because they help provide accurate, up-to-date information and break down outdated stereotypes.

Eads also connected Air Force values to skills students already develop through activities like sports.

“Discipline, teamwork, and accountability are things students already practice every day in sports and school, they translate directly to success in the Air Force.”

Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Brady Hill praised the event and its impact on students. The assembly included a flight simulator, which quickly became a highlight.

“The hands-on simulator experience really captured students’ attention and made the presentation memorable.”

He noted that the experience sparked curiosity and gave students a realistic perspective on Air Force careers.

Hill emphasized the importance of exposing students to diverse career paths.

“Events like this help students start thinking seriously about life after graduation and the many paths available to them.”

Drawing from personal experience, he added, “My dad served in the Marines and the Army, and he showed me the importance of service.”

For students with doubts, Eads offered reassurance.

“You gain skills, lifelong benefits, and experiences that only a small percentage of Americans ever have.” he said.

Through events like this assembly, Frontenac High School students gained valuable insight into one more pathway toward their future.

Students at Andale High School recently gathered for a school-wide assembly that offered more than just information, it delivered inspiration, perspective, and a powerful message about leadership and future possibilities. The assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON, featured U.S. Air Force Reserve Enlisted Accessions Recruiter Master Sergeant Camillia Muncheberg, who spoke to the entire student body about service, career pathways, and personal growth through the Air Force.

Jeff Buchanan of Andale High School described the event as impactful and thought-provoking.

“There is always an opportunity to be a leader,” Buchanan said. “The big takeaway for our students was to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.”

He noted that the assembly clearly resonated, as several students approached staff afterward to ask questions and continue conversations.

“Multiple students came up after the assembly to talk more, which showed it really sparked their interest,” he added.

Master Sergeant Muncheberg shared her own journey, explaining that she initially joined the Air Force Reserve for education benefits.

“Through my Air Force journey, I gained more knowledge and experience than I ever could have learned in a classroom,” she said.

She emphasized that her service not only paid for her education, but also provided real-world experience, confidence, discipline, and career-ready skills that translated directly into the civilian workforce.

During the assembly, Muncheberg addressed common misconceptions students may have about military service.

“Joining the Air Force Reserve isn’t about changing your plans,” she explained. “It’s about supporting your goals and providing you with the resources you need to be successful. We’re growth supporters and foundation layers.”

She also highlighted how student-athletes are often well-prepared for military life.

“Sports require discipline, teamwork, accountability, and mental toughness,” Muncheberg said. “Those are the exact habits and mindsets the military looks for.”

Her message resonated with students involved in athletics and activities, helping them see how their current experiences already build leadership skills.

One of the most eye-opening aspects for students was the wide range of career opportunities available.

“We have over 130 career paths that we pay you to learn,” Muncheberg shared.

From healthcare and engineering to cyber security and aviation maintenance, she explained that the Air Force provides certifications, education benefits, insurance, and even travel opportunities.

Buchanan emphasized the importance of exposing students to many options.

“You never know what will stick with high school kids,” he said. “They need to be exposed to as many different career paths as possible.”

For students who may be unsure about military service, Muncheberg offered reassurance: “Hesitation doesn’t make you weak. Big decisions should make you think. You don’t do this because you have it all figured out—you do it so you’re not figuring it out alone.”

The assembly left Andale High School students with a renewed sense of possibility, leadership, and confidence in exploring their futures.

Aurora Central Catholic High School in Aurora, Illinois recently hosted a U.S. Air Force assembly that provided students with a look at potential career opportunities after graduation. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, was held with various Physical Education and Health classes and coordinated by JP Podgorni, Physical Education/Health Teacher at Aurora Central Catholic. The visit created a positive atmosphere and encouraged students to think more broadly about their futures.

During the assembly, Staff Sergeant Eric Balatayo, a Health Professions Recruiter for the U.S. Air Force, spoke with students about the Air Force career path, the process of joining, and the benefits of military service.

One of the main goals of the presentation was education and clarity.

“The key takeaway was that students got more information on the Air Force path and the process on how you can join the Air Force,” Podgorni shared. “Another key takeaway was the benefits of being in the Air Force. Overall, the impressions were very positive as students got more knowledge on an intriguing career path.”

Students responded with interest and enthusiasm as they learned about life in the Air Force and the many roles available. Podgorni noted that the meeting had a meaningful impact.

The conversation helped reinforce that the Air Force can be a realistic and rewarding option after graduation.

Staff Sergeant Balatayo shared his own journey to help students relate.

“I struggled for some years after high school trying to find a sense of purpose,” he explained. “At the age of 24, I decided to dig up the idea of the armed services. Being in the Air Force now for eight years has been life changing. It’s given me everything I was looking for, and my one regret is that I didn’t give it a chance sooner.”

His story resonated with students who may be unsure about traditional college pathways.

Balatayo also addressed common misconceptions about military service.

“Many students are turned away because of misconceptions from media or movies,” he said. “One of the biggest myths is that you don’t have freedom. I’ve never had as much freedom to do the things I want to do until I joined the Air Force.”

Programs like this are valuable because they expose students to diverse career options while supporting leadership development.

Podgorni emphasized, “It is important for students to be exposed to different career options to develop as leaders and see the ways they can positively impact themselves.”

When offering advice to students with doubts, Podgorni encouraged reflection and conversation.

“I would tell students to highly consider all of their options and speak to trusted adults and leaders around you,” he said.

Overall, the Air Force assembly at Aurora Central Catholic High School was a successful and impactful experience, giving students knowledge, perspective, and confidence as they begin planning for life beyond high school.

Students at North Side High School in Fort Worth, Texas were inspired during a recent assembly, facilitated by DistrictWON, led by a U.S. Air Force representative. Meeting with groups across female athletics, JROTC, AVID, and PE, the presentation opened students’ eyes to the wide range of opportunities the Air Force can offer.

Athletic Coordinator Christopher Lunsford said the assembly offered students a much broader understanding of what the Air Force can provide.

“The students learned about multiple opportunities for them to be able to attend college and serve in the Air Force,” he explained. “They learned that there are many different pathways they can take while serving.”

Many students walked away surprised by the diversity of careers available.

For Lunsford, programs like this are essential to preparing students for life after high school.

“If the students don’t know that a career path even exists, how would they ever begin to work toward it?” he said. He believes that showing students the full range of future possibilities is “one of the most important things we can do in our schools.”

Lunsford has seen the benefits of military service firsthand through his brother, who served a decade in the Air Force.

“He now has a college degree that the Air Force helped pay for… he has VA health benefits, and he has memories of multiple places around the world where he lived,” he shared.

When students express doubts about joining, Lunsford encourages them to explore the option fully.

“I encourage them to join the Air Force,” he said. “I absolutely encourage them to do research and talk to multiple people who have military experience prior to making a final decision.”

The assembly presenter, 2d Lt Jennifer Moreno, serves as an Admissions Advisor for the Air Force Academy and is a proud graduate of the Class of 2025. Inspired by her mother’s service, she chose the Air Force to serve her country while earning her degree.

“I have been able to grow, lead, and challenge myself in ways I never imagined,” Moreno said, describing experiences from leading hundreds to jumping solo from an aircraft.

She noted that many young people still misunderstand military service.

“There’s often a perception that service only involves being ‘boots on the ground,’ but that is far from the full picture,” she explained. She highlighted roles in engineering, medicine, cyber, law, and more.

Moreno emphasized that sports also help prepare students for success through teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

For those unsure about joining, her message was clear:

“The only way to truly know if it’s right for you is to try. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back.”