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Concord High School in New Hampshire recently hosted a U.S. Air Force assembly, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore the possibilities of military service. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, featured SSgt Avery A. Hale, an EA Recruiter, whose engaging presentation left a lasting impression on the school’s student-athletes and broader community.
Representatives from various sports teams, including soccer, basketball, and ice hockey, attended the session, creating a vibrant and diverse audience. SSgt Hale captivated students with her personal journey in the Air Force, sharing how her career has shaped her professionally and personally.
“Before joining the Air Force, I struggled to find my purpose after college and felt unfulfilled after stepping away from competitive basketball,” Hale shared. “The Air Force not only reignited my passion for the sport through the All-Air Force Women’s Basketball team but also provided me with leadership skills and educational opportunities, including earning a master’s in sports management.”
One of the most impactful moments of the assembly was the interactive Q&A session. Student-athletes asked insightful questions, ranging from career paths in the Air Force to balancing service and personal life. The recruiters provided clear and relatable answers, debunking stereotypes and encouraging students to consider the Air Force as a pathway to growth and stability.
The assembly had a profound impact on the female students in attendance, sparking excitement and curiosity about Air Force opportunities. Recruiters highlighted the wide range of roles available, such as cybersecurity, healthcare, and engineering, demonstrating that the Air Force is not limited to combat roles.
“There’s a common misconception that military life is incompatible with family life or personal goals, but the Air Force prioritizes family support and flexibility,” Hale explained. “It’s a career path where women can thrive as leaders while maintaining balance.”
The event also underscored the importance of integrating diverse perspectives within the Air Force. By fostering partnerships with high schools, recruiters aim to inspire young women to break through barriers and imagine themselves in leadership roles.
Concord High School Athletic Director Steve Largy praised the assembly, emphasizing its value in broadening students’ horizons.
“Our goal is to provide student-athletes with real-world knowledge and connections to potential career paths,” Largy said. “The Air Force offers unique opportunities for leadership development, discipline, and teamwork, which align perfectly with the skills our athletes are already cultivating.”
As the session concluded, recruiters engaged in one-on-one conversations with students, leaving many inspired and eager to explore the opportunities the Air Force provides.
This assembly showcased the Air Force as a pathway to leadership, education, and personal fulfillment—empowering Concord High School students to envision a future full of possibilities.