The recent Air Force assembly at Crater High School, facilitated by DistrictWON, left a profound impact on the female students in attendance. The event, designed to expand career horizons for young women, not only provided insights into the diverse opportunities available within the Air Force but also served to inspire and empower them.

“It’s crucial for our young women to see strong role models, especially in fields like the military, where they often don’t see themselves represented.” said Karilu James, the College & Career Pathway Coordinator at Crater High School.

Healthcare careers within the Air Force were especially interesting to the students. “We offer a Health Science Pathway and Health Occupations class here at Crater, and the information shared today really piqued the students’ interest,” James explained. “It’s something they could apply directly to their studies, and many had a lot of follow-up questions about these career options in the military.”

Recruiters also took the time to address the differences between enlisting and pursuing a commission through ROTC or the Air Force Academy. “We want students to understand that both routes have their advantages,” said Technical Sergeant Evelyn Alvarado. “Whether you enlist first to gain experience or apply for ROTC right away, there are countless ways to succeed in the Air Force. It’s all about building a strong resume and taking advantage of the opportunities available to you.”

Alvarado encouraged students to start thinking about their future early: “If you’re interested in ROTC, talk to a recruiter by your junior year. You want to be ahead of the game, so when you apply, you’re ready. Also, we always recommend taking the ASVAB—it opens doors for a variety of roles.”

“It was amazing to see how the students started opening up. They’re really thinking about their future now. One student even expressed interest in continuing her education through the Air Force, which was a huge step for her.” James added.

A central theme of the day was the importance of representation, particularly for women in the military. “We want them to see that the Air Force is a place where women can thrive in any role, whether it’s leadership, technical skills, or specialized fields,” Alvarado said.

James agreed, “The students saw that women can be successful in traditionally male-dominated fields like the military. Seeing women who have advanced in their careers through dedication and hard work is incredibly empowering for our students.”

Alvarado further explained how the Air Force supports diversity and encourages all its members, regardless of gender, to excel: “We are making strides to integrate and diversify the military. It’s not just about having women in the ranks—it’s about showing everyone, especially young girls, that there’s a place for them in this field.

The Air Force assembly at Crater High School was a success, inspiring female students to think about leadership, service, and education in new ways. “The Air Force is more than just a job,” said Alvarado. “It’s an opportunity to grow, challenge yourself, and achieve things you might not have thought possible.”