Author: Mark Hull

Keene High School recently hosted a recruitment event led by the U.S. Air Force that left a lasting impression on its students, especially the young women who participated. The event, Facilitated by DistrictWON, was part of the school’s efforts to provide diverse career opportunities to its student body, focused on showcasing the many possibilities within the Air Force and how sports and leadership can translate into a successful military career.

Michael Atkins, Director of Athletics and Advisor for the Student Athlete Leadership Council at Keene High School, helped organize the event. He shared, 

“We wanted our girls to have exposure to different career options, especially those they might not have considered before. The Air Force and ROTC programs offer excellent leadership opportunities that can help these young women develop both personally and professionally.”

Jillian Rokes, a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, was the guest speaker for the day. A recent graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Rokes is currently serving as a Gold Bar Recruiter at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. She spoke passionately about her decision to join the Air Force, citing the influence of her great uncle, a Navy pilot, as a key factor in her journey. 

“I joined the Air Force to give back to my country, just as my great uncle did,” Rokes shared. “The military has shaped me into a confident and resilient person, and I believe young women today can benefit from the same opportunities.”

During the assembly, Rokes addressed the challenge of underrepresentation of women in the Air Force, particularly in leadership roles. She noted that many young women are deterred from military service due to stereotypes or misconceptions about the lifestyle, including concerns about work-life balance and career advancement. 

“By partnering with high schools, we can break down these myths and show students, especially young women, the wide range of careers available,” she explained. “The Air Force offers numerous roles, from aviation to military police, that provide not only professional growth but also the chance to serve with purpose.”

For Keene High’s Student Athlete Leadership Council, the event was a game-changer. The group of girls, who are athletes in sports such as soccer, field hockey, and basketball, were introduced to potential career paths that align with their leadership skills. 

Atkins noted, “Many of our students had never considered the Air Force or ROTC, simply because they didn’t know it was an option. This event helped them see how their athleticism and leadership could translate into a fulfilling career in the military.”

Atkins concluded, “It’s essential for our girls to have options, and this event was a step in the right direction. Encouraging ROTC involvement and pursuing a career in the Air Force can truly change their lives.

Gardiner Area High School in Maine recently hosted an assembly featuring members of the U.S. Air Force, designed to inspire and inform young women about careers in military service. The event, Facilitated by DistrictWON, was attended by female athletes from various sports teams, highlighted the opportunities, leadership potential, and diverse career paths that the Air Force offers.

Nate Stubbert, Athletic Director at Gardiner Area High School, expressed his enthusiasm for the assembly, emphasizing the value of exposing students to new opportunities.

“I think it’s extremely important for all of our student-athletes to be exposed to as many potential career options as possible,” Stubbert said. “The Air Force is probably a career path that many, if not all, of our female athletes have never thought about. Having them come into our school and speak with our students opens their eyes to the possibilities.”

The assembly aimed to dispel common stereotypes and misconceptions about military service, especially for women. Lt. Victoria Fairbanks, a Gold Bar Recruiter with the U.S. Air Force, shared her personal journey and insights. She noted that having more women in the military provides confidence and representation for others who might consider it.

“The most significant impact that the female recruiters had was that they were relatable,” Stubbert shared. “They shared the same interests for athletics that our female athletes do.”

This relatability, combined with the recruiters’ stories and experiences, helped inspire attendees to envision themselves in similar roles.

“They were most surprised by the fact that they could retire in their mid-30s,” Stubbert said, highlighting the unique benefits that military service can offer, such as early retirement, leadership development, and paid education opportunities. These perks were eye-opening for students who may not have previously considered such paths.

“The benefits for women joining the military are innumerable,” Fairbanks said. “Some of these include leadership development, character growth, a career, retirement, and health care.”

Fairbanks emphasized that while some roles in the military may be physically demanding, many positions do not pose significant risk, and women can indeed have families while serving. “Women can join the Air Force and have children,” she explained. “Not every job places an Airman on the front lines, and the Air Force’s mission is often more supportive than combat-focused.”

For female students contemplating a future in the military, Fairbanks offered words of encouragement:

“You can do it! Whatever doubts you have can be addressed—just apply and see what opportunities the military has to offer. Joining the Air Force was one of the best decisions I made.”

The assembly was a powerful opportunity for young women to see themselves as future leaders, in the military or beyond. The event reinforced the importance of exploring diverse career paths and finding the courage to pursue them.

Cony High School in Augusta, Maine, recently hosted a U.S. Air Force assembly, introducing female students to the diverse career opportunities available in one of the nation’s most vital branches of service. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, left them inspired and eager to explore what the Air Force has to offer. The assembly highlighted the importance of leadership, service, and the many roles women can play in the military, empowering the next generation to consider the Air Force as a path toward personal and professional growth.

T.J. Maines, Athletic Director at Cony High School, shared his thoughts on the event: “The key takeaway from this event was the possibility of what joining the U.S. Air Force could mean for our students. For some, it’s the opportunity to pay for college, and for others, it’s a chance to travel the world and see new things. Many students left the assembly with excitement and hope for the future.”

The Air Force recruiters emphasized how women have played an essential role in shaping the service, holding positions of leadership and participating in a wide range of missions. The recruiters shared personal experiences to highlight the valuable leadership skills gained through service, encouraging students to consider how they could develop both personally and professionally by joining.

Mickey Amaro, a Flight Chief in the Air Force Reserve, reflected on the significance of such recruitment events: “When I first joined the military, I didn’t realize how much it would help me grow as a person. The Air Force offers women a chance to develop leadership skills, personal resilience, and confidence that will serve them both in the military and beyond. Sharing our stories with young women at high schools helps to open their eyes to the many opportunities that exist.”

The Air Force assembly also emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the military. “When we bring people from different backgrounds together, it strengthens our teams and helps us make better decisions,” said Jillian Rokes, a Gold Bar Recruiter in the U.S. Air Force. “It’s about building a community that supports each other, and that’s what the U.S. Air Force offers: a team where everyone has the opportunity to lead and make a difference.”

The recruiters stressed that young women, in particular, should see the Air Force as a way to build their future. Whether they are interested in aviation, law enforcement, or humanitarian efforts, the Air Force provides an environment where young women can thrive, make a meaningful impact, and develop their leadership potential.

“I would recommend any student consider the Air Force as an option,” said T.J. Maines. “There are so many benefits that they may not even know about—like leadership development, the chance to serve their country, and the opportunities to grow as individuals.”

The Air Force assembly at Cony High School not only educated the students about the service but also inspired them to think big and pursue careers that will allow them to lead, serve, and build a bright future.

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.”

Tenaha High School recently hosted an assembly featuring members of the U.S. Coast Guard, an event that left a real impact on the students. The assembly was attended by student-athletes from grades 7 through 12, including boys who participate in sports such as football, basketball, cross country, and soccer. This gathering offered more than just information; it provided inspiration and opened the door to potential career paths that many of our students hadn’t previously considered.

Chief James Grant, who led the Coast Guard representatives, shared compelling stories from his service.

“The Coast Guard has taught me the importance of resilience, teamwork, and leadership,” said Chief Grant. “These aren’t just skills for the military; they’re life skills that can help you succeed in anything you do.” His words resonated deeply with the students, who could see the parallels between the discipline required in sports and the discipline needed in the Coast Guard.

The assembly was interactive, with students eagerly engaging with the Coast Guard members. The speakers provided a candid look into their experiences, discussing the challenges and rewards of their careers. They highlighted the diverse roles within the Coast Guard, from search and rescue operations to environmental protection and cybersecurity.

One of the key takeaways from the assembly was the importance of exploring all career options.

“It’s important for high school students to hear directly from professionals,” said Dee Lewis, Athletic Director at Tenaha High School. “Kids are always hearing things, but having these guys on campus to talk about the great and important things they do really makes a difference. It motivates our students to try new things and helps them understand their options better.”

The students were excited and curious, asking questions and seeking confirmation about what they had heard.

The benefits of hosting such assemblies, facilitated by DistrictWON, are significant. They provide students with exposure to different career paths, especially those that develop leadership skills and offer opportunities for personal growth.

“I have a brother who served in the Army, and his experience shaped his life in so many positive ways,” shared Lewis. “It’s crucial for our students to see the value in these kinds of careers and understand that they can offer both personal and professional development.”

For any student considering the Coast Guard but feeling unsure, Lewis offers this advice:

“Ask questions, explore your options, and don’t be afraid to seek out more information. If you have doubts, I’m here to help, and I’ll arrange for someone like Chief Grant to come back and talk with you personally. It’s about making sure you’re content with your decision and understanding all that the Coast Guard has to offer.”

The U.S. Coast Guard assembly at Tenaha High School not only broadened their horizons but also reinforced the values of leadership, teamwork, and resilience that are central to both athletic and personal development. As Chief Grant aptly put it, “The Coast Guard isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to grow, to lead, and to serve with purpose.”

Mt. Whitney High School recently welcomed Chief Darryl McDonald from the U.S. Coast Guard for an engaging assembly, Facilitated by DistrictWON, that provided students with a glimpse into the opportunities and benefits of joining the Coast Guard. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors on the varsity football team, many of whom also participate in other sports such as soccer, basketball, wrestling, baseball, and track, attended the assembly. Additionally, a few students involved in leadership roles with the Associated Student Body (ASAB) and Link Crew were in attendance, showcasing the diverse interests and talents of the group.

Chief McDonald, a seasoned Coast Guard professional with expertise as an Electrician Mate, shared his personal journey and experiences with the students.

“My interest in the Coast Guard was sparked by a friend from the Marines,” McDonald explained. “After my oldest brother advised me against following his path into the Navy, I chose the Coast Guard, and it’s been a decision that has positively shaped my life.”

The assembly focused on dispelling common misconceptions about the Coast Guard and highlighting the unique benefits of joining. McDonald addressed the challenges of recruiting young people into the Coast Guard, particularly in a time when global conflicts and media portrayals can influence perceptions of the military.

“When people hear about the military, they often think of war and the negative aspects that come with it,” McDonald noted. “This can lead to parents discouraging their kids from considering the Coast Guard. But by increasing our presence in schools, we have the opportunity to have open conversations and show the differences between our branch and others.”

For the students at Mt. Whitney, many of whom were previously unaware of what the Coast Guard does, the assembly was an eye-opening experience.

“A lot of our kids didn’t know much about the Coast Guard, let alone what it does,” said Nathan Chamberlain, Head Varsity Football Coach at Mt. Whitney High School. “There was a lot of excitement and curiosity about the opportunities the Coast Guard could provide right out of high school.”

“The opportunity for kids to get paid out of high school while learning a skill or trade, or even making a career out of it, is significant,” Chamberlain emphasized. “It gives our students options they might not have considered before.”

McDonald also discussed the importance of diversity and inclusion within the Coast Guard, stressing that everyone, regardless of background, has an equal chance to succeed if they are qualified.

“Diversity is about having peers who share the same goals but pursue them in different ways,” McDonald said. “Let’s work together to help everyone achieve their goals in the most efficient way possible.”

Many of the students left with a newfound interest in exploring the Coast Guard as a potential career path.

“It’s important for our students to be exposed to different career options and to understand the potential they have to develop as leaders,” Chamberlain said. “This assembly was an excellent opportunity to shed light on the Coast Guard and what it offers.”

For students considering the Coast Guard but feeling uncertain, Chamberlain is ready to offer guidance.

“I would sit down with them and list the pros and cons, and we’d look at their short-term, long-term, and life goals to see what the best route would be for them in achieving those goals,” he said.

The U.S. Coast Guard assembly at Mt. Whitney High School was more than just an informational session—it was an inspiring event that broadened students’ horizons and provided them with valuable insights into a rewarding career path.

Arkadelphia High School recently hosted an assembly where students had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the U.S. Coast Guard from Machinery Technician 2nd Class Nicholas Rego. The event, facilitated by DistrictWON, included 10th, 11th, and 12th grade football players and provided a unique chance for these young athletes to explore the values, opportunities, and career paths within the Coast Guard.

MT2 Nicholas Rego, a 14-year veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, brought his experience to the assembly, sharing insights from his diverse roles in Search & Rescue, Law Enforcement, Drug and Migrant Interdiction, and Logistics.

“I joined the Coast Guard because I was influenced by a friend,” Rego explained. “It’s been an incredible journey that’s pushed me to raise my personal standards in terms of appearance, personality, and work ethic.”

The assembly inspired the football players to think about leadership and teamwork in new ways. Head Football Coach Trey Schucker reflected on the event’s impact, noting how beneficial it was for his team.

“Our players were able to gain new insight into what it means to be a part of something greater than themselves,” Schucker said. “They learned about how to overcome adversity and what it means to be a part of a team working towards a greater goal.”

Rego echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how the values of the Coast Guard align with those cultivated on the football field.

“In the Coast Guard, you are part of a team where everyone relies on each other,” Rego said. “Whether you’re out at sea on a rescue mission or working in logistics, you learn to overcome challenges together. That’s something I wanted to impress upon these students—that they can take those same teamwork skills and apply them to a career that’s fulfilling and impactful.”

The students were particularly surprised to learn about the wide range of roles available within the service, from cybersecurity and medical fields to scientific research.

“There’s a common misconception that the Coast Guard is just about Search & Rescue and law enforcement,” Rego pointed out. “But our service has so many different career paths. We need people with diverse skills and backgrounds to meet the varied needs of our missions.”

“Our students need opportunities like this to broaden their horizons on different career paths,” Coach Schucker emphasized. “The more they know about different careers, the more options they have to choose from. It’s important for them to be shown and given opportunities to ask questions and learn about different careers.”

Rego also took the opportunity to address students who might be considering the Coast Guard after graduation but have doubts.

“Get with a local recruiter, go online, and learn as much as you can. And if you’re serious about it, keep up with your physical fitness—that’s crucial for success in the Coast Guard.”Rego advised

He went on to highlight the personal and professional growth that comes with service.

“Joining the Coast Guard is more than just a job,” Rego said. “It’s a chance to grow as a person, to develop leadership skills, and to build lifelong friendships. You’ll gain experiences and skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life.”

Coach Schucker reinforced this message, encouraging his players to consider the Coast Guard as a viable and rewarding career path.

“I think the Coast Guard is a great option for students,” Schucker said. “It offers good pay right out of high school, valuable work experience, and a strong sense of community.”

Redwood High School’s varsity football team recently had the opportunity to engage with members of the U.S. Coast Guard during an assembly facilitated by DistrictWON. The event aimed to provide the student-athletes, who are among the top students and leaders on campus, with insights into the values of duty, service, and the wide array of career opportunities within the Coast Guard.

The assembly echoed the themes of duty and service that Coach Scharton regularly emphasizes.

“We talk all the time about duty and service, so this was a good supplement to those talks,” he remarked. The interaction provided a real-world perspective that reinforced these vital values for the students.

Chief Darryl McDonald, an Electrician Mate and Recruiter in Charge, shared his journey with the students. Inspired by a friend from the Marines and guided by his brother’s advice, Chief McDonald chose the Coast Guard and has since become a technical expert and leader.

“My interest in the Coast Guard was piqued by a friend from the Marines, after my oldest brother advised me against following his path and joining the Navy” he shared.

He highlighted the importance of having open conversations about military service to dispel misconceptions and showcase the unique aspects of the Coast Guard.

Many of the athletes were surprised by the diverse opportunities within the Coast Guard. From technical roles to leadership positions, the scope of careers available was an eye-opener.

“A number of our athletes were surprised by the opportunities afforded by the Coast Guard,” said Coach Scharton. “The Coast Guard talk provided an alternative option to consider for many of our athletes.”

Chief McDonald emphasized the Coast Guard’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“If you are qualified for the job, we want you to know that your chances are equal to your peers’,” he stated. This message highlighted the importance of a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Coach Scharton shared a personal connection to the military, mentioning his grandfather’s 20-year service in the Navy. He acknowledged the positive influence this had on his own life, reinforcing the benefits of military service. He encouraged students to talk to a recruiter for a clear understanding of the opportunities and benefits.

Chief McDonald encouraged students to explore the Coast Guard as a potential career path, stressing the importance of understanding their goals and concerns. “It’s important to be upfront about the challenges they may face and avoid sugar-coating the reality,” he said.

Coast Guard Assembly Resonates with Daphne High School Students

The U.S. Coast Guard recently held an assembly at Daphne High School, where Petty Officer 1st Class Jeremy Guerrero shared his experiences and insights with students, particularly those in the 9-12 grade football program. The event aimed to enlighten students about the opportunities within the Coast Guard, emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.

Petty Officer Guerrero, a reservist in the Maritime Enforcement rate, brought a wealth of experience to the assembly. With twenty years of service in the Coast Guard following six years in the Marine Corps Reserve, Guerrero’s journey reflects a profound commitment to serving the nation. He highlighted how the Coast Guard has profoundly impacted his life, providing a sense of fulfillment and pride.

“Serving with the Coast Guard has given me fulfillment and satisfaction that I have made a worthy contribution to country and service,” he shared.

Katie Clarke, assistant athletic director at Daphne High School, shared her positive impressions of the assembly. She praised Guerrero for his ability to connect with students, particularly by relating leadership and teamwork to their experiences in football.

“Jeremy Guerrero did a great job tying many analogies back into playing football and made it easy for our students to relate to his message,” Clarke said.

One of the key topics Guerrero addressed was the challenge of recruiting young people into the Coast Guard. He emphasized that partnerships with local high schools, like Daphne High School, facilitated by DistrictWON, are crucial in building relationships with students and staff. These partnerships allow recruiters to interact on a more active level with students, providing opportunities to dispel common misconceptions about the Coast Guard.

“Many people believe that Coast Guard members are always in the water or only live and work on boats,” Guerrero explained. “In reality, the Coast Guard offers a wide range of career opportunities, both on land and at sea, that require various skills and expertise.”

Guerrero also discussed the importance of integration and diversity within the Coast Guard. As the smallest branch of the U.S. military, the Coast Guard faces unique challenges. However, this size fosters a tight-knit community where all member’s contributions are vital.

“The Coast Guard is one team with multiple missions, and every member is expected to be a team player,” he stated.

The assembly highlighted the numerous benefits of joining the Coast Guard. Guerrero spoke about the continuous opportunities for education and training, which enable members to constantly improve themselves. The chance to live and work in various locations also helps members become versatile and well-rounded individuals.

“The personal and professional growth you will experience in the Coast Guard is unparalleled,” Guerrero noted.

To students considering joining the Coast Guard but who may have doubts, Guerrero offered encouraging words.

“Everyone needs a starting point, and nothing will happen until that step is made,” he advised.

He reassured students that the military could be a great starting point for those unsure about their future, providing a foundation until they figure out their next steps.

Clarke emphasized the importance of exposing high school students to various career options, noting that such assemblies help students understand the opportunities available to them as future leaders.

While Clarke did not have personal experience in the military, she acknowledged the legacy of service among many students’ families. Daphne High School often honors community members who serve, and this assembly was another way to help students appreciate what the Coast Guard offers.