Officers tell students about importance of education at Career Safari

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Vernon Cunningham
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The message from three 80th Flying Training Wing officers to more than 1,400 students was clear at the March 6 Career Safari for junior-high students - education is important.

Capt. Lucas Gruenther, 1st Lt. David Mitchell and 2nd Lt. Jeremy Curbey attended the safari to tell students about the Air Force and how education can lead to one of the best experiences of their lives.

"If you want to go to work and enjoy your job, do well in school," said Captain Gruenther, a T-37 instructor pilot. "Then you can do a job you enjoy."

The officers shared their Air Force experiences with the students and showed off some of the items they use on a daily basis, such as a G-suit and helmet. Some students even had the opportunity to don the gear as a brief simulation as to the pilots' daily grind.

One officer who showed how education leads to advancement was Lieutenant Curbey, who is currently awaiting pilot training at the 80th FTW. He told the students that at one time he was a crew chief with the Air Force's Aerial Demonstration Team, the Thunderbirds. Through perseverance, he earned his degree and became an officer in the Air Force.

"We are out here to represent Sheppard Air Force Base and promote education; to show how important it is in their lives," he said. "It's important to set goals and pat attention in school to achieve goals later in life."

Apparently those words didn't fall on deaf ears. When asked what he learned from the officers, 13-year-old Burkburnett Middle School student Markel King was quick to respond.

"Do well in school," he said. "Pay attention in class and keep up your grades."

For 14-year-old Chelsea Bonnin, another BMS student, her thoughts were on the end result.

"It's not all just work," she said. "It could be fun, too."

Students from surrounding communities attended the one-day career safari at the Multi-Purpose Events Center to get a head start on future career opportunities.