Twelve Kansas high school juniors and seniors joined recruiters from the 190th Air Refueling Wing - Kansas Air National Guard, Topeka, May 7 for Coyote Day. The students and their family members toured the base as Airmen shared their experiences and knowledge to generate interest in the Kansas Air National Guard and the many career fields offered by the 190th ARW.
“We have positions that can fit almost anyone,” said Tech. Sgt. Lisa Tillman, 190th ARW recruiter.
Recruiting and wing leadership worked closely with 190th Security Forces, Transportation, Civil Engineering, Fuels Flight, Logistics Readiness Squadron, and Public Affairs to give the students and parents a first-hand perspective of what it is like to be a Kansas Air National Guard Airman.
“The more personal one-on-one with your family members is important,” said Tillman. “I think the parents really enjoyed that aspect. This also gets their influencers on base to see what their son, daughter, or grandchild is interested in. Seeing it is way more beneficial than talking about it.”
The three-hour experience included an aircraft tour, testimony from newly graduated Airmen, a base tour, lunch and the opportunity to test out the Boom Operating System Simulator. Tillman said the recruiting office was able to make several appointments with some of the students.
Tillman credited the efforts of the 190th ARW Airmen who made the event a success.
“That's what I truly love about the 190th Air Refueling Wing,” said Tillman. “These members shared their passion with a large group of juniors, seniors and their families.”