Laughlin members showcase Air Force opportunities at career fair

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Patrick O'Neill
  • 47 Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Del Rio Civic Center was buzzing with local students across all grades and their families Feb. 26 for the San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District annual district-wide career fair.

Members of Team XL volunteered their time to share information about their respective jobs.

The career fair was not only a recruiting opportunity, but a chance for Laughlin members to showcase what the base brings to the community of Del Rio and what they do on a day-to-day basis.

Laughlin sent pilots, medical professionals, security forces members, contracting members, communications personnel and the command post operators to the fair.

"The fair was very well attended, and I saw a lot of student interest. This was a great chance to help the community and tell them what we at Laughlin are all about," said Lt. Col. Gregory Thurgood, 47th Flying Training Wing inspector general staff.

Lieutenant Col. Thurgood showcased the pilot career field, telling students the path to take in order to become an Air Force pilot. He also brought along a helmet, which he allowed local students to try on.

The 47th Security Forces squadron representatives also brought a weapons display, which attracted much interest.

Technical Sgt. Armondo Daniel, Air Force recruiter in Del Rio, said local leaders complimented Laughlin's booth at the fair and the variety of career fields showcased.

"It was better than last year. We showed the community the different opportunities the Air Force has to offer," said Tech. Sgt. Daniel.

"Students were excited to have the opportunity to speak to the individuals present to ask individual questions and build network relationships," said Dianne Trevino, SFDRCISD Career and Technical Education coordinator. "Having the vehicles displayed as well as the weapon display brought special interest to the crowd."

The SFDRCISD annual career fair continues to grow each year. This year was no exception, with 76 companies represented, including Laughlin Air Force Base.