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Students around the KMC flooded servicemembers’ offices and workplaces Feb. 5 for Job Shadow Day to learn about different career fields throughout the military.
From firefighters to health technicians, Job Shadow Day gave students a taste of what it’s like to work in a specific career field through events held at Ramstein, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Volgeweh and Sembach Annex.
“I hope Job Shadow Day ties together school and the workplace,” said Jenifer Green, 435th Mission Support Group assistant schools liaison. “I hope the students see how school relates to the workplace. The specific studies they learn relate to jobs later in life, and this is what the day is designed to show them.”
“It gives them motivation to do well in school,” Ms. Green added. “Job Shadow Day allows the students to see the meaning of going to school. They can see there is a goal to work toward.”
Base leadership was among the many who were excited for this teaching experience.
“It’s important children know the jobs in the Air Force for future career paths,” said Col. Don Bacon, 435th Air Base Wing commander, who also brought his children Jessica and Austin to work. “We are proud of the work we do, so we like to show the children our mission.”
Military members weren’t the only ones excited for this opportunity. The students also shared in the excitement.
“It’s good that I have the chance to do this today,” said Joshua Randel, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadet, who shadowed Colonel Bacon. “I like the military, and I wanted to see what it’s like to be a commander – it’s awesome.”
Job Shadow Day was a great occasion for the students to learn not only what others do, but also what their parents do at their job.
“I really like the experience of Job Shadow Day,” said Tori Hall, daughter of Jackie Bellard, Child Development Center child development program assistant. “It gave me a chance to experience what my mother does every day at the Ramstein Child Development Center. Working with young infants is really hard work, but I had fun playing and interacting with them.”
Throughout the day, the students picked up a few tips from the people they were shadowing.
“I have learned not to dillydally and be late for work,” said third-grader Tara Green, daughter of Col. Gus Green, 435th Air Base Wing vice commander.
Job Shadow Day showed students they can be whatever they want to be when they grow up, and the possibilities are endless.
“The most important thing for my daughter to realize is all avenues are open for her in the United States Air Force,” Colonel Green said. “Whatever she wants to do, she can. It is really up to her. There are no limits to what she can become.”
The day gave parents and children alike information to help with future choices.
“I believe it is important for parents to go back and discuss Job Shadow Day with their children,” Ms. Green said. “When they follow up and talk about what their kids have learned, it stays on their mind. It doesn’t matter if their children are younger or getting ready to go to college – these things they have learned will help bridge the gap between school and work.”
