Military service and higher education often appear as separate paths, yet they share common values such as discipline, leadership, and lifelong success. This was highlighted during a recent U.S. Air Force recruiter training session at Walsh University, where Staff Sergeants Kurt Kumhall and Jacob Derry discussed how these paths complement each other and the university's role in aiding service members transitioning to civilian careers.

Walsh University, recognized as a Military Friendly School and Purple Heart designated institution, hosted the training on its campus. The environment provided recruiters like Kumhall and Derry an opportunity to refine their skills in engaging potential recruits across high schools nationwide.

“Reaching our recruitment goals isn’t just about numbers; it’s about being present in the community and building trust,” said Derry. “The U.S. Air Force is on track to meet its recruitment goals for fiscal year 2025, and we credit this success to our active presence in communities like this one.”

Kumhall, who focuses his recruiting efforts in North Canton, Uniontown, and Green areas, stressed the importance of forming personal connections with potential recruits. “We try to be relatable, showing them that we’re real people with normal lives,” he explained.

The Air Force offers various opportunities appealing to young individuals including competitive pay, travel prospects, and earning a college degree while serving. Kumhall noted that returning to higher education after military service can be challenging for veterans but emphasized the support provided by institutions like Walsh University is invaluable.

Derry pointed out Walsh University's commitment to veterans through Joshua Ruiz, Coordinator of Veterans Affairs at Walsh and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran himself. “What sets Walsh apart is having someone like Joshua who walks alongside veterans and helps them navigate the benefits they’ve earned,” Derry said.

Ruiz has been instrumental in inviting military groups to utilize Walsh’s facilities for training purposes. This collaboration not only provides space for military recruiters but also highlights the support offered by Walsh to students and veterans alike.

A testament to this support is Matthew Voegele, a biology major at Walsh University whose encounter with Master Sgt. Fox during the training opened new avenues for his future career in the Air Force. Voegele shared how meeting Master Sgt. Fox changed his perspective on pursuing a career as an aerospace physiologist within the Air Force.

Voegele expressed gratitude towards Walsh University faculty members including Joshua Ruiz and President Tim Collins for their encouragement throughout his journey toward an Air Force career despite challenges faced along the way.