Spokane students learn about military medical field

by Senior Airman Janelle Patiño
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

3/30/2015 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- The 92nd Medical Group hosted a Business AfterSchool Program to give students from Mead and Mt. Spokane High Schools the opportunity to learn about the military and the medical field March 26.

The program is a series of Industry Week Open House events for students, educators, parents and community organizations that provide on-site awareness of Spokane's high-demand industries highlighting new technology, research, development and innovation.

The 92nd MDG participates in this program annually. This year, the group hosted 15 students, three teachers and two representatives from the Greater Spokane Incorporated, Spokane Chamber of Commerce.

"Participants received briefings and tours from five different sections within the medical treatment facility," said Lt. Col. Troy McGill, the 92nd MDG Business AfterSchool Program representative. "Briefers shared several facts from what they do in the clinic, the training required and how they impact the Air Force mission."

According to McGill, their goal is to connect the students to business, military, medical or other areas they may have an interest in.

"The Air Force offers a great deal of opportunity to students who may want to enter a technical field right out of high school," said McGill. "Our medical technicians also work in all facets of health care from dental to flight medicine."

According to Airman 1st Class Nathan Dillow, a 92nd Medical Operations Squadron medical technician, it's good to help and give students advice on what options are available for them.

"It's a privilege to be able to help them get a step ahead in their decision making and not be stuck and not know what to do," Dillow said. "The program also gave us the opportunity to share what military life is all about and what types of opportunities are available for them whenever they decide to join."

Sanjay Kubsad, a senior student at Mead High School, said the program broadened his knowledge not just about the medical field but also about the military.

"I joined the program so I can explore different parts of the medical field, and I'm glad we got to visit the base and explore different facilities of the clinic," Kubsad said. "It's interesting to see what jobs and career paths are being offered in the military."

According to McGIll, participating in the program also serves as an outreach to the community.

"Fostering strong relationships with local communities is not only beneficial for the MDG but also for the base as a whole," McGill said.

For more information about the program, call Lt. Col. McGill at (509) 247- 8481.