The Wyoming National Guard proudly celebrated the fourth successful year of its Educator Leadership Rendezvous (ELR) from July 30 to August 1, 2024, at the Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center. This annual event continues to play a pivotal role in fostering strong relationships between educators and Guard members, showcasing the National Guard as a promising career path for students and bolstering recruitment efforts.
The ELR offers educators an immersive experience into the National Guard’s operations and the diverse opportunities available to students after graduation. In turn, Guard members gain valuable insights into how they can better support schools and refine their recruitment strategies.
“By spending three days with us, educators get to see who we are and what we do,” said Master Sgt. Michael Palmer, the recruiting and retention superintendent for the Wyoming Air National Guard. “It’s a great relationship-building opportunity and helps show that the military is not a last-resort option but a viable career choice for the brightest and best.”
Madison Lacey, the teacher, leadership, and awards coordinator for the Wyoming Department of Education, who also helps coordinate the ELR, emphasized the significance of this collaboration. “This event opens educators’ eyes to the various pathways and opportunities the Guard provides. It’s a fantastic way to support our students and highlight the Guard as a valuable career option.”
Over the course of three days, educators and Wyoming Guard service members—many of whom are recruiters—engage in a range of activities. Although a planned C-130 plane ride was canceled due to local smoke conditions, participants enjoyed a Black Hawk helicopter ride, rappelling over cliffs, engaging in a weapons simulation, and other activities. The event concluded with a spirited paintball competition.
Each evening, Wyoming Guard leaders, including Brig. Gen. Steve Alkire (assistant adjutant general, Army), Brig. Gen. Justin Walrath (assistant adjutant general, Air), Command Senior Enlisted Leader Chief Master Sgt. Josh Moore, and Wyoming National Guard Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, addressed educators about the current state of the Guard and sought feedback on enhancing recruitment efforts.
“I find it very beneficial to hear from the adjutant general and other leaders about the realities of our world and the role both the military and schools play in shaping the future,” said Becky Junge, a fourth-grade teacher from Casper and a repeat participant of the ELR. “As educators, we have a role in presenting the military as a viable option for students, not just a last resort.”
Junge encourages fellow educators to attend the ELR. “It’s a professional development experience like no other. I strongly recommend every educator take the leap and participate.”
The ELR remains a cornerstone of the Wyoming National Guard’s efforts to build a bridge between education and military service, ensuring that students are well-informed about the opportunities available to them.
