NORTH SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Recruiters from the 313th Recruiting Squadron recently demonstrated how they bring the Air Force Recruiting Service mission—inspire, engage and recruit—to life through meaningful community outreach.
From Feb. 19–21, Tech. Sgts. Andrew Lindaman and Joshua Griffith, both 313th RCS recruiters assigned to G Flight, led a series of engagements that included two school visits and a weekend appearance at Snocross, a popular snowmobile racing series.
They understand that successful recruiting is built not on cold calls or paperwork, but on genuine human connection. It requires getting out into the community, meeting people where they are, and building trust—an approach Brig. Gen. Jeffrey W. Nelson, commander of the Air Force Accessions Center and Air Force Recruiting Service, strongly supports.
“It’s important to be involved because it forms a connection between the recruiter and their community, whether it’s through influencers or applicants themselves,” Nelson said. “They need to become a trusted person so they can be invested in the lives of these civilians and help them make the best decision when it comes to joining the Air Force. Recruiters also need to leverage their experience and knowledge of their community to engage with the youth of America differently in different parts of the country.”
Joining Griffith and Lindaman were Tech. Sgt. Jamie Gardner, noncommissioned officer in charge for the Kansas Joint Force Headquarters and one of the Air Force’s 2025 Outstanding Airmen of the Year, along with Steve Scheuring, owner of Scheuring Speed Sports, who brought team members and snowmobiles to share with students.
The school visits brought Nelson’s message to life. Through trivia, T‑shirt giveaways, and lively exchanges with Scheuring’s team, the recruiters created an environment where students felt comfortable asking questions. They connected Air Force opportunities to real‑world situations the students could relate to, sparking genuine curiosity.
Gardner reinforced their message by sharing her own journey as an OAY winner, emphasizing that success is possible for anyone willing to pursue it.
“I wanted them to see that I was once someone who had no idea what I wanted to do with my life,” Gardner said. “I wanted them to know they can secure a future for themselves. I didn’t know if I could when I was in their position, and I was able to get to this level. This is something they can achieve as well.”
Students later met with the racing team and explored the snowmobiles, leading many to request additional information about Air Force opportunities.
“Events like school visits are how we engage with students and faculty who might not know what the Air Force can provide,” Lindaman said. “Getting our face out there and letting people know how we can help our community and help kids build a better life is our number one priority. You can’t replace the human connection you get with face‑to‑face interactions.”
The final day of Snocross highlighted another key aspect of recruiting: celebrating those who choose to serve. Nelson administered the Oath of Enlistment to delayed entry program members in front of a packed grandstand, a moment that carries both tradition and strategic impact.
“It’s great to recognize our up‑and‑coming Airmen before they leave for basic training,” Lindaman said. “It’s good for families, and it helps us generate leads and interest. When these members tell their family and friends about this awesome thing they were able to do with their recruiter, those people come back to us as well.”
Developing a prospective applicant into a future Airman is a deliberate, often demanding process. Recruiters work long hours, weekends, and around applicants’ schedules. But the payoff—watching someone grow in confidence and purpose—is what keeps them going.
“It’s an incredible feeling,” Griffith said. “After the swearing‑in ceremony, one of my applicant’s parents thanked me for everything I’d done to help their child join the Air Force. It’s a lot of hard work, time and dedication, but it’s absolutely worth it. Seeing them take the Oath of Enlistment before they leave for basic training is extremely rewarding.”