104th Fighter Wing Hosts High School Exploration Day Published Aug. 2, 2009 By 010809 BARNES AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Massachusetts -- Members of the 104th Fighter Wing will be hosting their 5th annual High School Exploration Tours on May 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This year over 150 students from 5 high schools will participate in career-focused tours of the Air National Guard Base. The event organizers worked with high school guidance professionals to match the student's long-term interests with the many careers throughout the Massachusetts Air National Guard. Students will learn about the unique missions and career opportunities at the 104th Fighter Wing, the 102nd Intelligence Wing, and the 212th Engineering Installation Squadron. The following schools and organizations will be participating in the event: Putnam Vocational HS (AFJROTC) Dean Technical HS (AFJROTC) Chicopee HS (AFJROTC) Worcester South HS (AFJROTC) Chicopee Comprehensive HS (Culinary Arts) Southwick Tolland Regional HS (School to Career Program) "The Air National Guard provides tremendous opportunities for personal growth and professional development. It is important for us, as role models and members of the community, to work with these high school students and show them the benefits of education and practical experience. The citizen-airmen throughout Massachusetts are proud of what they do for the commonwealth and the nation, and they embrace any opportunity they have to share what they have learned," said Technical Sergeant Gabe Kushin, Air National Guard Recruiter. "The students will have a chance to learn what it takes to prepare themselves for successful careers." In addition to the shadowing opportunities, 10 students from the Chicopee Comprehensive High School's culinary class will be working with the 104th Services Flight to prepare lunch for the students participating in the tour. #30# Members of the media are welcome to cover this event. Please coordinate with Capt Matthew Mutti at (413) 568-9151 x 1263 to make arrangements