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Military enrollment on the rise, local ROTC program reflects on increase in recruits

Military enrollment is on the rise nationwide. The trend of increased interest in military service is reflected in the McDowell High School Air Force Junior ROTC program, which has seen a significant increase in student participation. The Director of McDowell High School's Air Force Junior ROTC says he works with military recruiters who say a recent surge in enrollment numbers follows a previous decline. 'A handful of years ago, their numbers were way down and they're going up very noticeably,' said Major John Nygaard, Director of McDowell High School's Air Force Junior ROTC. The ROTC program at McDowell High School currently has 80 students enrolled, with expectations to grow to 120 students next year. City of Erie Police highlight crisis unit during Mental Health Awareness Month The increased interest in military careers is evident as four graduates have already enlisted, and three others are entering college ROTC programs or service academies. Caleb Vough, one of the students, has enlisted in the United States Air Force and is set to become an Aerospace propulsion specialist, working on jet engines. Danika Bierer, another student, is enrolled in the Merchant Marine Academy, where she plans to study marine engineering or transportation. Students like Caleb Vough see the military as a practical path to gain education and skills with minimal debt, while Danika Bierer appreciates the job security that comes with her career choice. 'It has to be taken seriously' — New PA law will soon impact drivers Major Nygaard attributes the increase in enrollment to students' desire to join a force focused on readiness and lethality, which resonates with many young people today. The surge in ROTC enrollment at McDowell High School highlights a growing trend among students to pursue military careers, driven by both practical considerations and a sense of purpose. All facts from this article were gathered by WJET/WFXP journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by WJET/WFXP staff. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.