The U.S. Army Yuma Certification Site (YPG) is really making an effort to connect with local students. The employees genuinely enjoy sharing the YPG mission, often explaining things in a fun and accessible manner.
YPG has recognized that local employees, especially those from the area, tend to stick around for quite a while. Because of this, they’re eager to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among students, hoping it’ll lead them toward a career in those fields.
“I want to inspire and encourage these students in STEM,” said Janett Rios, who coordinates YPG’s outreach efforts in this area.
In January, YPG collaborated with several local schools and organizations to teach students about their testing mission. It was a great opportunity for hands-on learning.
At the Orange Grove Elementary School Science Day, which took place on January 15, 2025, YPG soldiers and engineers introduced students to various labs. One showcased a glider project where students could throw the gliders and measure their time and distance. Another lab featured a robot that danced, which turned out to be a crowd favorite.
Sergeant Christian Ramirez, part of the Skyborne Test Force, demonstrated the parachute used by test jumpers while explaining his role as a Medic. Edgar Haltado and Karen Wilkes also shared insights about their careers as engineers, adding to the event’s educational value.
A week later, on January 24, 2025, Teresa Elizalde and Janett Rios from YPG’s workforce development division participated in a career fair at H.L. Suverkrup, contributing to one of many booths focused on career exploration.
On the same day, YPG personnel took part in the third annual Career and Technical Education event organized by Yuma County Public Works and the Center for Future in Arizona. Staff Sergeant Angel Viveros, a rigger/test jumper, and Sergeant Christian Ramirez, a Medic, were present to discuss their experiences as parachute testers. They were joined by Carlos Anaya, the chief engineer of the Airlines branch. Organizers reported attendance of about 250 middle and high school students from various parts of Yuma County, extending south to San Luis and east to Roll’s antelope.
