Steele Chapter Expands Cadet Horizons at Air, Space & Cyber Conference

Space Force JROTC cadets from Arlington, Va., gained firsthand exposure to the future of aerospace and national defense during the AFA’s 2025 Air, Space & Cyber Conference.

The D.W. Steele Sr. Chapter hosted nine cadets from the Arlington Career Center’s Space Force JROTC unit, providing them with a unique opportunity to engage directly with cutting-edge technology, including flight simulators and emerging space systems.

“We are proud of the incredible partnership we have with this JROTC unit. They are members of Team Steele and take part in many of our chapter activities,” said Darian ‘DJ’ Padilla, Steele Chapter President.

The collaboration extends beyond the conference. The unit’s color guard will present the national colors at the chapter’s upcoming Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony, and cadets regularly support local events that help them build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

The Arlington Career Center program, one of only 10 Space Force JROTC units in the nation, currently includes about 90 cadets. Through the program, students develop essential life skills and a deeper understanding of aerospace careers that can shape their futures.

“The Steele Chapter has done much to support us, which has greatly benefitted our cadets,” said Scott Dierlam, JROTC instructor. “We have a great partnership and look forward to continuing our work together.”