Students at Tohopekaliga High School got a glimpse into the world of naval aviation, humanitarian efforts, and technology last week as the U.S. Navy brought its traveling “Strike Group” mixed reality experience to the school, giving students a firsthand look at what it means to work in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
The traveling experience, which is making its way around schools across the country, aims to give students a firsthand look at what it means to work in the Navy today, from aircraft carriers to disaster relief efforts around the world, while also showcasing educational opportunities such as the Navy’s ROTC scholarship program, which is worth up to $180,000.
Students cycled through three stations using virtual reality headsets, interactive maps, and a full-motion flight simulator to get a firsthand look at what it means to work in the Navy.
For sophomore Aiden Collazo, the best part was how realistic it was.
“It didn’t feel like a game,” Collazo said after experiencing the aircraft carrier simulation. “You actually had to work together and communicate. It made you realize how many different people and jobs it takes just to get one jet in the air.”
The “All Hands” station put five students on the virtual flight deck of the USS Gerald R. Ford. Students wearing Meta Quest headsets took on roles from fueling planes to flying helicopters, working together to launch an F-35C Lightning II fighter jet.
In another area, the “Support” experience highlighted Naval humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. Students interacted with an electronic world map to choose ships and vehicles to explore how the Navy brings support to communities in need because of natural disasters, conflict, or medical emergencies.
The “Fly” experience, a fullmotion flight simulator that put students in the cockpit of an F-35C, allowed students to embark from an aircraft carrier, complete a training mission and try a carrier landing.
According to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Jacksonville Petty Officer 1st Class Jackie Hart, Strike Group’s aim is to connect with students on their level, using technology they are already familiar with.
“Today’s students are digital natives,” Hart said. “This experience shows them that the Navy isn’t just about ships and uniforms. It’s about advanced technology, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that translate directly into STEM careers, whether they serve one tour or make it a lifetime.”
And, it created a classroom connection. Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Fred Morrow, the school’s senior naval science instructor, said the Strike Group experience gives students a better understanding of what it means to serve.
“In the classroom, we talk about leadership, responsibility, and careers,” Morrow said. “This brings it to life. Students can actually see themselves in those roles, working as part of something bigger.”
Collazo said the visit opened his eyes to new possibilities.
“I didn’t really think about the Navy before,” he said. “Now I’m actually curious about what I could do with technology and engineering.”
The Navy’s Strike Group tour continues its Florida stops over the coming weeks, with the mission of inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and leaders—one headset at a time.
