Gov. Pillen, second from left, presents the ASVAB proclamation after its signing at Kearney High School, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Governor Jim Pillen signed an ASVAB proclamation during the College and Career Readiness Day at Kearney High School during the afternoon of Wednesday, March 4.
ASVAB is the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a timed multi-aptitude test required for U.S. military enlistment.
Planning for the event has been coordinated in partnership with USMEPCOM, the agency responsible for administering ASVAB testing across Nebraska.
“The proclamation underscores the importance of the ASVAB as a powerful career exploration tool that helps students better understand their interests, strengths, and potential career paths—both military and civilian,” per the Kearney Public Schools (KPS) district.
“Kearney Public Schools provides an especially fitting setting for an event of this importance,” said John Valasek of the USMEPCOM office in Omaha, the administrator overseeing ASVAB testing throughout Nebraska. “The district’s long-standing commitment to College and Career Readiness distinguishes it across the state, and CCR Day at Kearney High School is widely regarded as a model of excellence—offering students hands-on, real-world exposure to careers, postsecondary options, and community partnerships.”
The signing took place in Concert Hall and Theatre (CHaT) at KHS, in front of the school’s sophomore class.
Pillen spoke before the signing and said that the strength of Nebraska has always been its people. He encouraged the students to have a dream that they focus on and provide a “North Star” for the students as they navigate their education.
He said that the community of Kearney needs the students in the future, as does the state of Nebraska. Pillen said that the opportunities in the state are endless.
Prior to the signing, Pillen read the proclamation in part and said that it denotes March as ASVAB Career Exploration Month.
“CCR Day represents our commitment to helping every student see a future filled with possibility,” said KPS Superintendent Jason Mundorf. “The ASVAB is a powerful tool that helps students better understand their strengths and interests, opening doors to both civilian and military career pathways. We are honored to host Governor Pillen and to be part of a statewide effort that encourages students to thoughtfully explore and plan for life beyond high school.”
