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IN FOCUS: Senior Airman Jessica Kopecko, 419th FSS

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Crystal Charriere
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  Senior Airman Jessica Kopecko is a customer support journeyman in the 419th Force Support Squadron. She makes ID cards, helps people update their marriage information, and assists with an array of personnel actions. She joined the Air Force Reserve after three years on active duty so she could pursue a career caring for horses while still serving in the military. Public affairs recently sat down with Kopecko to learn more about her.

When did your love for horses begin?

I've had horses all my life. I started riding when I was two years old. A few years later, I began training and competing in events. I did dressage, which is almost like dancing with your horse. I also did show jumping and cross-country events.

What made you want to work with horses?

I had one horse named Godiva that I raised and trained myself that I was very close to. She was hit by a car a few years ago. I've taken her to multiple vets and there's not much else they can do for her. I really wanted to help her, so I went to school to get the education to do so. Now I'm doing what I can to make her better and she's starting to heal. I thought, "If I can help this horse, why can't I help other horses?"

Tell me more about your civilian job.

I'm a farrier, which means I mainly work on horses' hooves. I trim and put shoes on their hooves so that they will have a better stance and have a natural balance so they don't get injured. Working with horses is like second nature to me. It's like driving a car or riding a bike; I don't have any questions, and no one has to tell me what to do. Horses are so healing for your heart, and working with them keeps me centered.

Why did you join the Air Force Reserve?

I wanted to be able to go to school so I could make horses a career instead of a hobby. The Reserve allowed me to do that while still serving in the military.