In high school.

We live in northwest Colorado, 3 hours from Denver, 5 hours from Provo

He is very analytical, wants to go into engineering. School of mines is somewhat selective, good engineering program, has smart students. He's not super into sports so having a d1 team to cheer for wouldn't be high on his list. (He would enjoy going to games though if he were at BYU, which is his first choice). This would put him 2.5 hours from home.

Air Force, I think it's reputation speaks for itself. We have a couple in our ward who met in the air Force, only one went through the academy. They loved it, had great careers, retired with full pensions and lifetime health benefits at age 45, no school debt. They just travel and keep themselves busy with hobbies. There are a lot of options leaving school. Good reputation, and again about 4 hours from home. Not sure he could get into either of those if he doesn't get into BYU though.