ddd333 -

I did not network for years though I still know many in the business. It is well known that someone might not hear from you in years, not even the Christmas card, but that when the time comes that you might come calling for an internal recommendation and if all was good in the past then there should not be a problem getting a recommendation from them. That is the way that the industry works. Jetjock is right though in that it is their reputation though so don't be discouraged right away if someone seems a little weary of providing such at a moment's notice.

One reason I joined APC was to start a network and to reach out to other professionals in the business and learn something about professional aviation. Through the years here I have been fortunate enough to make some contacts who were very helpful in gaining knowledge and insight into the different aspects of professional aviation. Some offered actual recommendations, others offered contacts for information, I made a few phone calls to members who were working in the area that I was interested in, etc....

You are going about it in the right way - but take it slow and give people a chance to learn who you are and what you are about. I mean you are trying to build a professional relationship right? It isn't much different!

USMCFLYR