Originally Posted by
RedBaron007
I was wondering what everyone's thoughts are on taking a systems training program. I'm thinking of this as not only a way to get into the game a bit earlier, but also an opportunity to better learn the systems of the aircraft and know the airplane better once I would get hired
I'd probably skip the opportunity to attend an aircraft specific training course on my own dime. Part 121 carriers are required to provide you with initial training on a specific aircraft, so I always like to let them pay for it.
I think it's a good idea for any pilot to continuously improve their professional credential, that said, it doesn't have to cost anything. If you're looking to study systems I would concentrate on general concepts instead of aircraft specific installations of the systems.
If you showed up on day one of training and had a good working knowledge of generic electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems as installed in transport category aircraft you'd be fine.
The biggest problem I see studying a specific aircraft is that you're betting you'll be hired by a company that operates that aircraft. I'm sure there would be transfer of knowledge in terms of theory going through such a school, but I would suggest trying to be a generalist on the concept of systems and not a specialist on a specific airframe.