Took me over a year to get educated, prepped for interviews, and hired before I retired last summer. My timing worked out very well but I controlled the things I could and relied on a large dose of luck and help from a host of folks. Many of my posts will cover some of what you are looking for. I have personally helped a long list of others start the same journey. Some I have to spoon feed and others do their homework. I spent hours on here as well as going to lunch with old squadron mates who had done the airline gig years before me. There is a lot to digest and I am now just understanding what folks mean by QOL as far as what your contract allows you do/not do. Airline job is easy compared to my last 26 years and the best part is being home with my youngest kids with time to hang out and be their dad. I worked 14 days this month--half on reserve at home and half flying...and am off the next two weeks.