Originally Posted by
C-17 Driver
The guys we have been picking up started the process and networking much more than a year out. Many squadrons are at desired manning levels, so open slots are few and far between.
Guards reserve jobs are not a given.
This right here.
Being proactive and precise planning is key to success. I rushed the reserve units when I was still on AD (2 years out) and was hired before I separated. I communicated with the reserve unit what I was doing (planning on getting passed over twice by not doing PME) and they were cool with the idea but did inform me that I needed the PME completed before coming over since I still needed to be promotable in the reserves. I was also offered a job with my choice airline just before separating and was in class during terminal leave. All this was happening with stop loss in effect. Of course, stop loss was eventually lifted. I was very blessed.
I recommend having multiple backup plans. Remember Murphy's law!