Steverin06,

you said you’ve got a year before you would need to opt out of an assignment and separate from AD. That’s plenty of time to get yourself ready. First of all, start saving aggressively. Don’t buy that new car, watch what you do spend, Plan on being at 1st year pay.

Next, as previously mentioned, do whatever you can to log more hours.

Also start shopping yourself to various Air National Guard and AF Reserve units. Call and ask about future hiring, when upcoming Drill weekends are scheduled, and then visit the units on those Drill weekends. Bring donuts, and/or beer. Rush the units.

What’s a good unit for you? The one that will hire you. Where do you live, or want to live? Most certainly don’t limit yourself to a unit flying your current aircraft. Or even just a fighter unit. My AFRES unit hired folks from all services and airframes, to include helo, to train in the C-5. Often that meant 8-12 months of full-time pay for training and seasoning. And lots of hours.

Your destiny might require a term in the regionals. No harm there. It will certainly improve your resume, and prepare you for crew ops and future 121 training programs.

Good luck!