Originally Posted by F15AvionicsTech
Just a quick question - I'm MX at an F-15 Unit here, and 5 of our pilots fly for Fed Ex. Any suggestions on ways I can start to 'network' ? I'd hate to miss the opporunity but I don't really have a good idea on how to approach them without looking like I'm out to get something from them. Not to mention the most convienent corrospondence would be through e-mail. Thanks!
Pilots generally tend to help an aspiring aviator when it comes to imparting advice. Sending a blind email to someone is easy and convenient; but not the best way. Emails, no matter how well written tend to be impersonal. Best time to approach the pilots is when you have done your job well and get into a personal conversation with them. Don’t be too direct. Just talk about your present flying and desire to be a professional pilot. See what they say. Some will volunteer to help and others will not. Nurture a personal relationship with the ones who respond.
Aviation and especially General Aviation where you are building up your time is a small community; there will be plenty of times to network. Enhance your abilities in this area. Just as important to developing your airmanship and stick/rudders skills, is the development of your people skills. Dale Carnegie books are a good resource.
Instructing (if you desire to do this) is an excellent way to build up your people skills.
Good Luck!