If anyone here is to become laid off and is considering a career change I highly advise you take full advantage of what the government has to offer. After 9-11 I got one year of unemployment insurance, free health insurance for my wife and children and offers to be retrained as a truck driver, short order cook and welder at the governments expense.

I took the 737 type because it was within driving distance. My first choice was to be retrained as an accountant however the local university would not cooperate with the program. The point is that as a newly laid off professional worker the powers that be are willing to do a lot for you.

Each state varies though. Do your research. Apply for stuff. Find out now what is offered before you get the ax. Have a fall back plan. Move if you have to. Sell stuff. Get ready. Make lists of jobs you could do and careers that you are interested in. Call friends and ask if you would be of service in their industries. Study different professions. Tour companies, trade schools and colleges. Consider starting a business while you are still working as a pilot. Think about refinancing your home. Read books on stuff that could facilitate your plan. Your could use this unfortunate situation as an advantage to transform your life.

Make a solid plan and you will feel stronger and have more confidence if the end comes. Get your family ready to act. Move past any ego issues you may have about government assistance and remember that you have paid a fortune in taxes and will continue to do so. The government is not shy about taking your money so when it is time you step up and get as much of it back as you can. The money is there for you to use when you need it.

Plan the work then work the plan.

SkyHigh