Originally Posted by tradepointryan

Hey everyone!

I had a few questions about getting a pilot slot. I will explain where I am at as far as qualifications first. I did the flight school gig and some instructing for a little bit so I am coming out of that with a Commercial w/ Instrument, CFI (all SEL), and 340 hrs. I am an active duty Loadmaster on the 17 right now and have 3 years left. I have a clean record. I still have to finish my "professional aeronautics" degree, which will be about 3 more years but it is easy stuff. This is where I might have a snag... I am 25 and will be 28/29 when I get it all done. I am concerned whether I will be able to get in the seat by the cutoff or not. I am active so I do know that anything can be waived. Since I am on the 17, I am looking to stay with the 17. I am in the progress of getting everything ready to go to get some CAP flying in my logbook to cover me as far as volunteering. Do I have enough qualifications to not even worry about the age waiver (AD/RES)? Is it worth it to go active and run the risk of getting a different jet? I guess I am just wondering how valuable of a candidate I would be, in their eyes, pending the tests of course. Is there anywhere anyone can point me to for reference/guide for putting together my package so I can start planning now. When should I start talking to someone so I can make a smooth transition from the enlisted side when my time is done?

Thanks for all your help everyone!!!