I've been in aviation nearly 15 years in one form or another, pilot, mechanic, support, scratching my way up from a ramp rat, paying my education through hard work and long hours. All of my degrees and licenses will add up to about $85,000, all paid without loan or debt or help from parents or spouse. I take great pride in my accomplishments, and I know that most could not have followed my path.

I also knew that the intended target, good pay, good hours, was a shrinking one, and my values have changed. I was no longer willing to sacrifice my friends, my loved ones and my passions for a command at a bigger plane and the "possibility" of advancement.

It was clear that my future was not in aviation, especially not as a pilot. The problem was how to leave a life long career without going bankrupt. I had pondered this for 5 years and finally, my decision was made for me. I was fired because of my "attitude". Not because I was unsafe, but because I didn't follow the party line. I could have fought it, but I really didn't want to stay.

Unemployment paid my bills, and the Workforce Investment Act paid for my schooling as a Server Administrator. All my tests passed, new certificates in my pocket off to a new career.

But, I.T. has similar problems as aviation, too many people willing to work long hours, holidays for minimal pay just to gain experience. If I have 5 years experience and an alphabet soup of certificates, I could muster between $10-15/hr. It reminded me of the regional airlines but worse in some ways since the technology changed every 3-5 years. For comparison, I can easily make double that as an administrative assistant walking some CEO's dog. It's still a strange world.

Somehow, I found a way. I've found more than one position requiring my combined skills. My chosen field is still in I.T. but in a niche market where is pay is modest, but acceptable, health care provided, day shift, week days, and all holidays off. All of this on day one. And the best part, I have only one boss.

Will I miss the long hours, massive fatigue, boredom, politics, bad weather, delays, TSA, customs, coach tickets, uniform, endless paperwork, laughably incompetent management, hurry up and wait, and the long list of inconveniences?
No, not even a bit.

When I go to renew my medical, I won't be concerned if I pass. To get on the airport, I will walk through an open gate, and leave when I feel like it. I will be #1 or #2 for take off and I'll even have a tower to talk to, sometimes.

I don't want to go back to where the joy was sucked dry from the dream. Keep the "dream job" trap for the next group of kids rushing to fill the "void" of the next "pilot shortage".

If asked: "why don't you fly professionally"
I can happily respond: "it wasn't for me"
and be absolutely sure.

CE