Keep this in mind - From everythng I have read the 65 age mandatory retirements will start to really kick in over the next two years and hiring should start to really pick up. That coupled with the 1500 mins will make things very interested. If the goal is to get to the majors, the Regionals may be an option for you as well.

The bottom line is that a pilot shortage for the airlines seem to be on the horizon.

 

Visit all the units you can. You never know which one will stick. The pilots there will give you all the free advice you can take. Everyone has a different story of how they got there. The main theme of those stories will usually be persistence. Go visit baseops. net and read their UPT advice. Millions of stories there. Realize one thing, however. Once you enlist there is no guarantee that you will become a pilot. You are also their Biatch for the next six years with some caveats.

 

I want to thank everyone for their advice! I have finished the ASVAB and received a 70. Went through MEPS and learned that I qualified for the Loadmaster position on the C-17 Globemaster! I sign the contract next week. It comes with a sign on bonus and Gi-Bill Kicker. Serving will also cover 100% of tuition! When I get my bachelors, I will be trying for a pilot slot! I can also train on the civilian side with the Montgomery GI Bill since I am already a PPL/IR.

 

My first post on APC, but I'll speak to what I know. Please read this as an option as to what is possible.

I enlisted AD Air Force with a PPL with the plan to learn an aviation trade, use TA money for school and complete my ratings within the first two years. I hoped to have all of my instructor ratings and at least an associates at the two-year point, then transfer to a reserve/guard unit for 4 years while I worked as a CFI...then use my MGIB. It's a great plan, but not what I did.

They made me a crew chief on fighters which did several things. I was able to get my A&P, two-years of school knocked out, and I did complete my ratings through CFI...but this took nearly 4 years. How things changed? What I saw on a daily basis were young, groups of best friends, stepping to and dashing off in some of the cooling things I'd ever seen. This was now what I wanted to do, and I figured I could always fly a big airplane...you only get this chance once. After separation, I enrolled in a 2 year ROTC program, worked on the side as an A&P and CFI, and completed my degree and commission.

My career was average. I retire this year with a pension, medical for life, 2K PIC in fighters, instructor time, evaluator time and a lot of experience in project and program management. Best of all, I've made many great friends, and I have memories that will last a lifetime. Now who knows? Why do I say all of this...

Worst case depending on your perspective. Schooling you are required to complete equals college credit. TA pays for 75% of tuition while you are in. They feed you, house you and pay you (to do your civilian flying) and this is before touch your $50K+ GI Bill money...and the cost of all of this is to do good important things with good people

Don't be intimidated by the service commitments. It's basically a job you can't leave, but its a great job...and surprisingly good money.

My advice...pic a unit who flies something you want to fly. Continue your aviation pursuits, even if just for leisure. Get good grades, stay out of trouble, work hard at work and be someone other people like to be around. If you do this, they will sponsor you through your UPT endeavors and you will end up a squadron pilot. Like most things govt. once your in, you'll have many options.

Hope this helps...

 

Disagree....follow your dream don't let anyone change your mind.......it is tough, but if you want it, and go for it, you can achieve it........just saying....

 

Find a local ANG or USAFR unit... they would talk to you.

 

Gunga... gunga galunga...

 

The military, if all else fails, will give you a sense of belonging and purpose.

 

Congrats on being selected to be a C-17 Loadmaster. I was a C-130 Loadmaster active duty and was able to get a pilot slot. I now fly the C-17. It's a great aircraft and awesome job. You may discover that being a Load is where you want to stay. I would have happily stayed as a Load for 20 years if I didn't get selected for UPT. I assume you got in with the NYANG guys. There are some great guys up there. I know many of them from their active duty days. Do a good job as a load, be a good dude and I'm sure you'll reach your goals. Good luck!

 

Thank you and yes! It is with the 105th Airlift Wing in Newburgh. I was surprised at how many people I knew or knew someone in my family. It is like a club there.