I seem to not be able to get my point across very well. I was trying to say that being able to fly on the side without losing a days pay at the primary job helped. I agree guys going out and doing a flight for little to nothing just to build time does none of us any good. I was paid what I and others considered to be a good rate for the aircraft I was flying. It just made it a little easier financially to make the transition.
I agree with everyone, keep working hard, make connections, and it can all work out.

Originally Posted by mswmsw
Not sure if I am reading this the right way, but, if you are taking a "far reduced pay rate" to fly anything professionally, I think that you are doing yourself and the industry a disservice


OK, got it. Will I find your name in the ALEA Member database? If so, PM me, I can tell you some interesting stories of guys that went from cop to pilot (and back!), pros and cons, etc. I did it in reverse...... full time professional pilot to cop, almost 35 years ago.