Unit#8192

@JustHangingOut @CharlieHotel47 I'd recommend sending these two gentleman a PM as they're two well known members here who went from Army to AF Guard/Reserve (If I'm not mistaken). As suggested get your AFOQT/TBAS test knocked out if you haven't (search on here for study prep), and join The pilot network on (TPN) on facebook. Search for posts concerning this topic or make your own on there as there are several people that have made the switch. Good luck!

I'm no Sir yet, appreciate you being polite/respectful though! Also, I'm a candidate without a slot just like you so I'm just sharing what I've picked up from lurking on here for awhile, and the other recommended groups. As LNGH stated you have several more years for heavies. Basically, don't worry about what you're not able to control (Age) and continue trying to move the needle/progress as a human being. Do some more searching around on here, Bogidope and join TPN (The pilot network on facebook) for more reading. Happy hunting.

Also, checkout https://www.bogidope.com/ for some basic on the merits of the AD versus ANG/AFRES questions. They also offer interview preparation and application review in which I plan on using based on people's experiences here. It'll also let you know which units are hiring and give you an idea of what is typically expected in each interview packet. I think it's been mentioned already but there are some great tips for studying for the AFOQT on here with recommended books etc. Once you get your AFOQT search on here for the TBAS flashcards and other study materials for that etc before taking the test. I DIDN"T do that and I'm having to retake both. Time is also on your side as well and it's a great time to be a candidate in this hiring environment!

Awesome progress!! Saw in your intro that you're a Medic as well, nice to see another one on here. Happy hunting!

+1 for what N730 mentioned, you have all the time in the world so I would be patient and keep applying. Come to think of it, My state A-10 unit doesn't allow visits/rushing.

From what I've read on here and as an applicant in the hunt I would not recommend enlisting at this time. Take this with a grain as I'm still applying as well but you seem to have a pretty strong package. If I we're you I would starting rushing any unit that you'd see yourself wanting to fly with. If your hometown unit is your first choice then I'd start attending UTA weekends with that unit and over time this effort with pay off. You can even expand your search to other fighter unit but that'll incur costs to be able to rush them CONSISTENTLY. I would not enlist if I we're in your shoes unless that 100% what you wanted to do in terms of checking the service box right now. As you stated, there are no guarantees and you have another 10 years of applying before age becomes an issue so I would just keep at it! Plus, the option of enlisting will always be there for you if you haven't made any progress in a few years but you'll have the added bonus of work experience and a possible promotion in that regard as well. Good luck!

Unless you're being sarcastic and I can't tell behind a screen (then disregard), but I think you might be looking at it the wrong way. This entire forum's existence is based on the premise of sharing information to help each other out. And as a character attribute helping people out when it has no benefit to yourself is a worthwhile goal. What you do or don't bring to the table is responsible for whether you're hired or not (this applies to me also).

+1 for keeping us updated. If you aren't doing so already, I hope you would consider sharing your experiences with at risk youth in your area as a bit of success story. In that you can rebound from self initiated mistakes, take ownership and not let it define you. Happy hunting from another fellow old guy!

My understanding is the same as yours in that an age waiver/Exception to Policy is NOT required for candidates that have not yet reached their 33rd birthday. I believe there's a link/thread on here somewhere with the actual policy. From lurking on here, it appears an ETP is possible for qualified candidates 33-35. Age is not something I would be "concerned" about if I we're you as I'm 35 and a wannabe also. You have a solid package and what seems like you've already identified the areas you can improve with your package. Happy Hunting!!!

@GeekUSA Check out https://bogidope.com/squadron-job-listing for a wealth of information regarding units that are hiring with POC information. I'd also recommend joining the "The Pilot Network on facebook" and search around on there. @FDNYOldGuy gave several of us old wannabes hope by getting an age waiver at 36 for a reserve C5 unit. Congrats on the impending PPL and keep pushing (I'm in same boat as you)

Anyone with the 434th ARW out of Grissom that cares to elaborate on this? Or any other reserve 135 driver that wants to share?

Congratulations!!!! As a fellow old guy thank you for updating us on your progress and being willing to be a resource for your "former" fellow wannabes!!

Welcome! I'm a wannabe also so I will only address a couple concerns you mentioned. If I were in your shoes my focus would be on getting full time employment.... preferably in something that interests you. Be a team player/work your ass off in whatever career you decide to venture into. Live at home or find a reliable roommate, avoid unnecessary debt/expenses to get your student loans paid off ASAP. Drive for uber, keep the serving position part time WITH full time employment, sell a kidney.. you get the idea on the debt/overall financial picture haha. From what I have read on here, If you have Solo'd that's generally a good sign that you're somewhat serious about flying. It's a good start until you can resume working toward your PPL. If you held down two jobs at one point that implies you have a work ethic, however you may want to start thinking about honest answers to account for a GPA less than 3.0. If you aren't in decent shape or have a good workout routine I would suggest building those habits now. You're 22 years old so time is on your side. Building some great work history outside of serving will improve the total person concept that's equally if not more important than your scores. Hope this helps and congrats on the degree and joys of adulting..student loans!!

Just to add to several of the points mentioned, I would also consider FD/PD employment AND rush AFRC/ANG units. I took the path you're currently considering and got on a FD after my enlistment (after two years of trying out). The pay/schedule afforded me an opportunity to get my PPL/Finish my Undergrad simultaneously without any loans. A PD brother is a Guard Blackhawk Driver and K9 Sergeant; He was away from the PD for about two years without any negative repercussions at work. PD/FD in GENERAL is part time friendly for Military types. So much yes to the better QOL on the FD side; I get cursed out by every Patrolman that comes through and witnesses us playing PS4 in the training room on a Saturday afternoon. XBOX elitists. I'm a "wannabe' as well at 34.5 and just decided to dust off the dream because I gave up prematurely. Lots of great advice in this thread, I can also answer any questions about FD albeit it's not of FDNY caliber!! In the best drawl I can muster sober, Get Er Dunnnn young fella.