I have been lucky to receive a direct appointment to USAFA for the class of 2024 and an offer to the Naval Academy Prep School. The extra year at NAPS is not a factor in my decision. I would love to go to either academy, so I am basing my decision on what I will do in the Navy or Air Force after graduation. My preferred job would be a fighter pilot, but I believe that I would be happy with a non-flying assignment such as a developmental engineer in the Air Force or as an NFO in the Navy. I plan to major in astronautical/aeronautical engineering, and I would love to earn the rare opportunity to attend grad school directly out of the academy. Finally, one of my long term goals is to become a test pilot (I know that I have countless hurdles to worry about before such goals).
Right now, I see the Air Force as the “safer” option in terms of alternate career choices if I do not get a pilot slot, and I have the notion that there is a better chance to get a fighter slot in the Air Force due to the USAF’s 1,607 fighters vs. the Navy’s 473 fighters. However, in my heart, I have a deep desire to serve in the fleet and live on a ship. Thank you for your time.
- I was wondering if there are any opportunities to become an engineer (other than as a Civil Engineer) directly out of USNA.
- Also, I hear that the Air Force has maybe 0 to ~4 slots per UPT class depending on the needs of the Air Force. How does the Navy compare in terms of fighter slots per class?
- Lastly, what are some other factors I should consider when making my decision?
Right now, I see the Air Force as the “safer” option in terms of alternate career choices if I do not get a pilot slot, and I have the notion that there is a better chance to get a fighter slot in the Air Force due to the USAF’s 1,607 fighters vs. the Navy’s 473 fighters. However, in my heart, I have a deep desire to serve in the fleet and live on a ship. Thank you for your time.