Test Pilots

To answer the AWACs question, when I was getting my Masters at Elmendorf I met many people who were involved with AWACs. (There is an AWACS squadron assigned there) They absolutely loved what they were doing, and to prove it, they were deployed alot (@150+ days a yr). Very cool job, but you will be gone alot.
 
Thanks for clarifying, Christcorp.

I think I'm in the right position. I'm definitely going to an Academy for the education first. My career will follow. and yes, I'm just talking pilot in general. My aim is fighters, but I will settle for anything with wings.

Ok, well, I'm still on the fence here. I never thought I'd have to make this decision. :confused:
 
If you'd like more info or questions answered by current cadets/middies, I would suggest pm'ing them too. I am a cadet in the class of 2010, so I will have my AFSC (job) selection done this coming semester while doing my GMAT/MCAT and grad school/med school applications (with my top choice out of the academy being the ENJJPT pilot program).
 
Hey guys thanks for all the responses...I just wanted to clear up somethings that people are saying.

I know the reason that I want to go to the AFA, and it's not just to be a pilot. I will be happy serving on the ground if needed. What I was asking was for the requirements for becoming a test pilot. There are several majors that I find very interesting, some engineering, some not. I just want to make sure that I am not limiting my options for the future by getting a degree in something other than engineering...if I am lucky enough to get an appointment, graduate, get a slot, become a pilot, be able to become a test pilot.

Thanks I really appreciate all the responses.
 
Let me give you 1 Bit of advice. This is VERY EASY coming from someone who can see MORE YEARS looking BACKWARDS than FORWARDS.

Ready????? Here Goes!!!!

Forget what job, career, etc.. you think is going to make you the most successful. Forget which one you think will lead to the most money. Forget which career you think opens up the most possibilities. Forget ALL CAREERS THAT HAVE ANY LOGICAL REASON FOR DOING!!!!

Take all the classes you HAVE TO TAKE according to the academy. Major in whatever career you WANT TO WORK IN. Forget the prestige; forget the pay; forget the future. Do whatever will make you happy. If you want to eventually be an archeologist; major in it. If you like people and how they operate; then major in a Social Science major. If you want to be an engineer; then study that. If you want to work in a museum, then study art history. The point is; major in what you want to do for the rest of your life. Whether it's for 20 years in the Air Force or after your 5 year commitment. Life is too darn short. ENJOY WHAT YOU DO. Then you'll never miss the money you COULD HAVE HAD. Make it your goal in life to "Want what you have" instead of "Having what you Want". One day you're going to wake up and be dead. Make the most out of your life. Do what makes you happy. Not what is lucrative or what others expect or want of you. later... mike....
 
Chirstcorp hit the nail on the head, even though I hopefully have more ahead of me, you never know what will happen tomorrow. What he said is great advice that everyone should follow, maybe then we wouldnt have corrupt politicians... >.<
 
AFAPlease - Good for you for having a dream. I hope you get there.
Do all you can to either make your dream come true. Too many people give up on dreams because those around them tell them that it's too difficult, the odds are against them etc.

Hopefully, if the AFA does it's job - they will advise you when it's time to pick your major - that way if you have a dream you will be in the best position possible to make it happen.

True - lots of kids want to be test pilots. Do all make it? Of course not. I will bet you though that those who do don't get there by accident. They formulate a plan and stick to it. I bet most test pilots today had a dream, just like yours.
Go get it. Forget the naysayers. Deal with your second choice if/when your first choice is no longer attainable. Persevere. Good Luck.
 
my academic advisor was a test pilot engineer guy... he didnt fly the planes, but he was the second man in the planes. he had a ton of amazing stories and pictures to show us. and his wife made the best brownies and cookies :) amazing guy
 
Thanks a lot Just_A_Mom! The reason for this question was for exactly the reason you said-to formulate a plan. I am just trying to not limit my choices later.
 
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