ANG

[mccube5]

Just wondering if anyone could provide me with some insight. I was wondering what kind of position might be a good one to look into as an entry level job with the intention of working your way up to a possible flight slot. It seems like the best way to work your way up is to get a foot in the door and try and show some people you are capable of moving up. Any input is appreciated.

[BCTAv8r]

Don't enlist with the sole intention to get a UPT slot afterwards. Most units will see right through that. Are you interested in any specific unit? Some units will require you to be from within but from what I've seen, most don't.

And as for what type of job it will also depend on what unit we're talking about.

[mccube5]

Well i'm from buffalo, so the Niagara Falls unit would be my first choice. Not sure exactly what their status is though, rumors are always flying around that they are gonna shut that base down.

Thanks for the heads up on joining expecting a flight slot. I've thought about that, but thats the best way i can think to make some inside connections and get a recommendation.

[frog_flyer]

Knock off (and own!) the AFOQT and TBAS, get the ppl, finish the degree.


You are right though: being enlisted in the unit can be a great benefit (if you're not a prick). Some units hire only from within, while others accept packets from off-the-street guys.

I've pretty much ruled out enlisting because it doesn't fit with my long term goals.

Best of luck

[BCTAv8r]

The unit that I'll be attempting to join for example gives no preference to people from within. I know of around 9 guys from within that have been there numerous years and want to go to UPT yet the last 5 people selected were all non-prior. In fact, one of the guys that got invited to the interview had never even visited the unit. And we're talking about the 125thfw (F-15c) which isn't easy to get into.

I was planning on taking the ASVAB soon and doing basic+tech starting this summer but decided to just devote my time to getting competitive numbers. Numbers, while they won't get you the job per say, will get you an interview. And for now that's all I'm focused on right now.

[Kato]

If you are refering to the Air Refueling Wing, a boom operator would be a GREAT job to enlist into. Any enlisted aircrew position will give you first hand experience and exposure to what your future will be like as a pilot in that unit. You can also look into aerial port, maintenance, life support, or intel. Do what interests you and what time affords, but try to stay close to operations for that will give you the best experience and exposure to what the lifestyle is all about.

There is a C-130 unit (reserves) out of niagra falls as well. Good unit and good people.

Just do your research and figure things out before joining.

[scramjet]

My cousin just recently joined the ANG base at Niagara as enlisted on the ground. I'm trying to convince her to try to fly after she is done with her degree! No luck so far haha.

[mhcasey]

Originally Posted by BCTAv8r

The unit that I'll be attempting to join for example gives no preference to people from within. I know of around 9 guys from within that have been there numerous years and want to go to UPT yet the last 5 people selected were all non-prior. In fact, one of the guys that got invited to the interview had never even visited the unit. And we're talking about the 125thfw (F-15c) which isn't easy to get into.

That's the best news I've ever heard! I'm going to visit the 125th around Easter (hopefully). My buddy's brother flies with them and it sounds like an awesome unit.

Any other ANG hopefulls other than Frog?

[BCTAv8r]

Originally Posted by mhcasey

Any other ANG hopefulls other than Frog?

Yep, I am. I'm also eying the Reserves. And if neither work out, OTS. And if none of that works out I'm trying OCS.

[Ortini159]

Count me in. At this point its military or nothing! Just make sure you get into a good unit cause you know who will come calling about a year after I get my eyes all nice and working!