[A_Foster]

First off, congrats on the slot! That’s huge!

I was also recently selected by reserves for an unsponsored UFT pilot slot (through the board for AFROTC cadets). I am not sure who is saying “heavies only” but my guess is they may be saying this because the number of reserve fighter squadrons is super limited and it can be hard to get hired by the limited ones that are there. I have friends in the AFROTC program who are dead set on flying fighters and are wanting to prove themselves at pilot training and don’t/didn’t want to go through the interview process that’s needed for reserves. Speaking from limited knowledge it appears their thinking behind this is they also don’t want to risk NOT getting a fighter by going the reserve route because getting sponsored by a unit is not only competitive but requires some luck/timing. i.e. Are the limited number of reserve fighter squadrons even hiring? Do you fit the “well rounded” person they are looking for?

I suggest researching which reserve units are out there and if there are any hiring (hint: moody just closed their board and Fort Worth just opened theirs)

For me, going reserves is more than just the fighter slot. It is also the control that comes with it compared to going active, etc. So anyone else reading this, keep in mind that this line of thinking is purely “what path will give me the best chance at a fighter?”, without thinking about other factors. The answer really depends, but I hope my info gives some situational awareness to the factors you could be thinking about.

Feel free to DM and again, congrats on the slot!

[A_Foster]

Hey everyone,

My name is Alex, and I’m 22 years old. Currently, I’m a senior in AFROTC, expecting to commission around October 2024. Recently, I found out that I’ve been selected for an unsponsored pilot slot in the Air Force Reserves (congrats to anyone else who got selected and is reading this!). I don’t have a specific airframe preference; my goal is to join the fighter community and work with like-minded individuals.

I’m an Aviation Management major and have been involved in AFROTC for most of my college career. I joined “late-ish” and studied abroad for a semester last year in Norway. In terms of flight experience, I have a Commercial Pilot’s License/Instrument Rating and am close to finishing my commercial multi-engine (with around 250 total hours).

Always looking to push my limits, I enjoy lifting and training for triathlons. In my free time, my hobbies depend on where I am and who I’m with, as I find enjoyment in almost anything. Mostly being outdoors activities, they range from working on dirt bikes, surfing, and reading to camping, enjoying a beer with friends, and ice fishing. Of course, flying as well! During my sophomore-junior year, some friends and I started a flying club/LLC, apparently with the ultimate goal of burning a hole in my wallet, ha. Jokes aside, we gained a lot of experience and happily introduced many people to the world of aviation 🙂

I’m eager to help others who are pursuing their military flying goals while I do the same. I’d be more than happy to share any experience or advice I can. I look forward to contributing to the community SLAP has started!

[A_Foster]

Thank you! Yeah! I believe there were 7 selected last year and 9 this year.

As you mentioned, there aren’t many fighter options in AFRC, but all have great locations. Since I’ve lived in all climates and have a hobby for each one, I’m open to making any place my home. Until I find that “home”, I plan on applying to every unit hiring. I recently applied to Moody to fly the A-10. I’m excited to see if they get back!

Unfortunately, I have heard the units in Alaska and Utah do not hire UPT candidates/ haven’t up to this point. If you or anyone else has heard different please let me know!

[A_Foster]

Thank you for the insightful information!