[drownproof]

Nole,

Thanks a lot for sharing this. That’s exactly the kind of feedback I’ve been looking for and it helps more than you know.

Your approach makes a ton of sense. I’m definitely planning to reach out with more tailored emails once I’ve got my scores locked in. Right now, I’m studying for the AFOQT and planning to take both that and the TBAS within the next month or so. I’m active duty at Eglin and fully committed to this path. I’ll be 34 by the time most boards make final decisions, so I know I’ll be in the age waiver zone and need to bring something extra to the table.

That’s part of why I’ve started reaching out early. I’m not applying yet, but I wanted to introduce myself and hopefully show that I’m not just tossing my name in last minute. I’ve also been working on a side project building out a flight training site. It’s a way to show I’m invested in flying and in the community, even while still working on my own training.

Really appreciate you taking the time to respond and share what’s worked for you. Wishing you nothing but the best with your upcoming visits and interviews. Hope we both end up where we’re supposed to be.

Roberto

[drownproof]

Smack,

Thank you for the advice. What you said makes perfect sense, and I’ll adjust my strategy accordingly.

To answer your questions:

1. I’m currently active duty stationed at Eglin AFB, working as a 4A0X1 (Health Services Manager). I’ve been in for 5 years.

2. I haven’t scheduled the AFOQT or TBAS yet, but I’ve contacted my base education center to check availability. There are open slots, and my goal is to take both within the next 30 to 45 days.

3. I have two contacts in the flying world. One is a C-146 Evaluator Pilot and a close friend stationed nearby at Duke Field. He’s provided me a letter of recommendation. The second is an F-35 pilot at Eglin whom I met through him, and I’ve stayed in touch with both. They’re both active duty.

4. So far, I’ve emailed four units using a personal email since I’m currently on paternity leave. I explained that I’m not quite ready to apply, but I wanted to introduce myself early and not just be a name in an inbox. Do you recommend using my government email instead? I just created the personal one I used, and I’m concerned it may hit spam filters.

I fully understand that many units won’t engage until a full packet is ready, but with my age, I’m trying to stay ahead of the curve. I’ll be 34 by the time most boards make hiring decisions, so I know I’ll need a waiver. That urgency is what drives me to lean in and be as prepared as possible. I’m all in on this path and committed to doing whatever it takes to earn a shot, not just check boxes.

I really appreciate your honesty and time. If you’re open to it, I’d be grateful for any insight on how to genuinely communicate value to a unit without coming off as over-eager. Thanks again for the response. It means a lot.

Roberto