CHAOS
Ace
Exam Ready
ANG Pilot
Forum Replies Created
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Husky,
Great post and points! For those worried about the Guard transitioning from aging 4th Gen assets… Realize that most of the time, when a unit goes through an airframe change, they quite often lose a decent amount of aircrew. With a new jet, the flyers are more than likely required to go through a lengthy transition course and spinup training. Some of the folks won’t be particularly interested in that commitment depending on a plethora of factors (Traditional Guardsmen/Airline Pilot?, Family factors?, Age/Remaining Service commitment, etc.)
If you are an active flyer in the unit, they will often work with you on alternative options if you don’t want to transition. However, if you are applying for UPT, you should assume that leadership expects you to transition with the unit if a follow-on aircraft has already been announced.
-CHAOS
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Eric,
Wanted to reinvigorate this thread. We just completed a rushing the squadron webinar this evening, and I think all interested parties in this thread would benefit greatly from giving it a watch.
The bottom line is that I think creative ways to network or build a connection are fair game. You obviously have to weigh that by reading the room and making sure it doesn’t seem like you are annoying them or being overbearing. That said, outside-the-box thinking like this may get you an in at a squadron.
Good luck!
-CHAOS
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All,
To clear up some confusion regarding the last couple of comments… The Air Force doesn’t recognize Army Helo Training as an equivalent to UPT. While I’m sure most of you bring an awesome skillset to the fight, unfortunately, the Air Force (including ANG/ Reserve) does not consider you “rated” by their definition. Hence why you would need to take the AFOQT/TBAS as each is pre-req. to attend UPT.
Maybe not the best news, but I hope this helps.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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Hey Colton, awesome to see you’re grinding away at the AFOQT. 90’s is definitely what you should be if striving for fighter units. While the pilot score is traditionally the most important, I’ve heard that some squadrons also heavily weigh all of the categories when selecting interviewees. Make sure you put your best foot forward and study, study, study!
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Ryan,
Great thread! I think it’s important not to forget to be yourself when you start to rush units. While it’s natural to ask questions about mission, aircraft, etc. Don’t downplay the power of small talk. A simple convo about the local pro sports team, hobbies, family, etc., can go a long way in humanizing you and making you likable, which is ultimately what you are trying to do while visiting.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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Nice! Always a good feeling to improve your scores. Good luck going forward.
-CHAOS
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No problem, happy to help!
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Thomas,
While I’m far from an expert on the medical side of the house… Generally, there’s a waiver for everything. I would definitely not let this deter you from your goals. In fact, I would consider this as a strength of your ability to persevere! I’d recommend looking to the Medical pros who contribute here at BogiDope for more specific guidance. The bottom line is that I’d say press forward, and I’d be shocked that if a unit wants to hire you, they can’t obtain a waiver for you to start this adventure.
Good luck, and thanks for sharing your story!
-CHAOS
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IHC_Nole,
This may not specifically be what you’re looking for, but you may be interested in this:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fite-history/id1718391746
Fite History is a podcast that documents the life of famous fighter pilots, narrated by two Barnestormin Eagle Drivers with the Massachusetts ANG.
-CHAOS
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The TBAS is and always has been a little bit more hard to prepare for. The Air Force does this purposefully as they try to keep the test somewhat secret. That said, nowadays, there are definitely good tools to prepare for the test, such as the video posted above. Here’s an additional link to help prepare for the directional SA (UAV) portion: https://www.proprofsflashcards.com/story.php?title=_36014
Remember you can always take this test twice with a minimum of 90 days between takes.
Hope this helps!
-CHAOS
proprofsflashcards.com
State the Correct Answer for Directions Flashcards Flashcards by ProProfs
Study State the Correct Answer for Directions Flashcards Flashcards at ProProfs - For all those pilot wannabes to practice the TBAS UAV section. Be prepared for the TBAS UAV section and master this topic with ease and fun by attempting Flashcards … Continue reading
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WAZ,
That form can be a bit confusing. The section that requires a witness will only be completed AFTER you have been selected. For application purposes, don’t worry about filling out that section. If you ever have a big question, asking around here is a great place to start! From there, you can always verify with the hiring POC that you are completing everything correctly.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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Jaybird,
Congrats on the interview; exciting times! How much time do you have before the interview? Are you located in close proximity to the unit? If so, it wouldn’t hurt to see if they allow visits beforehand. Any face time you can get before the interview may be invaluable. Also, I don’t know if you’ve perused the website, but the E-Course for interview prep is a phenomenal tool. Quick and easy words of wisdom are to be yourself, be confident, and try to have some fun.
Always go with Dress Blues unless specifically told otherwise. The hiring POC is most likely referring to any changes to your already submitted Application. Think new test scores, new Letters of Rec., updated flying hours, etc. If you don’t have any major changes, I wouldn’t worry about it.
Hope that answers some of your questions. Good luck!
-CHAOS
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Eric,
You wouldn’t be the first Guard/ Reserve Flyer to take the scenic route through college. My best advice is to rush, rush, and then rush some more. You can absolutely do this before you’re qualified. Trying to offset your weaknesses by padding your resume on paper pales in comparison to getting face time with the pilots, telling them your story, and building a relationship. Your best bet is to find a unit or two you can build a rapport with and convince them you’re worth a shot when the time comes.
Lastly, turn in any and all Apps. The worst they can do is tell you no.
Hope this helps!
-CHAOS
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Welcome Beav!
Thanks for sharing your story on age waivers. Age is definitely a hot topic in the community, and your first-hand experience will bring a ton to the fight as a BD coach!
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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John,
Thanks for your service and welcome to the community! As tedious as the tests may be, do your best to really knock those out of the park. Being competitive for a Guard/Reserve fighter slot in today’s environment usually comes with having scores in the 90s.
Good luck going forward!
-CHAOS
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Rachel,
Thanks for sharing your story! I’ve worked with a few Army Helo Drivers looking to transition to fixed wing in the Guard/ Reserves. I recommend starting to rush squadrons ASAP. Using the time you have available while still under contract with the Army to build a relationship with some guard units will be crucial when the time comes for applying to UPT boards.
I hope this helps!
Cheers.
-CHAOS
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Chainsaw,
Great thread! It’s super beneficial to make connections during rush events. While you all are competing for the same job, collaboration is still the key to success. I still talk to some of the bros I met at rush events back when I was on the circuit. Learn from each other, share ideas, costs, etc! Say hi to the bros in Nola for me.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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Awesome advice Gunboss! A plug to all: Don’t leave any stone unturned when studying for these tests. There is a plethora of study tools and you don’t want a low score to hold you back from your dream job.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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Elodie,
Thanks for sharing your story! That’s quite the resume. If you haven’t already, I recommend starting to study for the AFOQT/ TBAS ASAP. Getting 90s on those tests is hugely beneficial to your chances of landing a UPT slot. Looking forward to tracking your progress!
Cheers.
-CHAOS
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Chainsaw,
Thanks for sharing your story! Getting a UPT slot is definitely a process. It’s rare to strike gold on your first swing at the bat. You’re headed in the right direction by improving your application and taking feedback to heart. Unit’s are often impressed by applicants returning a second time with an improved package and showing their ability to improve and take a debrief.
Keep grinding; hopefully, your hard work will pay off soon enough!
Cheers.
-CHAOS
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Sweet, happy to help!
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Goonie,
Doubling down on cgiff’s reply. You are absolutely not tied to the Guard. In fact, most units would encourage you to go to UPT, no matter the avenue you choose. I personally went from enlisted AF Reserve to an ANG Pilot slot. It happens all the time.
Good luck, and be sure to look through all of the website’s material if you have any questions.
Cheers!
-CHAOS
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No worries! Well hopefully that’ll be you flying over the beach soon enough.