Hey everyone,
I'm just looking for some advice. I'm a 20-year-old in college who wants to get connected to the Air National Guard to hopefully join a unit after college. I have my private pilot's license and over 150 hours of total flight time. How can I take action right now to stand out for potential guard units?
Thanks!
Sam--sounds like you're on a good path right now! Demonstrating flight ability/potential through a PPL (and beyond) is one of the best things you can do to be competitive. Beyond completing your 4-year degree, here are some additional things I'd recommend... 1) Start preparing for the AFOQT and TBAS. 2) Continue to hone your resume and leadership skills (units will be looking for your proven track record to lead and stick out from a crowd. 3) Start narrowing down the list of aircraft types/missions you'd be interested in flying and then derive a list of units you'd be interested in visiting ("rushing") to see if they are a good fit for you. Your connection to that unit's area is a strong consideration, but it's not the only measurement. Consider calling units for a one-off site visit...or figure out when their next Open House will be for potential candidates. Can't overstress the importance of getting some in-person face time with a unit...most are often flooded with dozens of applications for each UPT slot each board. The personal contact/connection you have to the unit is the major difference-maker. ---Finally, you may have seen some posts about our upcoming BD Boot Camp..8-week program designed to accelerate your record/skills toward an "interview-ready" application package, might be a good match for you! Hope this helps...please DM me if you have any additional questions! --Sharky
@samuelterrell couldn't agree more with Sharky. All those things will get you moving in the right direction. But don't forget to make sure you are developing as a person as well. College is great time to get involved in leadership/aviation/professional ventures that make you not only a dedicated candidate, but a well-rounded candidate.