Think of all the hard work you’ve already put in throughout your journey to land your dream interview. Regardless of whether you are applying to UPT or a rated board, the college exams, AFOQT, flight time, upgrades, deployments, resumes, cover letters, networking, etc., add up to a lot of time, effort, and money. This interview is the final hurdle standing between you and a life-altering multi-million-dollar career change, family stability, and/or that dream aircraft or location. No pressure, right?
With so much to gain, is this really the time to wing it? Of course not, yet many still try – and fail. This will likely be the only hiring board that particular squadron has this year. You can’t afford to squander your chances with a lack of preparation.
Let our expert staff help you make the most of your limited time in front of the hiring board. With years of experience on both sides of the UPT and rated interview tables in fighters, heavies, and airlines, we will set you up with a BogiDope Coach who best understands your personal goals. Once assigned, your coach will guide you through the entire process, ensure all your questions are answered, and ultimately send you off to the interview more confident and prepared than ever before.
How the 1-on-1 Interview Prep Works:
- Interview Prep eCourse (sold separately) – This course provides the foundation of all of the interview “best practices.” It is packed with 30 lessons that will guide you through straight-to-the-point actionable advice on all the do’s, don’ts, and how-tos for knocking the interview out of the park. This, along with the BogiDope Interview Question Bank (225 of the most commonly asked questions), will set your foundation for getting the most out of your 1-on-1 consultations.
- Schedule the Coach/Date/Time of Your Choosing
- 1-on-1 Mock Interview (60 mins) – This is the practice game before the Super Bowl. We’ll customize the questions we ask to the squadron you’re interviewing with and then critique each answer. By the time you’re finished, you’ll feel significantly more confident and prepared for the real thing.
The BogiDope Interview Prep eCourse (sold separately) Covers:
- What to Expect at the Interview
- How to Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Nonverbal Communication
- What to Wear & Bring With You
- How to Structure Your Answers
- Video and Phone Interview Specifics
- Sample Answers to the Most Common Questions
- How to Rush a Squadron
- How to Handle Waivers and Skeletons in Your Closet
- Rated Pilot Specifics
- 200 of the Most Common UPT and Rated Interview Questions
End of Session Survey Response –
CHAOS completely changed how I thought about the online interview, how I prepared, and what I said.
End of Session Survey Response –
CAGE was a phenomenal coach, his experience directly led to credible feedback that will hopefully help in upcoming interviews. This resource is worth its weight in gold.
End of Session Survey Response –
Sharky was great! Very helpful and provided great feedback. Knew what hiring boards were looking for.
End of Session Survey Response –
DJ was incredibly helpful during my interview process! My interview skills really improved and he helped me understand the questions at a deeper level and how to find an answer that fits the question better. I felt way more prepared going into the interview after getting some high quality reps in and the feedback he gave was really valuable and helped me articulate my answers much more effectively. Overall, DJ’s coaching sessions were awesome and after my interview I got great feedback! I got the job!
The interview coaching sessions are a great resource for UPT hiring boards and I will highly recommend for anyone who considers applying in the future.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chaos provided great instruction on how to fix the way I was formatting my answers.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris “Sharky” Mazzei was awesome to work with. My biggest struggle was how to approach some questions, and he helped me a ton. I really appreciated his feedback and felt that it was well worth the cost.
End of Session Survey Response –
CHAOS was great, willing to help, and clearly had an interest in my upcoming interview and making sure I was prepared. I am very grateful for his guidance and advice.
End of Session Survey Response –
SIC’s ability to bring out passion and the best in candidates is truly an art. I’ve enjoyed listening to his mindset on certain interview questions. We schemed ways for me to tailor my life experiences into solid interview questions. He really took the time to listen to my story and help guide me to solid interview responses.
End of Session Survey Response –
CHAOS truly cares about your responses and provides real, honest feedback on how to improve responses. We schemed responses and practiced a handful of different ones. He threw some questions at me that I wasn’t prepared for, which helped me in the long run. I didn’t feel unprepared for the job at all, and am very glad I paid for the Interview Prep sessions. These are essential for fighter pilot interview prep!
End of Session Survey Response –
CAGE was awesome, really smart guy, articulate, and helped me rephrase a few answers to flow more smoothly and communicate more clearly what i wanted to. Helped me smooth out some rough edges on some of my answers. Helped a ton, huge confidence boost going into my next interview. i was unsure about spending the money for the consultation but it ended up being worth every penny. I consider myself to be a decent interviewer but this helped so much more than i thought it would.
End of Session Survey Response –
SIC was super helpful! Had a good format for the hour/went over all of the big questions, was really generous with his time, and was supportive and encouraging even when I know some of my answers sucked.
SIC helped break down the questions in a way that was really helpful in comparison to just going through the online prep. Going through the online prep felt pretty overwhelming at times, and he had clear methods that simplified a lot of what the online prep suggested.
I really appreciated how encouraging SIC was throughout the whole hour! I was so stressed about my interview, knew a lot of my answers didn’t sound good, and was nervous about meeting with a bogidope rep and having my lack of preparation highlighted. He was so positive, constructive, and concise in what the structure and critical components to include in your responses are.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris was amazing. We did 2 sessions, packet and interview prep. He said my packet was solid and didn’t have too much feedback, and I agree it’s overall solid. Quickly we pivoted to interview prep. The second session was interview prep, and honestly, 90% of his questions were almost exactly what I encountered in the interview. His feedback was crucial to my experience, and I felt completely prepared for the interview. As the questions rolled on, I could see exactly how Chris wanted me to answer them, and my answers felt natural because I had just practiced the night before.
Scheduling was super easy, Chris was available a couple days after I signed up and I appreciated being able to see his availability.
I didn’t find the course too helpful, but I’ve interviewed before. From an outside perspective it definitely has some good info, and the “ways” of answering questions was helpful.
At first I thought it was the expensive, but after my experience with Chris I absolutely see the value. I didn’t know what to expect going into it, and I’m very glad I did.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris “Sharky” Mazzei was unbelievably helpful. He gave awesome insight in small details that I looked over with my initial preparation for my interview, and I was left feeling 1000% more confident in how to prepare better going forward. Please do yourself the favor of giving a coaching session a try, you will not regret it!
Chris recognized my lack of readiness with grace and was extremely generous with going past the time allotted time to make sure I was provided with well intended and useful critique on my questions and how I answered the mock interview questions.
End of Session Survey Response –
It was super helpful. DJ’s feedback was excellent and helped me get much more dialed in for the interview and I got the job in the end, so couldn’t have been better!
End of Session Survey Review –
Chris was great and was able to give me terrific feedback and help tremendously on how to think through and formulate responses. Made me very confident
End of Session Survey Response –
I had two meetings with Chris and both meetings were extremely helpful and covered every major question I was asked in my interview. I liked how Chris simplified everything and was a great communicator. Each answer I had for his mock interview questions he refined and helped me relate it to being an officer/pilot in the Air Force.
In both of my sessions, he went over the allotted time and we even went over some things that were not a part of the interview. Specifically, we went over the “pilot meet and greet” and I felt super well prepared for it I got feedback from one of the guys in the Squadron and he said all the officers had nothing but great things to say.
KC-135 Pilot Selectee –
John is a excellent coach! His questions were spot on and his suggestions helped me frame my answers in a more compelling way which yielded to a much better result. I highly recommend anyone pursuing a pilot slot to use Bogidope and their coaching sessions.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chaos is awesome and went above and beyond to help me prepare for my interview. He was very clear of what I did right, what I did wrong and how to improve my answers and performance. Hands down one of the best coaches here!
End of Session Survey Response –
The interview prep was definitely expensive, especially since most people who are trying to become pilots have huge loans in order to even afford flight training. It would be nice if it was more affordable, or it would even be nice if you didn’t have to pay to be a BogiDope member and have access to content. Aside from these recommendations, I want to say that CHAOS did an awesome job and was very helpful! 1 on 1 interview prep is definitely something I will recommend and I will recommend it with him.
End of Session Survey Response –
DJ absolutely nailed the structure and helped me tighten up my responses for my UCT interview. This coaching helped me find the confidence I needed to ace the interview and get selected!
End of Session Survey Response –
Sharky’s generously went overtime so I definitely got the value I was looking for from what I paid. It was a great experience.
End of Session Survey Response –
CHAOS went above and beyond to prepare me for my interview by working with me for almost two hours! He was very helpful and really took the time to get to know me so he could give me the best possible chance of getting a guard UPT slot.
End of Session Survey Response –
Husky was extremely knowledgeable and he truly wanted to make sure that by the end of the session I knew exactly how to articulate how my past experiences will allow me to be an asset to the squadron. I’m definitely taking a new approach to answering some of my questions but I got great feedback on other questions so it’s good to know I was on the right path with those.
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris provided fantastic insight and helped me prepare for the interview more than I could have asked for. While it was expensive, I do feel as though it was great value and worth every penny. I’m highly satisfied with the interview prep. You can tell Chris truly cares about helping potential candidates reach their goals.
Travis Yang –
The mentorship I got from CHAOS was invaluable. To get guidance from an actual fighter pilot boosted my confidence so much. I have no doubt that the support I was given was an absolute game changer – worth every cent!
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris went above and beyond to teach me how to do well in upcoming UPT boards. He was friendly, approachable, and never rushed me at any point. But he also didn’t mince words, and I’m glad he didn’t. I’m more than certain that all of the BogiDope coaches are upstanding gentlemen who know what they’re doing and are passionate about helping the next generation of aviators, but Chris is the cream of the crop. Do not let him go! Thank you again, Chris!
End of Session Survey Response –
CHAOS was excellent, super helpful, with direct, actionable items that helped me target specific improvements between our sessions.
Went through the “Interview Prep” program for an Active Duty slot. The information shared, structure of the sessions, and overall benefit when it came to game time was invaluable. If anything to help with peace of mind hearing directly from folks who are already in flying positions, to help guide you or tie any loose ends.
Do your homework as you prep, hit it hard, and know you’re in good hands.
I used items from the coaching in every question I was asked in the interview. Invaluable benefit. 1,000% recommend!
End of Session Survey Response –
Chris Mazzei 1 on 1 coaching is a total lifesaver, he made feel confident and prepared for my interview. He left no stone unturned and is extremely knowledgeable about the interview process. If your going heavies, give him a call. Needless to say, I got my dream job. Thanks Bogidope.
End of Session Survey Response –
HUSKY was awesome! Super helpful, gave a ton of insightful comments on my resume / cover letter, and was very open about any questions I had on my application. Helped to highlight different parts of my resume that, while present in my previous draft, needed a bit more highlighting.
Being someone who is constrained on money (student loans, rent, car payments, flight school, and a job that doesn’t pay great) I think a cheaper course would have been easier. This was sort of something that Husky and I discussed that I didn’t know about. A lot of the kids who can afford these courses may use their family’s past wealth to pay for it. Given that I don’t have that luxury, it becomes a bit harder. Therefore, a cheaper course would have been financially easier for me.
Please note, this is not at all a reflection on the quality of the session with HUSKY. HUSKY was awesome, super prepared (even sent me stuff outside of the mentoring session), gave insightful comments, critiques, and provided more realism about the squadrons that I would not have otherwise known.
Overall very happy. Could be cheaper.
End of Session Survey Response –
Thank you so much for creating the BogiDope website and all the resources you all provide. Chris’ ability to help me form my responses into more complete ideas that better accomplished the point of each question was invaluable.
End of Session Survey Response –
Humpty was great to work with, very professional and knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to help. It’s clear that he personally cares about helping customers and I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for help with interviews or anything else.
C-17 UPT Selectee –
Good morning sir, wanted to let you know I was selected for the ANG C-17 UPT pilot board! I really appreciate you taking the time help me with interview prep. It was a huge help.
William Haug –
Outstanding interview prep! The online course and mock interview sessions are an absolute necessity for anyone trying to grab the ever-elusive UPT slot.
Peter Kaszynski –
Bogidope is such a fantastic resource. I’ve used it for a few years now as the end of my Active Duty time has come closer (job board and interactive map specifically) to get an idea of Guard/Reserve squadron locations and how those would line up with an airline gig. I used the Interview Prep course and it helped immensely with understanding the Guard hiring process and with building confidence for what to expect on the day of the interview/rushing the unit. Shout out to DJ, who was a great one on one coach, answered all of my questions, and made sure I was ready to go on the day of the interview. Fantastic resource and if you’re looking to make the jump from Active duty to Guard/Reserve or join the unit from the beginning, BogieDope is well worth the investment.
KC-46 UPT Selectee –
I got the KC-46 guard spot! DJ thank you for all your help… the interview went very well due largely to your help with all the prep.
End of Session Survey Response –
This opportunity was super useful! It has helped me refine my answers the way they need to be.
End of Session Survey Response –
BogiDope helped prepare my resume, cover letter, and overall packet in order for me to be as competitive as possible. I felt as if I was given all of the tools necessary to be successful on this journey to gaining a UPT slot. Without BogiDope, I’m not sure if I would have been given the opportunity to interview with my hometown squadron.
End of Session Survey Response –
Mr. Haldopoulos “Snip” is top tier! Extremely knowledgable, has incredible attention to detail, and has so much Air Force / ANG experience that you can’t go wrong with his expertise. Highly recommend!
Eileen Geyer –
I purchased the 1 Hour Interview Prep Add-On and chose to work with D.J. as I was prepping for a C-130 interview. I found this to be incredibly helpful. D.J. was awesome to work with. He gave me his undivided attention and even worked with my tight deadline. As a C-130 pilot himself, D.J. was able to provide insight to the perspective the hiring board would have and what they were trying to determine with each question. D.J.’s coaching style was the perfect balance of honest/critical and encouraging. After 2 sessions with him, I felt confident and prepared for my interview and was hired by a C-130 unit! This session was not only worth every penny, but an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I cannot recommend these sessions enough and, more specifically, D.J. as a coach. I would give this service 10 stars if I could. THANK YOU BOGIDOPE!
Chris C –
Don’t let the price scare you. As a poor recent college grad spending all his money on flying, it was worth it. Don’t gamble a life changing opportunity on $300 something bucks. I think the course was useful, but I probably got 75% of my skills learned from the live sessions with DJ. Not only did the package help you build better answers to some of the guaranteed questions, but it also helped you build confidence in your answers as you have someone who’s been on the other side of the table critiques you. Do what he says because he’s showing you the path to success. It’s just in your hands to apply it to the best of your ability.
Some additional tips I’d include that the course didn’t would be, get some nice plastic report folders with your application packet in there on nice resume paper. Hand those out when you get to the board and include and updates if you have them. I carried them all in a leather portfolio so that it wasn’t a mess.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I finally got hired to fly F-16s at my home unit after working with both SIC and SMAX. I had been getting interviews previously but I feel BogiDope was the extra push I needed to actually land the job and I appreciate all the support your company has given me along the way.
KC-135 UPT Selectee –
Selected to fly KC-135’s after working with D.J. for two sessions. He was very personable and delivered on-target, specific feedback that helped me along through the interview process. Highly recommend this consultation.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I did interview prep with SIC back in January and it helped tremendously. Although I didn’t get picked up after that interview, SIC was always cheering me on along the way. This past weekend I was picked up to fly F-16s for 2 different squadrons and I know I couldn’t have done it without the help of Bogidope, but more importantly without SIC. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to be part of the fighter community and even more excited to see what the future holds as I start the process to become a viper driver in the ANG. Thank you again!
F-35 UPT Selectee –
Just want to give a huge thanks to your team. I am an AD medic (IDMT) in an AD F-35 squadron and have been pursing a UPT slot for fighters for a little over a year now. I competed the BogiDope interview prep in July after “hooking” my first interview with another squadron earlier this year. Thanks to your course, and lots of preparation, I shacked my second interview and got the job! So much so that the Sq/CC that hired me said I was the top interviewee in their pool of over 15. This course was worth every penny and really highlighted what I was missing. I won the lottery and was hired by a current Viper, soon-to-be F-35 squadron in my home state. Thanks again!
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I have been at the process of applying for units for the past 4.5 years. It was demanding, demoralizing, and very frustrating to be told “thanks but no thanks” 60+ times. SIC worked with my resume, cover letter, and prepped me for the interview process. I cannot say enough good things about him. He absolutely destroyed my cover letter/resume from front to back. It was eye-opening how much he found wrong with it. After I fixed those things, I was able to secure an interview with an F-16 unit at my number one location about 9 months later. He prepped me for my interview, and I ended up being the guy they called for the job. He gave me a great outline of what types of questions to expect and how to interpret what they’re really asking of me. He didn’t prep me with canned answers; it was more along the lines of the general philosophy of how to approach questions, and I think that made a huge difference. His general advice and willingness to help out was invaluable. I am so incredibly thankful, and could not have gotten the slot without his and Bogidope’s help. My only regret is that I didn’t do this sooner: it might have saved me 3.5 years, and several thousand dollars!
End of Session Survey Response –
I just want to thank SMAX for his time and insight. It may seem crazy to you guys, but being able to talk to a fighter pilot 1-on-1 is not something that most people have access to. I was able to identify and address some of the more subtle nuances in what I was saying and the way I was saying it to better connect with someone in the fighter community.
I think the eCourse could be distilled into 5-10 key points that would take significantly less time to address. There are certainly some nuggets in there that you wouldn’t know if you weren’t in the FS community, but most of the information is simply common sense; although, maybe common sense isn’t as common as I think.
I see the 1-on-1 sessions as the real value in this package, and I feel like $99/hr is a reasonable price to pay for that. For this package, I would have liked to see at least 3 hours of counseling for that price.
End of Session Survey Response –
SIC was an awesome guy, and taught me a great deal and gave very good advice. He definitely goes above and beyond to create a relationship rather than just tell you what to do.
End of Session Survey Response –
I enjoyed DJ’s feedback and help with resume and interview prep. He has many years of experience and with his advice, my packet was chosen for an interview out of over 100 applications. I enjoy that he’s straight to the point, no fluff. He tells me what I need to do to increase my chances of getting selected. His interview prep was very helpful, this is a very tough and competitive process and his guidance gave me a fighting chance.
End of Session Survey Response –
Every question I was asked in my board interview was in the question bank.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
Highly recommend the interview prep course. I interviewed at two different squadrons – one I went in preparing just by myself and the second one I caved and purchased this package. It was a night and day difference, and definitely was the tipping point as to why I landed a slot flying F-16s. Cannot recommend DJ enough. Since I was applying for a fighter position, I was expecting to be paired up with a coach who had a fighter background. Instead, due to a tight timeframe, I scheduled a coach with a different background, but I’m glad I did not let my hesitation prevent me from continuing. BogiDope teaches the interview process – this is applicable to all squadrons, and was far more critical and helpful in the end. DJ went above and beyond to prepare me for my interview, gave me frank, helpful advice on every answer, and was motivating and encouraging every step of the way. The support team at BogiDope has always been extremely responsive and helpful, and this course will be well worth your money when you get that call saying you got the job.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I got hired to fly F-16s! Thanks so much for your help with interview prep – made a world of difference in how I was able to present my story. Super excited!!
End of Session Survey Response –
BogiDope has been super helpful in the process of learning more about the Guard and has provided a clearer picture of what that process looks like. I would highly recommend them if you plan on applying or interviewing with a unit. It’s a must!
Kenneth Prince –
Entering the process to become an officer and pilot in the military is an extremely intimidating task. I had no idea what I was getting into, and as soon as I received my first interview I enrolled in the interview prep course through BogiDope. I can wholeheartedly say Bogidope was instrumental in making my dreams come true. I was selected to fly the C-17 in the reserves 2 hours from my hometown, and couldn’t be happier. I promise Bogidope will prepare you for any question they throw at you and you’ll be the most prepared man or woman in the room.
End of Session Survey Reponse –
Nikki was very well prepared, and was very flexible with my timing. Fantastic feedback, helped me craft my answers which helped me get the job.
F-15 UPT Selectee –
I just got the call that I was selected for F15Cs. I’m absolutely thrilled! All the applicants I interviewed with used bogidope at some point in preparation for this interview. I know we all went in knowing we did everything we could.
Bogidope gave me the peace of mind that I did everything I could to get that coveted slot. The mentorship and guidance helped me articulate and find the balance of polished and candid and ensure that I was putting forth the best packet I could. Thank you Nikki and bogidope!
End of Session Survey Response –
I came in thinking I was ready, I was not. Squadron interview has not happened yet but even after one practice session and looking over the recording I knew there was so much to work on and DJs lesson is a life saver. Everything DJ talked about was clear and made alot of sense. DJ is an outstanding coach.
Even after one interview prep session DJ has completely changed my thought process and preparation for my interview. His knowledge and advice is invaluable and Im very happy I decided to spend the money. Would highly recommend the interview prep and especially DJ!
C-130 UPT Selectee –
Looks like I’m going to UPT! I finally did it! Couldn’t have done it without DJ!
End of Session Survey Response –
This service is not cheap and for good reason. The short amount of time you sit in front of the board may be the difference between a go/no-go. You will feel much more confident in your answers and how to really respond to the question being asked. The coaches/mentors know their stuff from experience and will get you to a place you need to have your best shot in the interview. Do yourself a favor, spend the money and be as ready as you possibly can for a chance at a life-changing career.
Having sat through a number of pilot boards, I could tell DJ knew his stuff. Even though this service was expensive, DJ told it like it is and straightened my answers out to where they needed to be and not what I wanted to hear. I appreciated the candid feedback which really helped get to me to the right place on my responses.
DJ said up front he would give me the truth and what was good/bad/ugly and boy did he deliver! Seriously, I felt way better about my chances after having sat through 2 hours of coaching from him.
The existing courses, the question bank, and the professionalism of the staff were spot on. Exceeded my expectations.
C-130 UPT Selectee –
I had the interview yesterday and found out shortly afterwards I got picked up. I really appreciate DJ’s help prepping for it. It was pretty straightforward and didn’t have any surprises. Thanks again!
C-130 UPT Selectee –
Got selected to fly C-130’s with my hometown unit and have Bogidope to thank for my success! Both the eCourse and interview prep with DJ left me feeling extremely prepared and confident for my interview. DJ did an amazing job coaching me
on how to incorporate the background and traits I possess to effectively answer questions that the board would ask. The amount of value you get from this service is well worth the price and I would highly recommend it. You guys are awesome and thanks for the help!
C-130 UPT Selectee –
I got hired to fly C-130’s on my first interview! I honestly believe I got the job because of BogiDope’s eCourses and interview prep sessions. It really prepared me for what to expect come interview day and I was ready for everything. DJ is amazing!! He really helped me sharpen my interview skills and helped me formulate a plan with how to structure my answers. Even if I was asked a specific question that we hadn’t covered in our sessions (we already practiced almost every question I was asked in the interview), we had created a gameplan to refer back to so that I could answer anything. That was a huge confidence boost to help me feel prepared and I would’ve been lost if I interviewed without those sessions. DJ helped me look at my background and really squeeze as much value out of it as possible and help me present myself as a competitive candidate. He’s a lifesaver!
USAF OTS Selectee –
I was able to be selected for an Active Duty pilot slot! Thank you for your Bogidope guidance and encouragement!
A-10 UPT Selectee –
Thank you so much for helping this dream come true. Working with SIC through BogiDope has been a great experience and I really think the work we did was instrumental in getting hired.
End of Session Survey Response –
Signing up/scheduling the interview prep and paying for the service are two different actions on the website. Once a member schedules a session with a coach, they have to navigate to the products page to pay. Streamlined (schedule and pay) would make it easier.
I liked the video examples of answers (in the eCourse) to the big common questions.
Biggs was great on taking notes from our first session and comparing them with our practice during our second session. Appreciated the recordings of our sessions. Every question I had in my interview we had reviewed in the prep.
End of Session Survey Response –
Snip is incredibly knowledgeable and thorough. He always goes above and beyond to make sure his candidates are set up for success. I can’t recommend him highly enough!
End of Session Survey Response –
SIC was awesome and helped me a ton.
The help I received makes me wish I would have done this last year before an interview. Very well put together and great insight.
End of Session Survey Response –
The application and interview prep E-courses were great and the coaching was tremendously valuable. DJ knows his stuff and provided me with the coaching and insight to get the job!
I completely recommend the E-courses and the 1-on-1 coaching!
End of Session Survey Response –
Alex was extremely helpful!! The session was perfect! Only complaint was the question bank document is a little fuzzy / low quality. It would be great if it could be updated!
F-22 UPT Selectee –
I’m going be a F-22 Raptor pilot back home in Hawaii! I’m absolutely fired up about the opportunity and I’ll forever appreciate the help SIC lent me.
The interview went awesome and I can’t thank you enough for allowing me to work with you. I felt calm, cool, and confident throughout it and I can directly attribute our time spent together towards that. Everything just felt natural.
I’m thankful for BogiDope and I’ll be leaving high praise to anyone I speak with.
A-10 UPT Selectee –
Just got the call that I will be apart of the next generation of Hog drivers. I want to thank SIC for his time in coaching me, it obviously helped me achieve my dream. I’m still shaking with excitement for the future.
End of Session Survey Response –
Nikki was awesome she gave me the tools that I needed to feel much more confident going into this interview than I would have otherwise. I would have paid more for the help I received!
KC-46 UPT Selectee –
I want to write and say thank you for all of your coaching and advice during our Bogidope meetings. Due in very large part to that, I was selected to fly the KC-46!
Your advice was invaluable and I felt equipped and confident going into the interview thanks to the Bogidope courses and our one-on-one sessions.
If I could pass on any advice to future applicants/interviewees it would be to go in prepared for anything. I was expecting a fairly formal day of questions and proving myself. However, that wasn’t the case. The interview was formal, but for the rest of the day, the Squadron just wanted to see how I acted in the “down” time- whether that be at lunch or just waiting for the next event with everyone in the heritage room. So I think adaptability and an “up for anything” attitude are crucial for the interview day. I just wanted to share that in case you ever have another mentee like me who has a tendency to want to over-prepare for a certain situation or interview experience.
Thank you again for all of your help!
A-10 UPT Selectee –
The results are in and believe it or not……….I got the job!!! Still can’t believe it but hey here we are. Overall I would say that everything we went over was pretty much present in my interview.
The interview was an all day event for this squadron. It consisted of a line pilot interview, technical interview, commander’s interview, and a brief 30 minute stint in the simulator. The line pilot interview was what you would think the interview would be. It was basically like our mock interviews. The technical interview was just them seeing what all you remembered from what ever flight training you have had up to this point. the commander’s interview was like the line pilot interview but just with the commander. The simulator was them having you fly around and perform basic maneuvers and follow basic instructions. In addition I got to do a few gun runs. The catch was they were asking you questions about your application while your doing trying to fly. I had a little bit of a hard landing but the pilots told me don’t worry about it because the sim doesn’t fly like the real airplane lol. Nobody can seem to do a good landing in it.
Anyway, I think what you brought to the table for interview prep was on point. I wasn’t caught off guard by any of the questions because even though I can’t remember them, they were basically everything we went over and I stuck with my narrative. SIC is definitely the guy to go to for A-10 interviews. It really is crazy to think I would get a job offer at the first interview I have done, especially at my age being 28. I definitely couldn’t have made it this far without the help from SIC, SNIP, DJ, and BogiDope. Thank you guys so much again. I’ll see you up in the skies hopefully if medical doesn’t knock my ass out of the chase.
ATTACK!!!
A-10 UPT Selectee –
Biggs was focused on the little details that creates the whole picture. He helped me get my timing right for all of my softball questions and made sure I had a good selection of stories to answer the curveballs. I also had issues with a low GPA and we hammered out a strong answer.
As for the price, I believe the interview prep ecourse is a little high at $169 on its own for how broad some of the information can be. However, with this package the money is made with the 1-on-1’s and I think you could charge more for that.
Because of Bogidope’s and Bigg’s help, I got hired to fly A-10’s. The entire package was an outstanding resource to help prepare for the interview. I know I had a leg up on some of my competition because of this course, and I will recommend everything bogidope offers to anyone interested in becoming a military pilot.
C-17 UPT Selectee –
Just wanted to thank you folks for this program, I was recently selected for a C-17 position in the guard. I got it on my 1st interview with my home station, definitely could not have done it without you folks. I prepared for the interview with a fighter pilot mentality, however my #1 choice was to fly the C-17. With DJ being the perfect coach for my option, he taught me how to strategically present myself. I firmly believe you have one shot to prove yourself to the boards, bogidope will 110% prepare you for that chance of a lifetime.
End of Session Survey Response –
DUK gave me some of his experiences and some things he’s seen in his time being a coach. Extremely helpful and made me feel much more prepared for the interview.
End of Session Survey Response –
Nick couldn’t have been a better pick or coach for this interview. Just the man I needed.
End of Session Survey Response –
DJ has had many years spent as part of the Air National Guard and it showed. He provided very useful information that was very similar to what I experienced in my interview. I felt way more prepared after the first interview prep class and even more so after completing subsequent interview preps.
End of Session Survey Response –
Snip was very knowledgeable. I wish I could give more than 5 stars.
Working around a schedule can be tough. I’d like to see one calendar that lists who can work each day instead of hunting through each person’s profile.
End of Session Survey Response –
I will say that Mr. Jeff Durbin and Mr. Alex Haldopoulos had different tactics on how to approach the interview. Alex’s strategy ended up being most in line with my personality and goals and was why I ended up doing an additional session with him. I think it would be helpful if in the bios of each coach there was a snippet about their strategy for winning an interview or a short video clip that gave a better sense of their personalities. I initially chose the slots that worked best with my schedule regardless of who the coach was, but am so glad I had the opportunity to work with both of them!
End of Session Survey Reponse –
The Interview Prep E-Course and the 1-on-1 coaching with David Spisso truly helped me to feel prepared for interview day. Instead of walking into the interview hoping that I had prepared properly, I knew that I was confident and ready thanks to Bogidope!
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The course is laid out very well, and really lends itself to understand and retaining the knowledge with its short sections and video/text format.
End of Session Survey Response –
DJ is incredible. Has it together.
ANG UPT Selectee –
DJ and the Bogidope crew are life changers! I had a few interviews prior to purchasing the course. I completed the course, and my next interview the following week I was hired! The insight is invaluable and the feedback/recommendations are spot on! Can’t describe in words how beneficial this course is. Applicants, buy the course!! Thanks DJ!
End of Session Survey Response –
The BogiDope interview prep course overall seems only slightly overpriced for what you get in the course itself. The videos are fairly short (4-6 minutes average) and there was only a minor addition to the context. HOWEVER, the question bank and the 1-on-1 interviews are absolutely the crux of this particular eCourse. These are absolutely key and are amazing tools for anyone’s kitbag. Maintaining access to the eCourse will mean that I will continue to refer to the awesome context for future interviews!
End of Session Survey Response –
BogiDope is amazing and their services are absolutely necessary for securing a UPT slot with Guard/Reserve units as they are unlike any other job interview.
Snip is all the way around outstanding. I would have paid more for the help I received!
C-130 UPT Selectee –
I got selected for a C-130 unit near my home town. I really appreciate DJ’s help with interview prep, I can’t tell you how much better of an applicant it has made me. They said my interview dazzled the Board and I couldn’t have done it without the help.
C-17 UPT Selectee –
I would like to thank you guys for the help and guidance. Your resources and personal input were 100% instrumental in my getting hired. Also, it turns out quoting Ricky Bobby in the interview is effective.
F-15 UPT Selectee –
Snip was great! He was very responsive, friendly, and he went the extra mile to help get me prepared!
C-130 UPT Selectee –
The interviews went awesome. I accepted the job at the (C-130 squadron). Thank you for all of your help. Every question that we went over in the interview prep was what was asked by both boards.
ANG UPT Selectee –
157 applicants (about 20 interviewees) for one pilot slot and two nav slots. I found out a few days later that they had permission to hire a second pilot. I was selected for a pilot slot.
Thank you for your help. The prep course and your mock interviews were absolutely worth it. I know we ran longer than the scheduled time slots, and I appreciate your extra time and effort.
End of Session Survey Response –
Biggs definitely had a good grasp on typical interview skills you need to succeed, and also knew how to gear those skills towards a military flying job.
End of Session Survey Response –
Snip is awesome! Extremely helpful and accommodating!
End of Session Survey Response –
Alex was an awesome coach! I feel 100 times more ready for my interview after our two sessions together. Top quality.
End of Session Survey Response –
BogiDope’s combo package is an amazing investment in your future as an AFR/ANG Pilot. I watched my application package transform into one that stood out amongst hundreds of others, landing me an interview with my dream squadron. The eCourses are designed professionally and efficiently. Each section was packed with great tips and advice from experts who know exactly what units look for in an applicant. It is designed by pilots who have been through the process themselves, sat on interview boards, and understand what it takes to succeed. I had the opportunity to work with D.J. Spisso on both my app & interview prep. D.J. offered advice & guidance that I would not have been able to receive on my own. The interview prep included great information about what to expect, how to answer tough questions, and how to succeed. D.J. helped to work with me to figure out my strengths and how to present myself in the interview. By using the BogiDope Combo Package, I was able to land my dream pilot slot on the first try. I recommend to anyone who wants this opportunity, to make the investment in your future with the help of BogiDope!
End of Session Survey Response –
DJ was very generous with his time! Ensured that each interview prep session was completed to standard, not to time. Thank you for filling in the niche of military board preparations!
Jeremy Hicks –
I worked with Biggs, and I would *highly* recommend him, and this entire program in general. I was one of the candidates getting a bit long in the tooth age-wise, but a benefit of that is a lot of civilian work experience, especially with interviewing. While, in general, I feel like communication is one of my stronger skill sets, this course taught me how to take that skill set not just to the next level, but up multiple levels (read: I wasn’t nearly as polished as I thought I was). I left my interview feeling confident–I kid you not: I did multiple fist pumps in their bathroom mirror afterwards to release the excitement and energy–and I was blessed to end up getting a true dream slot with a unit and mission I love. I couldn’t have done it without this course.
The key things I want to drive home are these:
1. If you want to be a pilot, odds are, you’ve already spent several thousands of dollars in flight training and such. And as a Guard or Reserve applicant, you’re likely going to spend $10K+ on working through your PPL, traveling to rush units, mailing packages, traveling to interview, etc. Some of the best advice I’ve received is–in business and in leisure–don’t balk in the margins. What that means is, if you’re already spending $10k+ on something, what’s another $300 towards your life’s dream? I say all of that to say, DON’T LET THE PRICE TAG GIVE YOU PAUSE. BUY THIS. PERIOD. The value of the online content paired with the mock interviews is worth multiples more than what they’re charging.
2. You may be tempted to skip the online content and just focus on the interviews–DON’T. Read through *all* of it. I referenced it before and after my actual mock interviews and it’s great content that will really help you hone in your interview craft. You may only get one shot at an interview, and you’ve already paid for the content at this point, so you may as well get the most out of it!
3. The way they help you take your lift experiences and coach you on how to tie those into strengths, and to give quality, engaging answers is ::chef’s kiss::. I’ll leave it at that–I don’t want to encroach into trade secret territory and giving away their content for free–but *this* is the aspect I felt takes you to another planet. Biggs coached me through this, helped me choose quality stories, and helped me understand how those not only answer questions but help me show I could be of value/a good fit with the unit, too.
If you’re a Guard/Reserve candidate and you’re reading this and you’ve got an interview coming up, just buy this service. Period. It will be some of the best money you’ve ever spent, I promise you.
End of Session Survey Response –
Can’t say anything in particular other than DJ is awesome. He helped me on my application package consult and my interview immensely.
End of Session Survey Response –
I definitely understand that you have to have somewhat generic content since you’re providing it for civilian -> UPT, prior service -> UPT and Rated, but it would be nice to see more examples for each. Sometimes the example was not helpful at all since it covered someone with prior service and I am civilian only. Overall though it’s great!
End of Session Survey Response –
Quality product great people appreciate the wealth of knowledge. The help and guidance is invaluable in the end. I’ve already recommended it to a few friends.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
Just wanted to let you know that I received a pilot slot with the 119th FS in the NJANG. Thank you so much for your help and I look forward to joining the F-16 community!
End of Session Survey Response –
Snip was great! Went way above and beyond to help me get prepared for multiple different fighter interviews.
I was hesitant about the price tag at first, but the prep was worth it’s weight in gold for helping me get out of my shell and learn how to confidently show off my achievements and why I would be the best guy for the job. I’ve recommended it to all of my friends that are applying as well- can’t say enough good things!
One small thought would be maybe a little more instruction for units that require a personal pre-recorded video as one of the interview phases. 99% of the info is covered in the “Tell Me About Yourself” question prep stuff, but maybe some specifics on what not to do when you’re recording or other ways to stand out but keep the video professional.
End of Session Survey Response –
I would recommend Alex “Biggs” to anyone using Bogidope. Very professional, friendly but direct in how to best the most prepared applicant possible.
End of Session Survey Response –
I thought my application and interview skills were solid but I realized it was a night and day difference! Dj is the bomb!
F-16 UPT Selectee –
Just wanted to say thank you for all the help. I couldn’t have done it without your advice. I got hired in toledo. Now on to the next steps for me. Thanks again
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I worked with snip for two sessions. Just got picked up as a Primary UPT candidate at an F-16 unit. Here’s my feedback:
1.) I really enjoyed Snip, I felt like he was on my team. He’s great at offering actionable critiques civilly. He also went over the prescribed time both sessions which was again evidence that he was for me.
2.) While there is no way to prepare for everything, I thought that the structure of the question bank forced me to get my stories together to help paint a clear, inspiring and genuine, picture to the board members. Good on BD for that.
3.) The questions packet was a good tool and so was the interview packet. Again, I felt there was no way to be prepared for all questions but the question bank got my gears turning.
4.) Honestly, overall I am very satisfied with BD services— even after my first interview in SD two weeks ago, which I was not selected for, I felt prepared.
End of Session Survey Response –
Very in depth and helped me answer anything that came up, even if it wasn’t word for word. When I went into my interview nothing caught me off guard.
End of Session Survey Response –
Alex was great and gave really good feedback.
F-16 UPT Selectee –
I had my first interview this past weekend with the South Dakota ANG, and got the call yesterday that I got the job! I bought the interview prep package and worked with Snip for both sessions. I cannot express to you how grateful I am for the service you guys are providing and Snip’s guidance. I had done a ton of studying and preparing on my own for the interview, and considered not purchasing any professional services, but boy am I glad I did. I think I was on the right track and had some decent responses, but working with Snip really helped refine my approach and gave me a ton more confidence going into the interview. So, thank you guys so much for helping guys like me land their absolute dream job. Down the road if I ever run across anyone who is looking at the Guard, I will absolutely point them towards BogiDope and Snip.
F-15 UPT Selectee –
I wanted to thank you and Bogidope for your help and mentorship throughout my journey of trying to get sponsored by a unit. I graduated in May and commissioned into the USAF Reserve the same day. I was unsponsored Reserve and trying to find a squadron sponsor. You guys helped me perfect my application packages and land interviews with the 190th Fighter Squadron in Boise, ID and the 194th Fighter Squadron in Fresno, CA. I just got the amazing call that I was hired as the primary UPT candidate for the 194th Fighter Squadron in CA to fly Eagles! I am beyond excited for this opportunity and looking forward to the hard work ahead! I believe you mentioned that you fly F-15Cs? If so, I hope to see you in the Big Blue someday!
F-35 UPT Selectee –
Bogidope’s service has been invaluable to me. You helped provide the tools I needed to build a strong cover letter and resume, as well as the material and confidence to tackle interviews.
With this, I was able to put them to the test in another two interviews and landed the last one! The Red Tails want to send me to UPT!
Thank you for working with me over the last few years. I hope you guys keep growing. You have an awesome business that I have and will continue to recommend to anyone dreaming of flying for our country.
End of Session Survey Response –
This was awesome, 10/10 recommend
AFRC UPT Selectee –
I got an offer at the 301st RQS in Florida. I can’t even begin to tell you what a huge relief it is to be finally have a concrete offer somewhere. I have no doubt your feedback helped me not hook that interview.
End of Session Survey Response –
D.J. took the time to work on my overall approach and thought process concerning the interview. That was the game changer – being able to reframe my attitude about the interview and pitch to the board. I appreciated that he genuinely cared and took the time to figure out where I was at. Then he tailored his criticisms and advice to what he saw would make the biggest difference.
End of Session Survey Response –
Flow was great – appreciated that it covered the entire process
C-17 UPT Selectee –
Dover picked me up for UPT flying the C-17. Thanks a lot for your help!
Thanks again and thank you for making such an awesome website. It really helped in my search for squadrons that are hiring. I recommend it to anyone I talk to who’s interesting in becoming a military aviator.
F-35 UPT Selectee –
Great news! I got the spot! It looks like I will be flying the F-35. Your help and feedback a long the way was invaluable.
I think I might have bought the first BogiDope consulting packages when the business was first established. Prior to your website, I was cold calling these units, handing in 4 page resumes with sub 50 AFOQT scores, and then never hearing anything.
Since working with you the past few years, I learned what parts of my package I needed to fix, and where I should spend my time. Not originally knowing anyone in military aviation, talking to you in our conversions helped steer both my military and civilian careers. I definitely plan on continuing to use BogiDope consulting in the future to enhance both careers if needed. I couldn’t have recommended you guys more to other candidates on the circuit, and I can not thank you enough.
End of Session Survey Response –
Flexibility of the schedule/available times was extremely helpful for me since my full time job is a shift worker. Thank you for all the help.
C-17 UPT Selectee –
Thank you John for your priceless knowledge and advice! I could not have done this without your mentorship and guidance. Will be soon flying the C-17 for the Hawaii Air National Guard!
End of Session Survey Response –
I scheduled the prep as soon as I landed my first interview with a fighter squadron. I got the job. BogiDope helped me frame my experiences into a cohesive pitch that was honest and impactful.
Objectively, my interview strategy and skills were improved. Subjectively, the Interview Prep made me walk in with high confidence.
If you land an interview, this consult is a no brainer.
End of Session Survey Response –
I loved the way the mock interview was conducted. Feedback after every question was helpful instead of waiting until the very end and doing it all at once. Great format.
I felt really confident walking into the interview. No matter the question asked, I had an answer. Both Slap and Bender were super chill which helped facilitate a productive conversation.
I will do my best to spread the word of the services that BogiDope offers.
End of Session Survey Response –
John’s live interview feedback was incredibly useful. The most important part of it to me was understanding what a good interview answer sounded like in terms of cadence, organization, and content, since I was able to apply that to my other interview questions.
End of Session Survey Response –
Extremely informative, and very applicable to interviews/similar social interactions in general – A lot of the non-verbal advice was invaluable.
Something I would’ve found useful would have been in the “what not to say” section. As the Interview Guide said, it’s not a bad thing to disclose that you’ve applied to other squadrons, however, I’ve heard advice that for someone who wants fighters, they should not be afraid to say that they ONLY want to fly fighters, and won’t compromise by considering heavies or other airframes. In fact, I’ve heard that when asked, for example, “would you fly C-130’s?” if the applicant’s answer is anything but “No, I only want fighters” or something along those lines, that the interview board would consider that negatively.
Also, for the “would you kill someone” questions, I’ve heard to not be wishy-washy here. The answer should always contain a confident call of judgement, and no hesitation to act. A lukewarm “yeah, I guess if I had to…” sort of answer would be viewed negatively.
Overall, one of my interviewers said basically to try and relax, and not worry too much about about answering the questions precisely – The intent of the questions is often to simply serve as a jumping-off point to get to know the applicant better.
The questions were organized very logically, and the blue/green questions tailored to prior-military/UPT candidates was very informative. However, I drew a total blank for many of those questions, and didn’t really know how to approach it. Perhaps have a couple of bullets to help get someone started on research for that answer would be helpful. For example, the question “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” might have some bullets like “Flying part-time? full-time? getting 4FLUG or IPUG?”. Overall – great summary of other online resources, and then some.
End of Session Survey Response –
It was awesome to see the passion my coach had for preparing me as he is someone who has been through the ANG selection process himself. Great company and even though I did not get the slot today, I will continue to work with BogiDope and most defiantly recommend your services to others like me.
End of Session Survey Response –
Very comprehensive and everything was expanded on in addition by my BogiDope coach.
In the interview, every question (besides bespoke to my resume) could be found in the question bank
End of Session Survey Response –
It was spot on. I really appreciated that the content was actionable.
End of Session Survey Response –
It was well worth the price.
End of Session Survey Response –
I was really glad I did the interview prep package and would have paid more, though I’m not sure I would have thought the same thing before going through it. I only realized how useful it was after going through the process and an interview and having the interview match up very closely with the prep.