Air Guard?

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I was wondering if anyone had any information about the Air National Guard and how to fly for them. I am currently going to college, and I would rather stay out of the military until I am done with my degree. Is there any chance that I can graduate college and get selected for a pilot slot with a guard unit without enlisting first, or is this not even remotely possible?

Thanks!

 

[Slice121]

I was wondering if anyone had any information about the Air National Guard and how to fly for them. I am currently going to college, and I would rather stay out of the military until I am done with my degree. Is there any chance that I can graduate college and get selected for a pilot slot with a guard unit without enlisting first, or is this not even remotely possible?

Thanks!

Yes it is possible and many have done it. Do a search of this board there is alot of ANG info. You will need at least a PPL to be given a realistic shot at an interview/job.

 

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How helpful is a commercial multi engine certificate? Thanks for the info, I'll run a search.

 

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Ok, ran a search, left me with a few answers and a lot of questions. What is the difference between the Air Force Reserve and the Air Guard? What are the pro's and con's of each? Is is possible to go from a civilian to the Air Force Reserve? I heard somewhere (correct or not I do not know) that to be in the reserve you need to be active duty first?

 

[frog_flyer]

your search/researching skills suck. i'm suprised you made it to college.

baseops.net can help you out.

 

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Thanks for the baseops.net. Yeah, I need to work on that. Obviously it doesn't take a genius to go to college.

 

[pkober]

The difference between the Guard and Reserves is that Guard guys are way cooler and smell better.

The biggest difference is who controls the Guard. During peace time the
Guard is state controlled. When federally activated we become part of the active duty Air Force. The good thing is that it is only temporary. Also Guard units can only be moved within a state, not from New York to California. Of course, now the DOD is just closing some Guard units.

As far as having no enlisted time prior to applying for a slot it is definetly do able. I didn't have any prior time when selected. The flying is a huge plus. Most units know that a guy with flight time will have no problem with UPT. Some do wash out but not at the numbers that no prior flight time guys.

The big thing is apply at every unit you can and then keep applying even if turned down after an interview, its all about perserverance.

Good Luck

CLAMBAKE

 

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pkober, thanks for the explanation. Does being from out of state put you at a disadvantage when you are applying for a slot?

 

[GasPasser]

You have a better shot being the local candidate, but it doesn't rule you out if you are not. I've actually heard from those that sit on the selection boards that many of the candidates they have interviewed are not the brightest bulbs on the string. I was surprised by that. I was an off the street guy (like you) years ago, and was one of the lucky 10 selected for an interview from the 50 applicants. Desire, personality, general knowledge, and a strong desire to serve are important. All you need is a PPL. Don't waste your time/money on a commercial rating just for the ANG resume. If you have one already, fine, but it won't increase your chances much unless you are putting it to use to fly for someone else. Good luck!

 

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Thanks!

 

[L-1011-500]

I am in the Air Guard and have sat on numerous pilot selection boards and I can tell you first hand to have a good interview is almost as important as the pilots licence. Last one I sat on I watched numerous candidates fidget, look at the floor, mumble answers etc. I don't know you so please don't take offense to this but make sure you interview well. There are lot's of avenues to brush up on them. It helps tremendously if you are a local kid versus being from 3 states away. Also if you really want to be a pilot go for what ever unit will send you to training. Don't get all hung up on flying a certain airframe. If you want to fly a fighter then go for it. If you want an airline job go after a tanker/transport unit. Both Guard units I have flown in have given huge preference to guys already in the unit with the qualifications. Twice I have sat on a board where there were some good candidates and we picked the guy already in the unit as he's more of a known quantity. Both times the guys turned out to be a great choice. You have to go out and network yourself. We don't come looking for you. So make it known you want in to as many units as you can and keep up on when they are having another board. It's up to you to get there. I hope you make it.

 

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I really appreciate that information. That's probably the best information that I have gotten yet even after visiting the local guard unit a couple of times checking things out. Thanks!

 

[positiveg]

Man, for someone that wants to be in the ANG, it sure sucks to live in FL.