Job

[avbug]

So how do the marbles play into the whole thing, then? What happens when you run out of marbles?

 

[doog]

So how do the marbles play into the whole thing, then? What happens when you run out of marbles?

That's about when you realize you've lost your marbles.

 

[414Flyer]

Well I would say a lot of people like us who enjoy fire flying and would like to make career out of it, would be considered by many types (of lesser people) to have lost our marbles.

 

[acpilot]

I finally got a job flying air attack and am wondering if the tanker companies (aerounion/neptune/minden) would take that kind of work into account when reviewing my resume (asusming its accepted with my times). What can I do to improve my odds of being "picked up" by a tanker company? I'd like to take my career in the firefighting direction and would appriciate any help any of you guys can give.

 

[avbug]

A tanker company is looking for someone who meets the qualifications, and who is available. Presently there are still a lot of tanker pilots who are qualified who are available.

The big secret is to keep after it; keep pursuing the company. In the morning when the job comes up, it's the person standing in front of the desk, hat in hand and resume on the table, that gets the job.

Air attack experience may help a little, but it isn't really something that makes you competitive. Honestly, having a mechanic certificate would be of more interest, as would hands on experience working on airplanes, and most of all, a willingness to get dirty. Not that tanker pilots do a lot of wrenching any more. But it's worth more to a tanker operator to have a pilot who's not afraid to sweat...because you will.

What flying air attack will do for you is give you an introduction to the fire traffic area and fire operations in general. It will give you a chance to operate around others, to make some contacts, get your foot in the door.

Have fun. It beats working, any day.

 

[Swass]

Excellent post Av.

You really should see Urban Cowboy though. Sissy is a hot b1tch (in a PWT type of way).

 

[flyingwildfires]

Persistence pays off more than anything. Being in the right place, at the right time, and knowing people, is the way this industry works. If you have been trying like hell, and making contacts, then maybe you'll be the one they call when old Ralph drops dead and doesn't show for work.

Good luck.

 

[MTpilot]

Don't go get your A and P just for this, you don't need it anymore. Those old guys think you do but they are full of it! Pilots don't fly all day and turn wrenches all night anymore the duty day won't allow it. Just keep sending in your resume and keep talking to whoever is "chief pilot" today. Pack a bag and say goodbye to girlfriend and your wife, and before you know it you'll be a dumb******************** tanker pilot just like us. Best of Luck you poor dumb bastard!