Graduate
I am a graduate of Spartan & a former flight/ground instructor & check airman.
Flying is expensive. Everything in aviation is expensive and with the economy, price of gas, etc., it is only going to get worse. If you think the prices here are bad, go over to Britian or Europe, you would turn right around and fly back, it's ridiculous.
Spartan is a pilot factory, always has been, always will be. I came to Spartan in the mid-90's with my private. I got all my ratings at Spartan except my ATP. I had an excellant instructor that pushed me through the program. I graduated with a 2 year degree from Sparan and a 4 year degree from Phillips.
After a year hiates, I returned to flight instruct and teach 2 ground classes. I initially had 14 students and was sick of "primary" students after 6 months, so I started taking instrument, commercial, CFI, CFII and the all mighty MER students. I thoroughly enjoyed making $18K a year doing what I loved to do. I loved flying so much that I took a paycut to go fly 75,000 pound airplanes at the regionals for about $17,000 a year. After a year of starving, I now make $80k a year flying business jets.
Spartan, although considered by some as the Mickey Mouse world of flying, will provide you with a good foundation to start your career. The aviation industry is much tighter than it was 5 years ago. Major airlines are not hiring, regional airlines are thriving thanks to the suffering majors and corporate aviation is more competitive today than in years past.
If you want a career in aviation, Spartan is a good start and the Chief Pilot is a down to earth person and a friend of mine. Embry, North Dakota and all the other mom and pop flight schools all have pro's and con's too, it is just how your personally approach your training.
Remember, you attitude now directly affects your attitude at FL 410.
Good luck, it's not too late to sign up at Truck Masters.
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