Training for furloughed pilots

[C-5 MEM]

I was talking to a US Air pilot who was furloughed. He said that since he was furloughed that he is getting free 737 type. I thought he was joking until I talked with a Northwest pilot who was doing the same thing. They both said you have to go to employment services, but could not find it for 4 guys in our military unit. Does anyone know anything about this?


Terry Vickers
CRJ/FO
ACA

 

[airtoair]

Try doing a search under WIA (Workforce Investment? or Improvement Act) There's been other discussions about this. I've asked around a little and found that it varies significantly by state - even though it's federal funding. I believe some people have gone to the appropriate state where the training is conducted when they couldn't get funds in state of residence.

 

[typhoonpilot]

Another good place to try is the schools themselves. Look at the banner ad at the top of this webboard. Aeroservices in Miami and another I can't think of the name of right now have been doing a lot of the training.

Typhoonpilot

 

[LittleDeuce]

WIA

The "Workforce Investment ACT" (WIA) is availible to all displaced workers. You need to go through your state unemployment office.

Most pilots will get up to $8,000 for their type ratings, and are doing so in droves.

BTW. US Airways contract training will be offering A-320 and B-737-300 type ratings next month. The A-320 type is $2,800 cheaper than Pan Am.

The training will be availible to the general public, not just US Airways pilots.

 

[Capthuff]

I have been seeing discussions about WIA for some time now on this site. I have a question tho... I am not a furloghed airline pilot but I did lose a job (Part 135 King Air Captain) due to 9/11. Is it possible that I might qualifie for some assistance?

 

[bobbysamd]

WIA

Maybe you can. It sure sounds that way, at least in Colorado:

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment has received a National Emergency Grant for 7.5 million dollars. This grant is to provide assistance to workers who have lost their jobs due to the 9/11/01 tragedy. In Colorado those affected industries are Airlines, Tourism, Aviation, Financial Services, Telecommunications, and High Technology companies. These funds are available to assist affected workers obtain employment and can provide for career counseling, testing, resume writing assistance and other job search related services. Services can also include training when needed. (emphasis added)

Taken from the Layoff Assistance Page from the Colorado Division of Labor and Employment.

Try running an internet search on "Workforce Investment Act" for your state.

Good luck.

 

[flyhard]

I know in Missouri the max amount for the type is $6000. I had a couple lof buddies that did it and it was a long process to get the money.

 

[ultrarunner]

My experience in NYS in Nov 2001 was a pretty quick process. Just a few weeks start to finish. You should be able to go to your states' website regarding WIA funding. In NYS for example, you can to that site and look at the eligible training providers.

Since your need is 737 specific. I'd contact the 737 training providers as a previous poster pointed out, and they will likely stream-line the process fro you.

 

[LAZYB]

"stream-line" is not a government term

delay, paperwork, bureaucracy, sit-on, study, etc. are officially understood US Govt terms to live and die by...

 

[DASHDRIVER]

Is it the right thing to do?

I know that we all as profesional pilots have mainline jet dreams. Yet to present a counter point; is it really a good idea to be taking this money and blowing it on a type? Yes I know its really nice to put on a resume. But unless you already have 121 PIC time it really is not going to do much good. I know it is easier for me to say, being still employeed, but I have been thinking if I get turned loose I will use that money to further my other options. A buisness degree or somthing that can keep me working everytime one of these crap cycles comes around and everyone looses there job. Not trying to say its wrong, just another view

happy holidays

DD