His "timing" may just be right.. 4yr college degree at an aviation college,
get it in management of some type, or engineering may be better and get the
ratings... the "bottom of the food chain" is being sucked dry around here.

Used to be the local "ditch runners" flying turbo props for tourists to the
Grand Canyon required 1500hrs total time and 500 multi
now they are taking 500hr pilots with a Commercial Multi Instrument to "ride
right seat", entry level wages at $15-16K. Move up to Captain in a couple of
years at double the wage.

The entry level positions are open, because those Captains with experience
are being sucked into the regional's as everyone moves up the food chain
with the SBBP (Senior Baby Boomer Pilots) facing mandatory retirement at
age. Did I see a report last week that the first of the Baby Boomers are now
Medicare and Social Security eligible?

Most of our local "young CFIs" are coming from three places, staying about
12-18 months and moving on.

UND, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks ND
ERAU, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott AZ
Utah State University, Logan UT,
http://www.usu.edu/majorsheets/04-05/Pilot04.pdf

One of my co-workers son completed the Utah State program and stayed as an
instructor and is doing very well.
BT

"Jay Honeck" wrote in message
oups.com...
As many of you know, my son is taking flight lessons. He's past solo,
and into his cross-country flights.

He's a senior in high school, and is wondering what to do with the
rest of his life. His initial aim has been going into engineering,
but has decided that math is not something he truly enjoys. (Although
he's good at it -- far, far more advanced than I am.)

He's now toying with the idea of a career in aviation. Possibilities
include:

- Commercial pilot
- Helicopter pilot
- Something on the business side of aviation.

I need some first-hand experiences, please. Hours worked, what to
expect at the entry level, how much college does your job require,
types of skills required, etc. What kinds of careers are out there
right now? What sort of college degree should a 17 year old pursue in
order to come out the other end with a successful job in aviation?

We're filling out applications for colleges, and his choice of
colleges will be steered by his decisions. Your input is very much
appreciated!
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"