School, Marriage, Kids. Can it be done.

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DrDigitized2

New Member
Hi. I am 24 years old. I am planing on attending a flight school in Aug. I am also going to enroll in aviation classes online. My wife is the only one that works and she only makes about $23k a year. We have 2 girls, ages 3,4. I am planing on enrolling them in school as well as seeing if I can get free child care to help watch them while I take the classes. One other thing that makes it hard is that my wife works from 10pm to 7am Tuesday through saturday. We are also going to have to take out financial aid and grants to pay for all of the schooling. The flight training is supposed to cost around $45k and a guarantied job at $15 dollars an hour to be a flight instructor to help build my flight hours. But they don't guarantee 40 hours a week.

Really what I want to know. Is this evan possible? I know my family can handle me being gone once I finish my training and get a job, But how do I get that far. Does anyone have any suggestions or any success stories? That would really help.

Also the school I am planing on attending is Air Safety Flight Academy and there website is http://www.airsafetyacademy.com/index.htm
Please let me know what you think about the school and its prices.
 
Hmm. I don't quite understand what happened. The forum is not clear on that. I know that the school her in denison tx only requires a $1500 dollar deposit and a positive balance of $500 bucks to get the rates shown on the website. So if they disappear you should only lose out on 2k versus one of the other companies that you could lose over $70k. My mind on school is not made up but it is the closest school to me being only 7 miles away.
 
I know it's close to you.

I know you want to fulfill your dreams.

I know you don't really understand what happened.

But step away for a moment, and don't sign on the dotted line quite yet. If there's this much discontent over the place, you probably want to most likely steer clear, or at the absolute least figure out why folks are so pissed off about the place.

Don't let your dream turn into a nightmare, like has happened to so many other people, because the school was close, or they promised you something they couldn't deliver, or this, or that. You have your wife and kids to think of at this point, and to brutally honest, leaving home for a period of time to pursue your training might be the best option because of any number of reasons.

I'm from Michigan, and while I logged my first 200 hours and got my private and instrument in Michigan near where I'm from, I finished my training in Texas over a summer. It wasn't fun being away from my then girlfriend (now wife), but it was the best solution that we had at the time.

Weigh all your options, including those that would take you away for a little bit of time to finish your training. There are some real steals out there are far as flight training go, and then there are some places that will steal your money faster than you can possibly imagine.

Remember, when somebody is selling you a dream, they can make the terms so unbelievably unfair that anybody in their right mind would never agree to them.

But you're not in your right mind, this is a dream. Be careful how you pursue it, because the last thing anybody needs is another person coming on here talking about how they got scammed because they didn't do their research, or moved too fast in making a decision, or this, or that.
 
DrDigitized2 said:
Hi. I am 24 years old. I am planing on attending a flight school in Aug. I am also going to enroll in aviation classes online. My wife is the only one that works and she only makes about $23k a year. We have 2 girls, ages 3,4. I am planing on enrolling them in school as well as seeing if I can get free child care to help watch them while I take the classes. One other thing that makes it hard is that my wife works from 10pm to 7am Tuesday through saturday. We are also going to have to take out financial aid and grants to pay for all of the schooling. The flight training is supposed to cost around $45k and a guarantied job at $15 dollars an hour to be a flight instructor to help build my flight hours. But they don't guarantee 40 hours a week.

Really what I want to know. Is this evan possible? I know my family can handle me being gone once I finish my training and get a job, But how do I get that far. Does anyone have any suggestions or any success stories? That would really help.

Also the school I am planing on attending is Air Safety Flight Academy and there website is http://www.airsafetyacademy.com/index.htm
Please let me know what you think about the school and its prices.
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Here's a recommendation - it's free advice so you're getting what you paid for. ;)

You don't make enough money as a family to do this - and you won't make enough money to pay for all the financial aid you will be taking out. Taking out a loan of any type buys you risk. In this case, the risk is after training is complete you may not be able to make the payments on the loans.

If I were in your shoes and really wanted to fly for a living, I would do the following.

1. Work about 80 hours a week doing anything from lawn mowing, bartending, or pizza delivering.
2. Live a very spartan lifestyle. Provide the basics for my family and save.
3. Build 6 months worth of expenses as an emergency fund.
4. Save all the money needed for flight training.
5. Pay cash as you go at a reputable flight school.

Basically, sacrifice now in order to have a better life later.

Best of luck!
 
Ian J said:
Here's a recommendation - it's free advice so you're getting what you paid for. ;)

You don't make enough money as a family to do this - and you won't make enough money to pay for all the financial aid you will be taking out. Taking out a loan of any type buys you risk. In this case, the risk is after training is complete you may not be able to make the payments on the loans.

If I were in your shoes and really wanted to fly for a living, I would do the following.

1. Work about 80 hours a week doing anything from lawn mowing, bartending, or pizza delivering.
2. Live a very spartan lifestyle. Provide the basics for my family and save.
3. Build 6 months worth of expenses as an emergency fund.
4. Save all the money needed for flight training.
5. Pay cash as you go at a reputable flight school.

Basically, sacrifice now in order to have a better life later.

Best of luck!
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I agree with this.

I'm not trying to be a jerk here but it actually sounds like a ridiculous question to me. I know you've probably got this awesome dream and think that maybe you can not only be happy living your dream but one day provide a better life for your family doing it, but what about the family's standard of living today? A family of 4, on 26k, has already got to be a struggle anyways, and you're asking her to support the family on that so that in a short period of time you can succeed in putting your family in debt by more than two full year's pay? Again, while she's possibly already struggling to take care of a family of four on 26k a year? Not to mention most pilots can't find a good paying job until they've built up some time and experience. I'm honestly not trying to be a jerk, but that's something you should have done before having a family. Now I think you're best option would be to work hard now, save up, take your time and pay cash as Ian said. I do think it can be done but I don't think the fast track is an option for you right now.
 
Try looking into this school:

http://www.usflightacademy.com/

Having said that you should heed the advice already given to you. At age 24 with two kids and your wife's the only one working making $23k, (not $26k Pam).

I simply don't understand how as a man you could sit back and allow your wife to work, and be the sole provider on a poverty level salary for both you and the two kids while you "fly it up."

Priorities guy, your first should be to your wife and your kids. Flying second. If not in your case dead last.

:o
 
Maximillian_Jenius said:
I simply don't understand how as a man you could sit back and allow your wife to work, and be the sole provider on a poverty level salary for both you and the two kids while you "fly it up."

Priorities guy, your first should be to your wife and your kids. Flying second. If not in your case dead last.
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Ok. First off I was working. I was the sole provider until I got laid off. I was a commercial truck driver. I would go back into that industry if it where anygood. I got tired of only making $1200 to $1500 a month if I was lucky being home only 2 to 3 days a month. Many of my friends out there on the road are losing everything they have.

Second. This is not just a dream. It is a career choice. I want a carrier that is going to provide for my family for years to come. I don't think the aviation world is going away anytime soon.

Third. I include my wife in every decision we make. I have been talking with her about this for a while. She is willing to work while I train because she knows that in the long run that she will be able to stop working as my career takes off. Evan if it takes a while.

And finally. I have decided to take everyones advice. I am going to go get a job that All the money I make from it will go directly to saving money for school. I will put off school until I know we have enough money saved up to pay at least half of the schooling. Evan if i have to work at jack in the box.

I thank all of you for your advice. I am looking into the other schools mentioned in this site. I do not believe the Air Safety Flight Academy is the best choice for my money now, Even if it is closer to home and cheaper.
 
DrDigitized2 said:
Second. This is not just a dream. It is a carrier choice. I want a carrier that is going to MAYBE provide for my family for years to come. I don't think the aviation world is going away anytime soon.

Third. I include my wife in every decision we make. I have been talking with her about this for a while. She is willing to work while I train because she knows that in the long run that MAYBE she will be able to stop working as my carrier takes off. Evan if it takes a while.
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Fixed it for you.
In this career you never know. I know guys who have been working for over 10 years and have never seen more then 30K a year, and I know some guys that are at a major making 100K+ only after a few years. You should be honest with your wife about this career.

Also have you look into ATC as a career?
 
DrDigitized2 said:
Ok. First off I was working. I was the sole provider until I got laid off. I was a commercial truck driver. I would go back into that industry if it where anygood. I got tired of only making $1200 to $1500 a month if I was lucky being home only 2 to 3 days a month. Many of my friends out there on the road are losing everything they have.

Second. This is not just a dream. It is a career choice. I want a carrier that is going to provide for my family for years to come. I don't think the aviation world is going away anytime soon.

Third. I include my wife in every decision we make. I have been talking with her about this for a while. She is willing to work while I train because she knows that in the long run that she will be able to stop working as my career takes off. Evan if it takes a while.

And finally. I have decided to take everyones advice. I am going to go get a job that All the money I make from it will go directly to saving money for school. I will put off school until I know we have enough money saved up to pay at least half of the schooling. Evan if i have to work at jack in the box.

I thank all of you for your advice. I am looking into the other schools mentioned in this site. I do not believe the Air Safety Flight Academy is the best choice for my money now, Even if it is closer to home and cheaper.
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Well, first off I hope my post didn't come off as being dickish. Furthermore I had hoped that as both a man and a father you did include your partner in every decision.

Though simply in my opinion with four mouths to feed it should be less about you and your wants needs and more so about the four of you, but definitely the two children. If it were just you and your wife, and no kids and she worked while you went to say law school, I can see that. But, flight school, with kids and one job only making $23k. No mas. As such from your last post, it seems you've learned flying FT right now probably isn't the best idea for all considered.

Secondly, you should probably stick around here longer. Because when you do finally get to that regional you'll probably again be away from home as much; and still be bringing home the same amount of money that you made as a trucker. I'm not saying give up your dream, but just don't think that you will go from regional FO to big time baller major F/O in 2-4 years. It's been said many times here and at other boards that a career at a regional with low pay might well be the reality for many.

Definitely look into the school's link that I posted, I've only ever heard good things about US Flight Academy. Their flying club also seems to hve very decent rates. I'd easily say that is a far better choice in terms of schools that Flight Safety.

Much success to you in life, family and education.

And, who's this Evan guy? :o :D
 
DrDigitized2 said:
And finally. I have decided to take everyones advice. I am going to go get a job that All the money I make from it will go directly to saving money for school. I will put off school until I know we have enough money saved up to pay at least half of the schooling. Evan if i have to work at jack in the box.
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Excellent decision!

All too often people come here asking for advice hoping to just hear affirmation - and when they don't they argue. Good on you for take the time to listen.
 
Maximillian Jenius you where not being Dickish. I ask you all for your opinion and you all gave me what I asked for. I may have been hoping for you guys to say, Go for it, You can do anything you want, Or I had a friend do it with success. But you gave me what I needed to hear. I am still planing on becoming a pilot one day, But now I am looking at it realistically. It will take time, effort, and heart to make this happen. But with my family supporting me and the decisions we make I am sure in time it will come to be.:D
 
DrDigitized2 said:
Maximillian Jenius you where not being Dickish. I ask you all for your opinion and you all gave me what I asked for. I may have been hoping for you guys to say, Go for it, You can do anything you want, Or I had a friend do it with success. But you gave me what I needed to hear. I am still planing on becoming a pilot one day, But now I am looking at it realistically. It will take time, effort, and heart to make this happen. But with my family supporting me and the decisions we make I am sure in time it will come to be.:D
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Fortunately for you though at age 24 you have time. With the new 1500 rule and tons of experienced people on the street there's no need to rush to get that job.

You can save and or train as you go and come out the other side not only a better pilot, but one with no six figure debt!

All pluses, if you ask me!

:)
 
DrDigitized2 said:
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Follow the advice of the members above. Save up cash, and then hit it hard. No reason to rush right now, the career choices are awful. Also you'll just end up having to move to make 1,200-1,500 a month and no perdiem at some companies for 3 or so years in between the furloughs.

The job is great.
The industry is CRAP.
 
DrDigitized2 said:
I was a commercial truck driver. I would go back into that industry if it where anygood. I got tired of only making $1200 to $1500 a month if I was lucky being home only 2 to 3 days a month. Many of my friends out there on the road are losing everything they have.
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Wait a minute, this can't be true.

We just had a thread on here within the last year where some people were singing the high praises of commercial truck driving, and some pilots were leaving aviation to go do it.

:)
http://forums.jetcareers.com/changing-careers/94733-driving-planes-driving-trucks.html
 
Trust me. The trucking industry is moving so slow. They try to hide it but there is just not enough freight. Some times you could get a nice load and then wait 4 days. Its so bad right now that they don't even want you to idle your truck at night when its 10 degrees out side. When I was hired by both of the companies I worked for they told me that I would be making about 40k a year. Well good luck with that. I would go out 3 to 4 weeks at a time and not bring home more than when I was working at walmart. Trucking is fun but it is to slow right now. Plus you have to pay extra for food. You have to pay for your showers. And you have to deal with the stress of business.

If you think its a good time to get into the trucking industry then look at this.

http://ozarksfirst.com/content/fulltext/?cid=219432

This was the first Trucking Company I worked for. They had over 200 ppl in there offices and about 1400 ppl driving trucks all over the country. Without warning they just closed there doors and left drivers stranded across the country. Most of the drivers did not find out until they tried to fill up there trucks. This happened 3 days before Christmas.

So if you think that the trucking world is where to go to make money you had better make sure that you have a dedicated route with the company. And they are hard to come by.
 
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December 24, 2009
Hundreds of truckers nationwide are stranded and trying to get home before Christmas after their company shut down operations with little notice.
Arrow Trucking, based in Tulsa, suspended operations and laid off employees. Arrow is among the largest trucking companies in the nation.
About 900 truckers were left stranded across the country. Many drivers learned that the company had folded only after filling up their rigs and discovering the company's fuel credit cards would not work.
The company website has been shutdown and callers to Arrow's Tulsa office received a message telling drivers to take their trucks to the nearest freightliner shop. The message also informed drivers that Daimler Financial Services--which owns the company's Freightliner trucks would arrange for a bus ticket home.
A Daimler spokesperson says the company is offering stranded drivers a bus ticket home or $200 in cash.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OODIA) says the trucking community has come to the aid of those drivers stranded.
Meanwhile, Arrow customers are scrambling to pick up loads of freight that has been left stranded. Creditors are also ready to claim trucks and trailers that aren't paid off.
If you are a stranded driver and need assistance, you can call OOIDA at 800-444-5791 and press 1 and leave your name and phone number where you can be reached.



Just one of the many stories you can find on the internet.
 
I think it would be very wise of you to make sure you read the perspectives via menu on the first page of the site http://jetcareers.com. there are guys whose perspectives started over 10 years ago (like doug's) and guys who've been in the industry for 2-5 years...it took doug 10 years just to get decent seniority so he could get the days off or vacations off that he bids and that depends on what base you're at, retirements, movement up, fleet changes etc....the industry is very up and down and honestly, it can take a really long time to get stabilized in this career...and that's with a *good* economy and movement upward in the industry which just isn't happening quite yet.
 
Well, I am not worried about how long it will take to get to where I want to be. I know that with anything worth having in this world there are sacerfices to be made. I do not expect to go to school and get into the Majors right away. I know that I will have to work hard and give alot of time and effort just to build 1500 hours. I understand that from there I might have to spend many years at a regonal carrier to earn enough time to get into the national carriers. But I have made up my mind. I will become a pilot one day. Even if it takes a few years of saving just to get my dream started.
 
Do you have a 4 year degree?

I'm surprised nobody has mentioned this, but if you don't have a 4 year degree, finding an airline job could prove to be difficult. Major carriers require them, and I think you'd be hard pressed to get hired even by a regional without one.

Perhaps take some online classes on the side as well? :)

Good luck!
 
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