Afrotc Pilot slot. Aerospace vs Mechanical Engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the steps a high school senior is considering to secure a pilot slot in the Air Force, particularly in relation to choosing between aerospace and mechanical engineering as a major. It explores the requirements for flight hours and the importance of extracurricular activities and leadership roles in the selection process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong desire to become an Air Force pilot and inquires about the necessary steps and the impact of choosing between aerospace and mechanical engineering.
  • Another participant shares their experience with the Navy, stating that the specific content of the engineering degree was not important, but having an engineering degree was crucial for selection.
  • A participant questions whether flight hours are required before selection for a pilot slot.
  • A participant with military experience suggests that physical fitness and leadership roles in extracurricular activities are important for securing a desired position.
  • One participant asserts that flight hours are not necessary, as training is provided, but acknowledges that having flight hours could be beneficial.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on whether flight hours are necessary prior to selection, with differing opinions on their importance. Additionally, the discussion reflects varying perspectives on the relevance of specific engineering majors in securing a pilot slot.

Contextual Notes

Participants express differing views on the necessity of flight hours and the significance of the engineering major, indicating a lack of definitive guidance on these topics.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students interested in pursuing a career as a pilot in the military, particularly those considering engineering majors and ROTC programs.

elu22
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I am a female seniour in high school and i really really want to become and Air force pilot. I'm doing rotc and i was wondering what steps i could take when i start college to secure a pilot slot. Would i need flight hours and how could I get them?

Also, I cannot decide between aerospace or mechanical engineering. Is one major more likely to get me a slot than the other.
 
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I considered joining the US Navy to be a pilot when young. During the discussion phase I discovered they cared nothing for the content of my degree, they only wanted someone who had an engineering degree. This was their litmus test for intelligence and analytical thought (and possible 3-dimensional thinking) that they considered of premium value in order to fly high performance aircraft. Oh, and they frothed at the mouth over my 20-15 vision.

I declined.
 
Thank you. Did you have to get flight hours before they choose you?
 
I moonlight as an officer in the Guard. To have first dibs on your choice of MOS (or AFSC), make sure train to run really fast and do lots of push-ups and situps. Ensure that you participate in extracurricular activities (sports is a good one) and serve in a leadership role (such as team captain). Being an officer is more than getting A's.
 
No, no flight hours necessary. They teach you that stuff. Doesn't hurt to have it, though.
 

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