Expert: David A. NewMyer - 11/18/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hello. I have my BA, private, instrument, and commerical ratings. I am interested in building some time somewhere (banner towing, airship, traffic watch...etc). How do I do this?
Thank you,
Cory

ANSWER: Hi,

There is no one way to gain time building jobs...it is a "feet on the ground" kind of "job" to get a job (or more than one job).  Many times, your best contacts for time building jobs are right at the FBO or training location where you earned your ratings.  Your flight instructor or the head of the flight operation probably has these contacts.  

What I would do is make contact with the largest general aviation airports in the LA area, particularly the operators on those airports who specialize in the kind of flying that you indicate that you want to do.  I would think that you need to get to airports like Torrance Municipal, Van Nuys, Santa Monica, John Wayne, Bracket Field near Pomona and Long Beach.  Have your resume in hand and go make some visits.  Make sure that you are dressed in a professional manner.  While you are at each location, get names and contacts (business cards are preferred) and then follow up with each person that you meet.  

Persistence normally pays off.

I wish you the best of luck in this effort,

Dave NewMyer



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am a member at 8ball flying club at VNY, and I got my ratings at SMO at American Flyers. I will try to talk to them. What jobs could they recommend to me without a CFI? Do you have any contacts?

Thank you,
Cory

Answer
Hi,

I think that going out to VNY and checking around is an excellent idea.  You are familiar with that location and you will know where to look.

I am originally from the LA area (Covina) but I left long ago, so, sorry, I have no contacts.

I wish you the best of luck in your job search.  Hang in there and be persistent!

Dave NewMyer