Expert: Howard Lorenz - 10/30/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hello Mr. Howard Lorenz, I want to go in the air force as an officer to become a pilot but due to my horrible past, I have a criminal record that making it impossible to go in as an officer.  I was told that I can try to go in as enlisted and try to go into officer school from there.  My question is if that is possible, how long will it take me to bcome an officer if I go in as enlisted? Because Im 25 and age limit for flight training is 27-28 if I'm correct.  Any tips or advice for me? I'll really appreciate it.

ANSWER: Russell,

Depending on what your criminal past is will affect what your abilities to even enter the Air Force. If in fact you can enter the Air Force, you still have a shot at becoming a pilot, but that rests on your sholders. You will have to get your pilots license, which can be done thru the aero club at a reduced price. You will not be able to engage in "extra study " untill you have reached completion of your upgrade training for the careerfield you end up in. Because you have a criminal past, you will require a morals waiver and a credit check. The credit check will be the first thing completed, then the morals waiver. If you are invited to the Air Force, you will be placed in a General aptitude area depending on your ASVAB scores. More than likely if the scores permit you will go into a maintenance career field.

The chances of you getting into pilot training are slim , but not impossible. Like I said, its on your shoulders. What you do in BMT as far as training and your ability to stand above your peers will get you farther in the long run. Those who excell in the job that they were placed in will get the opprotunity to start taking other study earlier than those who just do the job.

Youy will have to act now and roll with the punches as they are presented to you. If you get in , let your supervisors know what you are planning, be the best at your job, you may have the ability to reach your goal. Now if you do not get the flight school, you still can get your pilots license, then apply to the reserves after your enlsitment is completed. Best bet is to check with both sectors and get the knowledge first hand. Things change with time as the need for pilots change. If a service needs pilots, the rules will be adjusted to meet the need.

HW

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

QUESTION: Thank you for the advice. It was really helpful.  I do have me bachelors degree and what if I plan on getting my private pilot license before I go in?  Will that help at all? Or I should just enlist now!?

Answer
Russell,
Looking into a flight program is a good idea, check into length. some flight programs can be tailored to suit. The fact is if you have a pilots license,it could bolster you getting into an airforce pilots program sooner. The closer you get to a degree in Aeronautical Science the better. I know that once you are active duty there are programs that you can get in. Check into them, and then weigh what needs to be done and then map your course.

HW