The Alternate Route Blog

Air Force Pilot: Training Timeline


In this video, I break down the timeline from getting sworn into the Air Force until returning from pilot training and completing your Prog Tour. This timeline was specific to me back in the day, but I share the differences that have occurred since then. This should help give you a better idea of what the first 3 years of your career in the Air Force will look like. Did you Love the shirt I was wearing? Click the link below and search MOOSE DRIVER to purchase your very own tee-shirt!! C-17 Moose Driver Tee-Shirt https://www.fanatics.ncw6.net/JrJYjE

New Course - 6 Steps to Becoming a Military Pilot

UDEMY Course: 6 Steps to Becoming a Military Pilot



In this class, you will learn what it takes to get a pilot slot in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve.  What many people don't know is that there is another component to the Air Force besides Active Duty.  In fact, the Guard/ Reserve is the best-kept secret in aviation, because nobody knows that you get to pick the location and the aircraft you want to fly even before signing on the dotted line.

Every year pilot slots are awarded to applicants throughout the US to fly everything from transport to fighter aircraft.  If you have ever wanted to serve your country by becoming a pilot in the Air Force, this is the course for you.

You will learn the 6 easy steps to becoming a military pilot.  I will go over the basic requirements for application and detail each step in a thorough lecture-style course.

Learn about the different ways to become a military pilot (Active Duty, Air National Guard, or Air Force Reserve).

No experience or knowledge of the military or aviation is required to take this course.  However, for those of you who are interesting in becoming a pilot in the military and want to learn more about the process of getting hired into a coveted pilot slot, this is the ultimate class for you!

Click on the link below to access the course. 

For a limited time only use the following code for a special promotional discount!

Promotional Code: 1B144EF61578D3CA94FC

UDEMY Course: 6 Steps to Becoming a Military Pilot

Undergraduate Pilot Training - must haves!

During Undergraduate Pilot Training, there are a few things you should acquire that will make your life easier in an otherwise very difficult environment.  I have listed a few of the items I recommend new student pilots acquire prior to attending UPT.  

FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard



Deluxe Pen Loop

Suggested Reading Material!!

I am often asked if I have any recommendations for books or movies that would help gain a clearer picture of what it's like to be a military pilot.  When I started my journey of becoming a fighter pilot, there were two sources that I found beneficial to understanding the past and present of military aviation.  Focusing on the fighter community, I would highly suggest everyone read, Fighter Pilot: The Memoirs of Legendary ACE Robin Olds.   


This book is instrumental in understanding the foundation of the modern-day fighter pilot.  Robin Olds is a triple ace, who achieved a combined total of 16 victories in WWII and the Vietnam War. 


Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag


This short film depicts an F-15C fighter pilot who is participating in his very first Red Flag.  Red Flag is an international training exercise for air forces of allied countries, many of the world's best pilots meet for the most challenging flying of their career.  Red Flag is the final training for pilots and their aircrew before being sent into actual combat.   


My aviation story and how I became a military pilot!


This is the first video I posted on my YouTube channel, describing my aviation story from the beginning.  From college football player to NFL prospect, Arena Football Champion, and pilot, this is my journey to becoming a pilot and ultimately achieving my dream of flying for a major airline!