Summary description:
This SkillBridge program is designed for transitioning service members interested in pursuing a civilian aviation career. Participants receive mentorship, FAA written exam preparation, aviation career guidance, and exposure to flight school operations while learning the pathway from entry-level pilot training through professional pilot employment. The program pairs participants with Flight Instructors and Instructor Candidates who will help participants prepare for FAA certificates and ratings, including Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, CFI, CFII, Multi-Engine, and Multi-Engine Instructor, depending on their goals and eligibility.
Job description:
Participants will complete a structured aviation career development program focused on ground-based learning, mentorship, and professional preparation. Activities include FAA written test preparation, certificate and rating preparation, shadowing Certified Flight Instructor Candidates, observing flight school operations, attending career workshops, and developing aviation resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview skills. The program is intended to help participants understand the civilian flight training environment and prepare for next steps toward pilot certification, instructor roles, and eventual commercial aviation opportunities. Employment and FAA certification are not guaranteed and depend on each participant meeting applicable FAA requirements.
The program is designed to provide mentorship, aviation career exposure, FAA written test preparation, and professional development support. Participants who continue through the civilian pilot pathway may become competitive for future flight instructor, commercial pilot, or airline pilot opportunities after meeting FAA certification and experience requirements.
Eligibility factors:
All Services
Applicants must be eligible transitioning service members approved for SkillBridge participation by their command. Participants should have or be able to obtain a valid FAA medical certificate, TSA screening, and Federal Tracking Number. Applicants must be willing to complete FAA written exam preparation milestones while participating in the program. Prior aviation experience is not required.
