It was a bright, bitter morning in the high desert, and a late-winter gale scoured the Inyokern, California, airport as I taxied the Piper Lance to a cavernous heap of a 1940s-vintage hangar and shut down the engine. I paused to listen to the mournful wind as it jostled the little freighter, and then gathered my coat tightly about me and alighted to the deserted ramp. I was early, and the couriers wouldn’t arrive for another 20 minutes. I trudged toward the threadbare pilot lounge, savoring the pungent aroma of sagebrush and wondering if any of the usual lot of ancient birdmen were haunting the airport this chilly morning.
Taking Wing: Landing the Job, Part 1
Key Takeaways:
- **Networking is paramount:** Actively build and maintain a professional network from early in your career, as employee recommendations are highly valued by aviation employers and often crucial for getting noticed.
- **Thorough Preparation and Attention to Detail:** Research target companies to understand their specific hiring preferences, and meticulously ensure all application materials (resumes, cover letters, online forms) are flawless, well-organized, and error-free.
- **Persistence and Proactive Engagement:** Consistently update applications, maintain periodic contact with hiring departments, and "go the extra mile" by attending job fairs or making in-person connections to demonstrate strong interest and increase interview opportunities.
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