Cleared for Take-off

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It took a lot of blood, sweat, and tears (plus all the work Patrick had to put in) but we made it; one college graduate.  Patrick's official degree is Bachelor of Science Professional Pilot Technology.  Along with the degree his holds his Private and Commercial Pilot license, Instrument rating, Flight Instructor, and Multi-engine (there's more, but these are the big ones).

In just under two weeks, he and his girlfriend - who will graduate with her Master's next weekend - will be headed for Arizona where he will pick up a flying job to finish out his "hours" (a minimum 1,500 hours of flight time are require to receive the Airline Transport Pilot License (aka "ATP") needed to fly for a "legacy airline" (think Delta, United, American, Luftansa, etc.).  1,000 hours are required to receive a Restricted ATP which can get you in the door of a regional airline.

Patrick has been accepted as a Cadet at West Jet - the largest regional airline in the world (so I've heard).  Regional airlines are the "feeders" into the larger legacy airlines.  Being accepted as a Cadet gives him a guaranteed "final interview" (he can skip all the customary preliminary interviews) and customized coaching for that interview (like getting the answers for the test before taking the test!).

The next month or so will be busy for Patrick as he moves across the country, finalizes his housing plans, and lands a flying job.  What an exciting time.


BS Professional Pilot Technology graduates plus their three primary instructors.

BS Professional Pilot Technology graduates

Patrick and one of his favorite instructors.

Patrick and his good friend and fellow pilot.

Patrick and his girlfriend.

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