On the morning of Friday, Nov. 8, commercial pilot Seth Winegardner came to talk to students who intend to become pilots themselves in the future. This is part of the Counseling Department’s Career Spotlight series throughout November to showcase potential careers to students who are interested.
Mr. Winegardner is an Ohio native and began flying at age 17. He graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation. He is currently employed by Corporate Air LLC in West Mifflin. In addition to flying for them, he also manages the Pittsburgh Flight Training Center.
In high school, you must have a high ACT score and maintain a high GPA. It is also recommended that you many math and science classes, as well as AP and college prep classes. Mr. Winegardner also recommends shadowing a pilot and going to a college with a strong internship program and a large network.
There are many paths you can take to be a pilot; you can earn an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, fly for the military, or complete Part 61 to be certified as a pilot. You also have to fly between 1000-1500 hours and be at least 21 years old before you can be hired.
Pilots have to be disciplined, outgoing, assertive, optimistic, and have good hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, a mechanical mind, and a type A personality (usually), and be a quick thinker. One also cannot have a criminal record and must be able to pass an FBI background check.
There is a very optimistic outlook, and by 2032 there is an estimated need for 500,000 pilots, due to the fact that most pilots are older and will be around retirement age . They are also paid handsomely, with salaries starting around $40,000 and exceeding $250,000; also, many airlines offer $5,000+ signing bonuses to newly hired pilots.
However, there is a downside. Most younger pilots fly 18-24 days a month and up to 14 hours a day, and their schedule is inconsistent at best.
Mr. Winegardner’s presentation was very well developed and informative, not only giving students who are interested in being pilots the information they need, but keeping everyone attentive and interested.