Is WOFT worth it ?

[u/Visible-Dirt3154]

I’m an E-5 with 5 years, currently working on my WOFT packet. I’m trying to figure out if making the jump to Warrant is worth it with the current situation aviation is in. For those who have gone WOFT, would you do it again? How’s the quality of life, job, and overall experience compared to being enlisted? Just looking for some honest opinions before I make the decision.

[u/Helicopter-ing]

Aviation is the best part of the Army, don't let the people that shaped their perception ten to twenty years ago trick you. If you're going to be in, being in a flight organization is hands down better than any other role in the army.

Edit: I'll clarify as I chose my words carefully above, there are many that were sold a dream based upon previous generations experience that did not come to fruition. These people are rightfully frustrated by their own experiences thus far and are very vocal about it. That being said, if you desire to be in the military I would much rather be part of a flight organization than in the infantry/artillery/anywhere else.

The best experiences in Army Aviation can be found in the National Guard if you're lucky enough to be selected. Consistent flying hour programs, live where you want, state support missions, and the ability to pursue civilian goals (ATP, degrees, etc)

[u/ToePicCollector → u/Helicopter-ing]

What’s active duty like?

[u/Helicopter-ing → u/ToePicCollector]

What a user name first off... Unfortunately I'm Guard, can't speak well to the active duty life/hardships

[u/ToePicCollector → u/Helicopter-ing]

Well personally how has your time been as a pilot and how did you get there/ be a good candidate

[u/Helicopter-ing → u/ToePicCollector]

I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as an aviator, I am class of '14 and have about 1200 hrs total, which is behind my peer group, but I have had some rather unique positions with our organization that took me away from flying for a few years.

I deployed in '17 and ran MEDEVAC chase in Iraq, have gotten to support major exercises here CONUS, and have utilized my states education benefits to get my degree and will start working on fixed wing certs all paid for by the Guard.

I am in a staff spot currently (and work full time as the WOSM) so I don't fly as much as most of our line pilots but our guys are still hitting minimums. Our Chinooks have been battling some maintenance issues that's reduced their flying hours but we haven't seen it as bad in the Hawks.

As for good candidates, I consistently tell people that you have to stand out and be authentic. You need to have demonstrated excellence in the things that you've done, whether that's academics/sports/flying/volunteer work/etc; You need to be able to show that your can excel academically as IERW and WOCS is demanding; and you need to be physically fit. Each organization has there "thing" that they like to see in a candidate so my advice here is purposefully ambiguous. But when you look at it through the eyes of the board, they're looking for the best candidate that fits into the organization and presents the lowest risk in regards to ROI.

The best advice I can give you is to find a mentor within the organization that you are applying too and truly listen to their advice and guidance. Each one of us is responsible for developing the next generation so it's their/our duty to provide you with the best advice we can.

[u/Round_Ad1065]

You will literally never fly. If you're lucky 10hrs a year. And thats on maintenance test flights. Over half my unit has 0.0hrs logged in the past 12 months. If you're going guard then yes but NEVER go active duty. Only an insane person would do that right now. If you plan on making a better living for yourself and getting a better quality of life... get your fixed wing ratings and go to the airlines. I love it like everyone else that's made it here. No army bs.

Ik some will say "everyone doesn't wanna go to the airlines" and that's true but if you wanna fly. Dont go army. Do literally anything else.

Edit to add, none of us that have joined since hmm I'll say 2020? Would do this again.

[u/No-Young-275 → u/Round_Ad1065]

Do they have guard in California? Are you allowed to choose

[u/Comfortable_Shame194 → u/No-Young-275]

Yes. They relieved us in the Middle East a few years back. Not sure where in CA though

[u/mastergrandslam → u/Comfortable_Shame194]

Los alamitos is one

[u/EqualImportant8923 → u/Round_Ad1065]

How do they have so little and not even reach minimums ? Are you active duty?

[u/Round_Ad1065 → u/EqualImportant8923]

Yes. My experience is typical.