Flying the F-35 in the Reserves | Bro Chat 19

In this episode of the Bro Chat, "Flash" "Bender" and "Rain" are joined by Kevin "Konan" Parkhurst to discuss flying the F-35 in the reserves, how to get hired by a reserve or guard unit and more. Let BogiDope guide you to becoming a pilot in the guard or reserves: launch your aviation career: https://bogidope.com/?bd=rain 🔸Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @afterburndefense   🔺 Grab our free newsletter for insights into aviation, defense, and geopolitics - https://bit.ly/AfterburnNewsletter 🔺 🇺🇸 Support Veterans in Their Time of Need or Apply for Help: http://gunsgarin.com/rain 🇺🇸 --- 🎙️ Sponsor Links🎙️ Scrub Your Info from Data Brokers & Protect Yourself | https://aura.com/afterburn 14-day free trial Launch your aviation career: https://bogidope.com/?bd=rain Recorded on Riverside.fm https://www.riverside.fm/?via=afterburn Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 04:52 Conan's Journey Through UPT 09:51 The Unsponsored Track Experience 14:53 Hiring Board Insights 19:40 Evaluating Candidates for Pilot Training 25:12 Evaluating Candidates: The Selection Process 29:38 The Importance of Presentation in Applications 34:15 Navigating the Interview Process 39:17 Making Connections: Tips for Aspiring Pilots 44:01 Understanding the Competitive Landscape 48:41 The Reality of the Hiring Board 51:20 Navigating the Hiring Process 55:04 Pro Tips for Aspiring Pilots 01:00:39 The Importance of Networking 01:06:11 Exploring Different Paths to Becoming a Pilot 01:11:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections ---- ✈️ Afterburn Podcast Links ✈️ Support The Afterburn Podcast for on Patreon and gain early access and AD Free episodes. Plus access to “There I was…” stories.   / theafterburnpodcast   Website – https://www.theafterburnpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rainwaters2... Facebook:   / afterburnpodcast   X - https://x.com/AfterburnPod Takeaways Conan's unique path to pilot training highlights the importance of perseverance. Networking is crucial in the military, especially for pilot candidates. The unsponsored track requires extra effort to secure a position after training. Hiring boards consider both objective scores and subjective impressions. Candidates should ensure their applications are professional and error-free. Personal connections can significantly influence hiring decisions. The experience of rushing units can be daunting but rewarding. Being proactive in reaching out to units can enhance opportunities. Understanding the hiring process can demystify the path to becoming a pilot. Every candidate's journey is unique, and resilience is key. Navigating military culture can be awkward but essential. Finding a balance in squadron dynamics is crucial. Being genuine is more important than fitting a stereotype. Networking plays a significant role in career advancement. Don't limit yourself to one path; explore all options. The hiring process is competitive and requires effort. Personal relationships can greatly influence hiring decisions. Active duty experience can provide valuable insights. Be proactive in seeking opportunities and connections. Persistence is key; make the last person tell you no.