alfaman, my remark re validating was tongue in cheek of course - like you I get p1ssed-off with people who seem to think the only folk who should apply for jobs in aviation are from the spotting fraternity. My No2 son had never shown any interest in aviation, but has now been valid at TC for nigh-on 20 years including being an OJTI,LCE etc - in fact one of his mentors described him as the best trainee they'd ever had. I've still never seen him read an aviation mag' or book.