What will be my best move?
I'm currently in the USAF and have been working on C-17's for over 5 years now. The pay wouldn't be so bad if I were in another career field but as an aircraft mechanic, it is insulting. Especially with the amount of responsibility that a mechanic has. Every one elts in the AF gets paid the same for flipping burgers, working at the gym or sitting at a computer sending e-mails most of the day. Not to mention mechanics get deployed to deserts, work 12hr shifts and holidays, have a lot risk associated with their jobs and get paid the same as other fields. Mechanics are the lifeline of any aircraft or operation. They are the ones and the only ones who can ensure the aircraft is reliable and they have to usually make these determinations under a lot of stress. I’d like to think I’ve excelled at being an aircraft mech. As I have upgraded earlier than most and supervise, evaluate, and inspect the maintenance that takes place, and also get nothing more for an “IA” position. I feel extremely comfortable with the aircraft but am tired of getting nothing for the hard work and experience I give them. I had the option to get out mid 1999 but didn’t and really regret it because I had missed a $7000 bonus, by a month, that all the people re-enlisting are now getting. Should I get out? I heard that some are making close to 100K after awhile. I’ve had my A&P now for 1.5 years and have know Idea why I re-enlisted until 2002 but I need to get some info on what is out there for a good heavy A&P mechanic. What are the going rates? And what are the best companies to work for?