Hello everyone,
I have yet to meet the industry's educational standards for "test pilot", and thus do not refer to myself as being one. I do, however, fly various modified aircraft to assure their continued compliance with the prevailing design standard. I do this in my capacity as a Transport Canada Design Approval Representative (DAR). It is facinating, a wealth of opportunities to learn, and assist aircraft operators in accomplishing their unique aviation activities. The result of my "test" flying (and recommending a finding of compliance of the mod) would be Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) or Limited (STC) approval of the mod. Simple LSTC's I am able to issue myself.
How'd I get here? 'Couldn't have planned it! I always hung around the local airstrip, and got involved however I could find a way to help (washed a lot of aircraft bellies). After earning a pilot's license, I assisted in maintenance, and obtaining Transport Canada approval for modifications and repairs. Through the generousity of many poeple, I gained experience in many different aircraft. I bought a plane, so I could fly as I wished (It has seemed to help in being taken seriously). I also flew with the owners of the newly modified aircraft to help them understand the changes. These were mostly STOL kit, float and ski installations, and LORAN/GPS installations. More and more projects came along which were more involved, as owners found the companies with which I worked. The skills of the people in those companies in making good aircraft design changes, made it easy for me to show the plane well. More projects resulted in more flying and more learning.
The approval application work gave me lots of opportunity to get to know Transport Canada staff, and how things are done. Seven years ago, I was invited to make application to be a DAR, and thereby work somewhat independantly on behald of Transport Canada. This privilage has presented many more opportunities to learn and fly. Some of these opportunities have shown how not to do things, but in general, it's great to be a participant. I research what I'm doing (this website helps), draw upon my experience, and follow the examples set by so many other pilots whom I have known.
My opinion of the important traits for a person starting out on this path, are those of an honest, professional attitude, with a real appreciation of the wisdom which can be found in all of the other aviation people around you. A bit of adventureousness, and a sense of when to not push (planes, people or weather) should keep you pointed on the right track. It seems to me that the pilots who have earned the positions of test pilot, before those of us who are still working at it, are really not interested in surrounding themselves with junior people, who pester, boast, and are otherwise too conspicuous.
If all else fails, think of it this way, before you do something in someone else's expensive aircraft, ask yourself: "If I owned this plane, would I still do this?" and "Would I be proud to explain to the owner, or his insurance company, why I did that?". The cost to your professional future is too high for a rush from a joyride! If you want the rush, hire an instructor and rent the plane!
I hope that helps those who are starting out. I was once where you are!
Cheers...