Career Change - Considering Helicopter Pilot
I originally posted in the wrong section, I apologize for the repeat.
I'm mid 30s, family, with 12 years of experience in software sales. After bouncing around from job to job, I've decided that I can no longer tolerate the corporate sales world. I'm looking for a career change.
Helicopter pilot is one of the professions I'm considering. It was recommended by a couple of friends. I visited a local school to see for myself and paid for a quick demonstration /orientation. We spent about 30 minutes in the air and I was hooked. I even got to take the controls for short periods.
My plan would be to enter a program and fly every day to achieve my Private and Commercial License as quickly as possible. From here I would start working as an instructor to begin earning money, and gaining hours, so that I can build experience for other jobs.
So, I'm looking for some advice from the people that have gone through this. What are some the pitfalls and holes is this plan? Where might I be disappointed?
A couple of things.....
I'm taking a huge pay cut, but hoping I can make a good living 3-4 years down the road. I'm not interested in flying for an airline, but more interested in flyin jobs for law enforcement, news stations, transportation, rescue, etc.
My location is the San Francisco Bay Area.
Can anyone share their experiences? Or, please tell me if I’m way off here.