Look at your options
Hi Chris
My advice would be look at your options carefully. Aviation as most would agree is enjoyable and can be a great job but the hours are long and the money can be awful depending at what area you are in. The more "skills" you have, the better chance you have of success.
I personally would say do a degree first as a back up, it does not have to be anything fancy but it does help in the long run. Although, dont be fooled, it wont help with the first job(s) as you almost always will start at the bottom. However, it can help you move up the ladder if that is what you want.
I am not saying that is the only way to go, I know a lot of mates who never did my route and are still as successful but many of my past colleagues and I all agreed that the more qualifications, the easier your progression can be.
In my first job I earnt £3,000 more that my colleagues who started on the same date due to my so called qualifications but at the same time I had no more knowledge than they did! The payrise was for the fact I had a degree. Companies especially the airlines (where in my experience the rewards are bigger at present) are into qualifications now and with the more general skills you come with the more use you are to them in different areas of the business. I am not saying I agree with the principle it is however for many companies a part of their selection process and thus a reality.
Plus, another piece of advice is keep your options open. When I first started out (only been in the industry 6 years), I also was set on being a
air traffic controller. However, although making it through the selection process, I was no longer sure if the lifestyle element of the job was for me. I walked away and to be honest have never looked back.
I ended up working for an airline within the commercial department, again after 2 years decided I did not like the type of work and moved into operations with an airline. Since then, I have gone from strength to strength doing a job I enjoy and importantly for me getting a decent lifestyle and package as part of the deal. I get to travel abroad and
get to meet and socialise with like minded people.
Overall, just keep you options open and do your research. In the early days have fun and look at getting as much generalised experience as you can.
good luck
Wheety