If anyone could post here, or in private what I can expect from well known companies, or in general at different stages of a career it would be appreciated so I can compare a career as a pilot to other things I have an interest in as well.
One of the reasons we generally do not permit threads of this nature is that one could write a multi volume book and still not answer your questions or predict where you may end up. Only
you can determine your own destiny.
People become pilots for many reasons - they want to instruct, want to remain in GA, train for airline entry or want to enter one of the many specialised areas such as aerial agriculture, corporate, rotary wing, regulatory (CASA) etc.
You can enter the airline industry via the traditional GA route, or via an airline cadetship. Either way, you probably need to budget $70,000 to $150,000 and around two years committed, intensive training. Don't plan on a loan which you may not be able to pay!
If you wish to become an airline pilot - and you are fortunate enough to achieve airlines employment - the pay varies from approximately $80K pa as an FO to around $200K pa as a captain, depending on airline and aircraft type. It may take some years to gain the experience for airline entry, or it may not, and it may take some years for promotion to captain, or it may not.
General aviation and instructing wages vary from around $50K to maybe $80K or more, although initial wages may be far, far less. Specialist areas may pay more.
If you don't have the passion for flying and your sole intention is to make a big salary, a secure career and a life of luxury, you are at the wrong forum. I suggest you go research an economics degree and the banking, finance or insurance industries.
There is no one or simple answer to your questions; certainly your career path and future income would be unique to
you, depending upon your skills, training and the "breaks" you get along the way.
I suggest you go visit a reputable flying school and talk to the CFI.
