The best advice I ever got was to try and stay in the industry. Not only will you benefit from the advice of people who know properly what is going on ( Trainers etc) however your work experience is all good background knowledge. Remember that being in the flightdeck is only a small part of a huge team dedicated to one aim at the end of the day, and a knowledge of others roles can never do any harm.
I finished my Frozen ATPL, and returned to my previous occupation as an Aircraft despatcher whilst doing the FI rating part time around my shifts. Then, following that, I began instructing two days or so per week on my rostered days off.
The opportunity arose for me to work with a company who I had wanted to work for for a long time, so I am now cabin crew for that outfit in question, (still instructing also) and could if things work out be on the final approach to my first flightdeck job.
The people I have met, and the knowledge I have gained have been invaluable to my progression, and I will always be glad that I have done the things that I have because I have loved every minute of it. If there is a will, there is a way.... just try and do something that will benefit you, and that you will enjoy at the same time.
Good luck,
CHEERS
NORDIC
