After an exciting 22 year Air Force career I was lucky enough to
land a job straight away as a contractor doing my Air Force job
as a civilian. I went from being a MC-130H Flight Engineer to
being qualified in every C-130 variant AFSOC owned save the
AC-130U and the 130J. I was doing what I loved to do and not
getting sent to places where they would shoot at us!
After 5 years, with some management changes and sequestration
looming, I left to pursue my own fate as a small business
owner. I bought into a wheel repair business and ran it
successfully for 9 month. The work was OK and we were in the
“black” on month 1 but I did not see it moving forward as fast
as I would have liked. A guy from Las Vegas gave me a great
offer on my equipment and sold it all to him. I walked away
none the richer but none the poorer either.
The road called so I answered. I attended truck driving school
right up the road in Milton Florida and was hired on by Con-Way
Truckload out of Joplin Missouri. My lovely bride and I thought
we would make a go out of being “Team Drivers”. Con-Way is a
great company to work for as a “new” driver but the life style
was just something we could not adapt too. Don't get me wrong,
the money is not bad and being away from home for long periods
is something I was well used too but those trips away were
followed by plenty of time back at the ranch. Truck driving
doesn’t really allow that.
The newest chapter brings me to a short Hiatus. I’m finishing
up my Commercial Pilot Training and will even do a Tail Wheel
transition program. I hope to be flying advertising banners
next spring or sooner. It might be a part time gig but you
never know. I’ve kicked around the idea of getting my Real
Estate License or even selling cars. Becoming a Flight
Instructor is well within the realm of possibilities and a Multi
Engine rating will happen soon!
I’ve not actively searched for employment. Yes, it looks like I
lack direction at this point, I’m just not sure what I want to
do when I grow up. Whatever it is, it will be something I love!
Meanwhile, we are getting ready for some big changes to our
household. Bill, my step dad, was killed on July 12th, 2014 by
a hit and run driver who is still at large. My Mom, who has
lived down state since 1972 has accepted our offer to come live
with us. My wife and I are VERY excited about this. Mom is
very independent but most of her friends have moved on in one
way or another and we are blessed to have her with us here. We
are truly blessed to be able to take the time to help her with
the transition.
2015? Who knows! Flying and fixing airplanes is in my blood
but I’ve done well with sales too. You could say it is in the
Lord’s hands but we all know he helps those who help
themselves! We give thanks everyday to be given these
opportunities!