Joining the Reserves

FL_CTI Senior Member South Florida

I am going to be graduating a CTI program in December. While I wait around to go to OKC, I was thinking of joing the Reserves (Air Force, Navy, or Coast Guard). Has anyone done this? Is it recommended? How will this affect me going to OKC? How will this affect me when I get to my facility? Is it really as flexible as the military claims it is (the whole one weekend a month, 2 weeks a year thing)? Any other important things I should know? Thank you for all your responses and input.

rostato Senior Member

They (military) own you if you go reserves. You cannot just leave the state for that long of a period of time.

towerflower Junior Member Palm Coast, FL

I had done what you are thinking about doing, but it was quite a few years ago and the atmosphere has changed. One of the first things to remember is that we are war and because of the war numerous reservse units have been called up. Nothing might happen right away but you could end in training at your facility and get the call up. I have heard of one such reservists (under the IWRs) who got fired/let go/during his probation period because of the reserves and getting called up. There have been many more in the FAA who have had no issues. Myself, I was given paperwork by the FAA that said my job with the FAA was more important than that of the military and was forced out of the reserves. At the time the FAA was still in the GS system and my unit said I was the lowest ranking GS they had seen forced out.

I really wouldn't use Flexible and Military in the same sentence.....Yes it is one weekend a month and 2 weeks out of the year but the military usely chooses which weekend and 2 week period. I worked with one person, years later, who found some obscure rule which allowed him to drill long distance through courses (that was with the Navy), but he would always be doing various courses on his breaks and never attended a drill.

I sure that others on this site can provide you with more current information.

noid Curtis E. Carr Jawja

There are quite a few people in the Reserves. The only problem you may have in regards to going to OKC is in the event you get activated just prior to or during your academy time. Other than that, there is nothing stopping you from joining. Once you get to your facility, there aren't any real issues.

ShockSniper Rookie

Go for it! I'm in the Air National Guard. They will pay you a bonus or 20K of student loan repayment. I highly recommend it. Once you are in the FAA you get 15 days of military leave that you can double dip with...meaning you'll get a paycheck from the FAA and the Guard. Most of the time Guard units will work with you and your civilian job. I'm part of the MI guard which is great. I also know the PA, and NC guard units are good. If you have any questions let me know. I have nothing bad to say about the Guard...they are very laid back.

P_to_the_R Ruler of the Movement Area funkytown

join the air national guard not the reserves. do not join the reserves for air traffic control.

FL_CTI Senior Member South Florida

Isn't the ANG a full-time committment to the military? I know it is administered by the states but is it also a part time thing?

ShockSniper Rookie

No....one weekend a month two weeks a year.

rostato Senior Member

Seriously do not do it right now. Wait untill you have gone through the acadamy. Too many things that can get you screwed. While you legally cannot get fired for getting "the call" it can cause you lots of pain.

DE_UND_CTI Trusted Member CHS- Charleston AFB/International

I'm doing exactly what you're thinking of doing. Message me if you want to discuss it.