I want to join the Marines and be a Aircraft mechanic, but I want to attend college full time, I was wondering do mechanics have time to go to college full time? I've heard some MOS's don't have time because of being deployed and field training, I'm curious if this applies to Mechanics as well.

Uhm, no. You won't be able to go to college full time in almost any job in the Marine Corps (I'm pretty sure it's ALL jobs in the Marine Corps, but maybe there's something out there I don't know about. I doubt it). Well, unless you don't need sleep. Ever. I don't know who would have told you that. You can squeeze some classes in and go part time while not deployed.

Or you can enter the USMC Reserves and go to college full time (Reserves is one weekend per month, two weeks each Summer).

Thanks, that is most likely what I will do, just join the reserves and go active duty after college.

Listen to the Gunny – he speaks wisdom.

I will tell you that USMC Aviation Mechanic is a great job. My dad was one (jet mechanic), got out after four years and got right on with an airline. He recently retired and loved his job.

Do the college before you make the committment to the Marines.

I had thought about going to college first and not even join the Reserves just, go to school, then Active Duty but I'm just eager to join. After I get my degree I plan on going to OCS, and staying in the Marines intill I deicide to retire.

The Reserves is a good way to find out if you'll even like the military, that's why I'd recommend that while going to school. You might find out it's just not for you. And, well, it's easy to stay motivated for a weekend at a time vice a week, if you know what I mean (I was a Reservist at one time-- I also went to school full time while in the Reserves).

patoloco i am in the DEP program and my job might be fixed wing of and aircraft or another winged aircraft i was just wondering if you knew how i might be able to make when i come out. i will probably be working on military aircraft.

I can't really say what it's like now....especially with the airline industry and the way things are today....and in 4-6 years when you'd be thinking on getting out of the military (or considering re-enlistment).....it might be a whole new ball game, you know? I do know my dad and other Marines I know were able to leave the military and get jobs with the airlines pretty easily with the training and certifications they had (though, all the guys I know about were jet mechanics). As far as pay...who knows. Especially with the economy now, and a future when you'd be "re-entering" the economy when you decide to leave the USMC.

CDP88, here is my story, it might help you in your decision making: After I left the USAF as a SSG and jet engine mechanic (43270) I got a job as an aircraft inspector at Boeing in Seattle & Everett WA. I was also admitted to the UW and wanted to do both full time. I worked night shift and attended classes during daylight plus ROTC. But, the UW is not a twinky place to study, soon my GPA was dropping. I started buying 'NO DOZ' at the U kiosk. Next I developed chest pains, the Docs gave me valium which was fashionable then. I knew I couldn't go on like that. I quit my well paying job at Boeing. Things got better at the U and I made it through. Remember this: One can't serve two masters.

quote:

Remember this: One can't serve two masters

Sooo true!

I'm in the DEP program and I am waiting to leave for boot camp. I'm going in as an Aviation Mechanic and I was just wondering where my MOS school might be at? I have had a couple people tell me Florida, but I'm not sure.

USMC and USN Aviation Machinist Mate Courses are taught at Millington TN. Depending on the type model aircraft you will be assigned to support, will determine which school you will attend.

Focus on getting through boot camp successfully and then you will receive your orders for your 'A' school. You test results will generally be the factor that sends you to a specific type of school, that and the militaries needs at the time this decision is being made.