Pilot

Today we Skyped with a pilot in class. He’s name is Paul Francisco. He taught us about his job at American Airlines.  He called us from his home in Chicago, but has been in many places around the world.

In order to be a pilot, you need a Bachelor’s Degree in any subject.  You also need flight ratings, a commercial pilot’s license, and you need to be 23 years old to be hired by an airline.  Paul says you have to be good at science and math.  Today, he still learns about new models and technology.  He is currently learning how to use an iPad in the cockpit.

Paul has been flying since he was 17 years old.  He knew he wanted to be a pilot when his mom took him on a plane when he was eight years old. 

Paul described the best things about his job.  He was able to start at the minimum age you can to fly and he’s doing something he enjoys.  He also likes the people he works with and he gets to fly a 300,000 lb. machine!

His least favorite part is the hours.   He has to deal with different time zones and wake up times.  He does not have a normal schedule.  He also doesn’t get to see his family as much when he’s gone a lot.

He has flown celebrities like Alex Trebec and the Chicago Bears. He flew them after the 1985-1986 Super Bowl. He even got to hold the trophy and talk to the coach!

Paul told us, “Stick to what you love and keep working.  You will come out on top!”

A pilot is an fabulous career!