Empty Cockpits Are a Big Problem for the U.S. Air Force

Put Warrant Officers in the cockpits and open flight training to those with 2 years of college or an AA degree.

From what I understand the biggest gripe from aviators leaving the Air Force is that they spend most of their time behind a desk instead of flying. Personally I think the Air Force should like into WO aviators like the Army and USMC. We're admittedly a smaller force when it comes to aviation, but we don't seem to have a problem retaining pilots.

Let's see...

1. Long and challenging career path of as much as six or seven years to qualify
2. High attrition rates in training, typically ending in loss of employment
3. Low starting pay in comparison to other "entry level" positions in similar industries/technologies
4. Possible salary decrease for continuing career in private sector
5. High risk environment

Long and short of it, when the "preferred" candidate is a highly fit, skilled engineer who is comfortable with personal and professional risk...there's a limited pool to begin with.

So here's what happens (every time): The military focuses on making tactical flying "cool" again via film and ads. A generation of high school grads decides they want to be the characters in the films, resulting in a mass of applicants. Maybe a tenth (or fewer) of those have the minimal prerequisites. By the time those chosen few get to the point they may actually be accepted into training...the numbers have changed, and the military decides it has too many future officers/aviators in the pipeline.

Here's another idea...Why not pre-screen candidates before they ever apply for a commissioning program? Why not evaluate interested maintainers, controllers and other enlisted personnel who already "get" the military and have some technical background to determine their potential. Set high standards and select a number for paid education/training to get a B.S. in systems or mechanical engineering on a "fast track" that eliminates non-essential electives. Maybe even an associates degree with a very specific track. Provide paid PPL and IFR certification to coincide and produce new officers who already have some time in service, a consistent technical education, and have proven themselves to be proficient in basic airmanship and navigation. Encourage continued professional development towards commercial ratings commensurate with active service experience.

I say why compete with the private sector and spend years "weeding out" the chaff, when there's got to be a plethora of NCOs and junior enlisted who are a "better bet" for long term and successful careers?