Hello Aviators,
I am a current ppl student looking at 2 year 141 programs to get my certs. I have 60% post 9/11 GI bill for 36 months, so cost is still a factor. Time is less of a factor but I do not want to do a lot of waiting around unnecessarily. I would like to hear your thoughts and experiences on a few programs especially if you are GI bill student. Also open to hearing about other programs especially if they are close to the north central WV/Pittsburgh area.
Baltimore County Community College: They are the closest VA approved program to me geographically to my knowledge. I have heard they work and play well with the VA due to the Navy presence around Baltimore. Have not seen much good or bad about them other than some scattered comments.
Central Oregon Community College (Leading Edge Aviation) : Heard good things from other Veterans. Bend OR looks beautiful. Have seen the cost of housing and living is high in Oregon.
Chandler Gilbert Community College (UND Mesa): Looks like the most prestigious and well respected program on this list for whatever that is worth. Weather seems to be the most ideal of any of the choices. Probably the most professional connections with airlines on this list. Big flight school with big maintenance department probably good to stay in the air. But it also comes with a big price tag.
University of Alaska Anchorage: Good part of this program is the potential for networking into the Alaska aviation ecosystem, especially in this market. Obvious weather and cost of living issues in Alaska. Have seen some comments about waiting a year to fly once enrolled. Seems like this program could open some cool opportunities if you can fly between the rain drops and get through it.
That is the gist of what I know about these schools. Let me know if I am off base about any of them and if so tell me your experience. I am open to any other program suggestions too. I will have PPL (Lord willing) and 36 months of GI bill when I enroll.