Hey all, I'm currently a PPL with about 60 hours. I passed checkride at 42hrs, and have been working on IFR bookwork and otherwise just trying to keep my skills up while I save for the next rating.
Unfortunately, I was just laid off from my job at the local hospital, so I'm trying to pick the best way forward.
Option 1: Take on debt and finish flight training to CFI level while on unemployment.
I estimate I have about 4 months of unemployment insurance from the state. Between that and odd jobs from a friend, I think I can make ends meet. I estimate the remainder of my flight training will cost about $35,000.
Option 2: Relocate approximately 250 miles away.
About 250 miles away is a Garmin building, and they offer flight training incentives to staff. I could pick up a job with them doing electronics assembly or customer service. I estimate about a $5-7/hr pay reduction from what I was making (26/hr), I would need to sell my house and my fiance would need to relocate as well. She currently makes about $50K / year. Garmin offers a $3k reimbursement per rating, so that could help offset costs.
Option 3: Go to A&P school instead
There is a local community college that offers an A&P program that takes 2.5 years to complete and costs about $5,000 in tuition. Part of this is an apprenticeship program where I would be paid, albeit not very well. I imagine we would still lose our house in this scenario, but there does appear to be some job possibilities in the area, should I complete the program.
Thank you all for your help!