u/Ralph_O_nator

A bit of background about me: I work for a small city in on the West Coast. I’m maxed out at about $65k a year, for the next 10+ years (plus inflation). I’ve tried to advance but it gets political to get into management and a lot of these people have known each other since elementary school. I’ve tried to get other government work and there isn’t much in the way of federal work (outside of a prison) and I make more than state workers in similar positions. I tried to become a commercial pilot but was barred due to previously taking medication (have been off of it for years) and being a little to honest about my mental health. My job is „ok” but I do miss the adventure and I’ve sacrificed a bit for my family. We were single income for a while when my wife was getting work certificates allowing her to get a really great she loves. I’ve got 400 days of sea service on my TOSS. I’m a Coast Guard vet and have no problems going out to sea. I spent my four years underway on large cutters doing 3+ month stints underway. I miss the travel and the work. I’ve already submitted my application as an OS and done my background and medical. I’m waiting for my drug test and a NEO date. My plan is to go in as an OS and make AB within a year or so. Would it be worth it to sail for a few years to stash a good chunk of money away? Am I stupid for trying to work for MSC? I’m married with kids and my wife and kids are ok with me trying something that I think would Any constructive input would be appreciated.

Edit: forgot to mention I have the possibility of establishing residency in Nevada if I start with MSC and skipping the almost 10% in state income tax.

My wife can work from anywhere in the USA with an internet connection and I’m in talks to start a job that gives me months off at a time. We have two kids 7 and 10 and we’d like to spend a few years rv’ing around. I’m well aware of the maintenance that goes into owning and driving rv’s but I’m a little scared of what I read on here and else where. I’m looking for a class A or C or towable RV that is well built and won’t fall apart as soon as I pick it up. I don’t mind spending more but even recently built Airstreams didn’t feel as substantial as I remember them from the 1990’s or 2000’s when I was invited to my friend’s trips. I don’t have a truck yet but I’d plan on buying something appropriate for the trailer. I had a chance to borrow and spend a few nights in a 2015-ish Forest River Forester owned by my in-laws and it seemed like half the electronics didn’t work, there was a roof leak and there was some delamination coming from the siding. This was coming from an RV kept indoors and driven less than 10,000 miles in its life. I’m looking for some high quality RV’s that won’t be spending more at time at the service center. We don’t need a huge 5th wheel but bunks or a loft for the kids would be cool. Thank you!