I'm 26, single, no kids and in the process of applying to OCS to become a pilot. I'm already familiar with the aviation community, mostly from the enlisted side. Based on my observations, particularly of female pilots/NFOs, it seems they either never have kids or once they have a few, they work on finishing up their commitment and then getting out. I'd like a family someday, but my top priority for the next 5-6 years is my military career and maybe if I get a shore tour, then worry about starting a family. Who knows. Most of the male pilots I know are married with kids and their wives are either STAHM or have flexible careers that support their spouse's constant deploying. The female Os I know are either divorced with no kids, or still establishing themselves in their pipelines with no plans for kids anytime soon.
I was wondering if anyone had any advice or observations on female aviators being able to successfully (or unsuccessfully) balance work and family (to a reasonable extent) or if "being out of commission" for a year created career setbacks?
I was wondering if anyone had any advice or observations on female aviators being able to successfully (or unsuccessfully) balance work and family (to a reasonable extent) or if "being out of commission" for a year created career setbacks?