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Need advice - accept pilot or stay aero engineer?

8 months go by, finally I get a job offer with Boeing, working on B-52 CERP right now, moving to Phantom Works projects soon. Fucking cubicle office job, but fun defense programs.
I was in a similar situation as you around 4 years ago also in aerospace, I definitely don't regret taking the SNA spot, feel free to PM me if you want specifics

It's hard to find guidance/mentors for this. I can't find anyone who went pilot and pivoted back to advanced engineering.
You really haven't look hard enough into test pilot school
 
So I already replied here, but I missed your comment about flying then pivoting back to advanced engineering. Yes, TPS is a way to get there, but also I think it's important for you to understand that Naval aviation is not a blue-collar job.
  • The fleet is doing more and more with rapid prototypes and other small projects.
  • Every combat platform is a complex system, and aircrew with technical acumen can make a big impact
  • There are other technical opportunities on shore tours: WTIs are doing technical work, there are DARPA fellowships, etc.
All of that is to say it's not an either-or. Yes flight school will be focused on practical knowledge, but after that you'll have a chance to get nerdy.
 
i can't tell everyone how appreciative I am to those who gave their 2 cents on this. Between here and a few other forum sites, I managed to get the experienced opinion of more ex-military pilots/pilot to engineers, than I thought was possible.
 
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