RTAG Member Spotlight Full Name: Paul Philip "PJ" Edmonds Jr. Rank: TSgt. Branch: United States Air Force Airframe (Civilian): AS-332, H-125, BH 407/206 Airline: SkyWest Airframe (Airline): Embraer 175 Position: First Officer Paul's enthusiasm for aviation developed at a young age, originating from when his father would take him for rides in a Cessna 172 at a local FBO. His passion advanced significantly when he had the opportunity to train and fly with the Civil Air Patrol at the age of 16. Paul proceeded to join the Air Force, serving as a Fire Fighter/EMT for seven years. He then departed, continuing his emergency service career as a Firefighter, EMT, and Police Officer in the civilian community; working on his Rotary ratings in his spare time. Once Paul had completed his CFI/CFII and built enough time, he began a 13-year aviation career as an EMS, News, Off-Shore, and DoD Contracted Pilot. While Paul was serving in Afghanistan, he discovered RTAG - Rotary to Airline Group and by proxy, the existence of Rotor Transition Programs and the impending pilot shortage. To his initial dismay, many of the RTP Programs were only targeting military aviators. Paul's persistence and determination paid off when SkyWest Airlines Pilot Recruitment accepted him as their first Civilian RTP Candidate! Paul completed his Fixed-Wing transition at FLT Academy and now operates the E-175 out of LGA. Paul is enjoying his foray into the airline community and has never looked back, he's excited to be part of the SkyWest team and hopes to garner enough experience and knowledge to one day operate for a major airline. Paul is an invaluable mentor with RTAG Nation, continually seeking to motivate and inspire those looking to make the transition. #RTAGnation #VeteransMakeUsBetter #armypilot #airlinepilot #aviationstories #aviationlovers https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw7YV1fAzaW/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=mr7mz7ybmlle
