Hi Max,
I just got out after 18 years and am happy to discuss anything you'd like. Had it not been for a medical release (not bitter, sh*t just happens), I would have stayed longer.
Hi Sun Hat,
Thanks for your answer! If it's not too indiscreet, what was your position in the military?
For my part, I completed a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering one year ago and have been working in an office since then. I am considering the military because I'd like a more physical and action driven job which is pretty rare in my field. In fact, I am considering the military to become a pilot (not a jet pilot, I know that's very very hard), but I would also consider other options too.
I know the salaries are public and can be found online, but I have a few questions related to the general military life and social advantages. Being pretty frugal, I won't hide my desire to make the most of the benefits and I'd still plan to retire early (around 10 years).
1. I know everybody has to go through the basic officer training for 15 weeks + a professional specific training for your job. Are those trainings paid?
2. Once your training is completed, I think you get to go work on a base somewhere in Canada depending on your job. I'd like to know what a typical day looks like? (Do you eat, sleep on the base? Do you find a home near the base? Does the military pays some kind of per diem for working far away from your home?)
3. I know there's a pension plan in the military, though I don't know the exact details. I would assume that wyou would need to work for X number of years in the military in order to be eligible and I would also assume that the pension has an impact on the salaries (lower salaries while working but pension after retirement). Do you have the option of waiving the pension and getting more salary/contribution? What about the people leaving before getting the pension, do they get some kind of compensation?
4. Any other retirement contribution: RRSP match in DPSP for example?
5. General social advantages (insurances, dentist, access to doctor/psychologists, vacations, etc.)?
Thanks for your help!