Becoming a Virtual Thunderbird

[Lawndart]

We are a diverse group, primarily consisting of aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike, sharing a multifaceted skill set within flying and technology. It takes more than just superb flying ability to accomplish the Virtual Thunderbird mission; it takes outstanding support, unparalleled training, attention to detail and professionalism. We are always looking for dedicated and motivated team players. We hope you'll give us the opportunity to meet you, and answer any questions you may have.

Tryout Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age to apply.
• Must be 20 years or older to be selected.
• Must reside in North America.
• Must not actively be part of any other virtual formation team to be selected.
• Must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
• Must be able to regularly make practice hours (e.g. 22:00-24:00 US Eastern Time).
• Must meet the following specs:
  
  • Recommended gaming desktop requirements
  • High speed internet
  • HOTAS flight controls
  • VR headset or TrackIR
  • Quality headset with mic
• Current sim & software used by the Virtual Thunderbirds:
  • Digital Combat Simulator
  • DCS: Nevada Test and Training Range
  • DCS: F-16C Viper
  • TeamSpeak3
  • Discord

Tryout Procedures:

• PHASE I (INTRO FLIGHT). After submitting the application questionnaire we'll contact you for a for a meet and greet. This is important as it helps us get acquainted and break the ice. We'll also make sure your controls and sim are configured properly. Once airborne applicants are screened for basic formation flying skills and airmanship during the intro flight. Limited instruction & critique may be given during the intro sortie by current members of the Virtual Thunderbirds.
• PHASE II. Applicants are screened for their aptitude to learn parts of the flying syllabus in a reasonable amount of time, however, the most important part of this phase is for us to get to know you better and determine if you are a good fit for the team. Some of the things we look for in this regard include having a good attitude, dedication, maturity, discipline and commitment level needed to be part of the team.
• SEMI-FINALISTS. Based on phase I & II we handpick a few selectees as our Semi-Finalists, which whom we'll share additional information, downloads, SOPs and technique during remaining training sorties. This gives each individual semi-finalist a chance to further refine their formation flying skills using our guidance and resources before a final selection is made by the current members of the Virtual Thunderbirds. Once again, it's the right person for the team and not just the pilot with the right stuff we're ultimately looking for.

Note: The process and timeline to earn a spot with the Virtual Thunderbirds will vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on both the individual and the needs of the team. It could take as little as a couple of months, or it may take upwards of a year. At any time you or we might see fit to discontinue the candidacy for flying or personality reasons. Those who make the team are expected to continue a high level of participation long term. While circumstances may change, please consider whether this fits into your plans over the next few years regarding relationships, education, jobs, military service etc. when applying.

Note: Regardless of which positions currently may show as "open" on the roster, each new pilot will be assigned the position best suited for the team when he or she is selected, including supporting roles.

Note: Updating to the latest version of DCS may not always be in the best interest of the team. If you, like many of us, enjoy flying on other servers, we strongly encourage you be able to maintain a dual DCS install in order to retain the ability to participate in sorties with us on slightly older (and vetted) versions of the simulator. Most of us also maintain this “VTB only” install, using only team approved mods and keep a completely separate install to fly DCS elsewhere. Ask for guidance how to achieve this as needed.

TO APPLY please complete the VTB APPLICATION QUESTIONNAIRE and email it to recruiting@virtualthunderbirds.com

Due to the steep learning curve, please have TeamSpeak downloaded, review our FAQs, and familiarize yourself with the process before submitting your application.

On behalf of the entire Virtual Thunderbird squad, best wishes and we look forward to your application.