I wanted to work for an airline but ended up working for an air cargo company. I was 25, made good money and had a company car but hated my job. So I quit and took a part-time job with a small airline called Muse Air . I made $5.35 an hour (this was 1986) but never loved a job more.

Southwest bought Muse Air and changed the name, and ultimately shut it down in 1987. American hired me and I had a great career there for 14 years. Left for an opportunity that would have been great had it worked out but sadly it didn't.

Delta hired me and I was there for a couple of years before being laid off in late 2004. Now I'm a fire/police/ems dispatcher but I miss the airline industry and know that sooner or later I'll find the right opportunity to go back.

Even if I never do, I can say my dream did come true. I worked with many great people and traveled places I never could have gone otherwise.