I am at a crossroads in my career and am wishing to switch from HVAC to aviation. I definitely wish to fly, but am looking for suggestions and other' experience on how they entered into aviation, be it maintenance, flying professionally, or other options I'm unaware of.

I will be signing up for flight school for a Private Pilot's License, and will be doing this through local, small flight schools.

BUT, I have Embry-Riddle very close to me. While my wife and I have money set aside, I do not wish to indebt myself in gathering the knowledge to land employement. This is a very expensive school and will require my attendance for a graduate program in order to enter flight school.

Is it best for me to continue pursuing flight school outside of the academic institute?

What is a fast track to earning money in this field? Is Avaiation Maintenance a good career to pursue?

Is commercial pilot the best path towards employement, or is becoming an instructor also a viable career path?

I will be dedicating my time and efforts to this pursuit and appreciate any feedback from you. Thanks!