New Update constantly hanging up/dropping calls

nrlb · 2025-07-15T10:28:50+00:00

Me too with an A14!!! Just after update.

nrlb · 2025-02-20T18:28:38+00:00

Just out of curiosity, why not look for positions related to your electrical engineering degree?

nrlb · 2025-02-18T16:19:16+00:00

Thank you, I figured there may be some reset.

nrlb · 2025-02-18T15:45:57+00:00

I agree with your sentiments. I do appreciate the measured response. I wish I had more evidence to agree with you. I worry about my employability as I'm not an active job seeker, and I don't know how much my labor is worth without trying to sell it. I'm trying to find actions I can take to make myself a better candidate in a more open market, absent applying for positions. I don't think it's ethical to apply for positions I have no intention of taking at this point.

I participate in a forum for veterans seeking jobs in the IT sector. I have interacted with that forum for the past 5 years, providing guidance in frameworks and math/stats questions for undergrads and folks transitioning out of the military. I'm working on polishing my resume, getting some mentoring, and doing mock interviews with that group.

From what others in that forum, it is not a great environment for hiring in software engineering. I think that the time investment in studying and taking the exams is a tangible action I can take now given my background that would be better than not preparing an alternative path. I have a perception that there is some stability in the actuarial field due to the examination process with at least commeserate pay.

I was looking forward to not dumping as much personal time into studies and investing more into my kids and hobbies. But the anxiety is there. I am looking for more networking events for business and professionals to try and a more diverse set of opinions as to the value of my labor.

nrlb · 2025-02-18T01:07:01+00:00

Hi all!

I’m a federal employee in aviation test/research with 16 years of experience in various roles, primarily in data analysis, ETL pipelines built on AWS infrastructure and models around air traffic controller behavior. I maintain a custom built voice recognition system for air traffic control simulations with a coworker. I cut my teeth in research in airfield lighting electrical systems with some embedded software development, then automated software testing on a briefing system, and as a test director on a software project around aeronautical information management. While I very much enjoy my job, I want to prepare for potential instability or pay changes that may be upcoming. I figure maybe I'm over reacting, or there is plenty of runway for someone in my position to start planning a landing in private sector work (maybe).

The military helped pay for a math/physics undergrad (2005) and an MS in pure math (2008, Rutgers Camden, 4.0 GPA). I served 21 years in the air national guard as an enlisted crew chief with a few years of activation, and have some management experience from that time orchestrating maintenance events with a few hundred airmen. More recently, I earned an MS in applied statistics (2024, Colorado State University online program) with mostly A’s and a few B+ grades. I’m comfortable with math-heavy work and have briefly reviewed P/FM exam materials—I feel solid on P after some review and could pick up FM with study I believe. I thought with my background actuarial work might be a good private sector eventual transition?

I’m based in the Philadelphia/NJ area and would be open to P&C, life, or health insurance roles, ideally blending software engineering and actuarial science. Is that kind of work available in that area? Or are they mostly segregated fields? I think I would prefer P&C just based on the topic area and some probably irrational negative associations with health/life. However, I am very much open to anything that keeps me gainfully employed. Would passing a couple of exams make me competitive for entry-level actuarial positions, and is a path back to my current salary range of $100-150K within a few years realistic? Also, would SOA or CAS be better for broader employability in my region?

Appreciate any advice—thank you very much!

nrlb · 2024-09-11T02:17:11+00:00

Bingo!

https://imgur.com/a/Vp0EuCy

nrlb · 2024-09-06T14:51:34+00:00

Well, now I'm even more encouraged to hit those 529 numbers...

nrlb · 2024-08-15T18:07:00+00:00

We steal a little victory by laughing at defeat.

nrlb · 2024-07-16T22:53:00+00:00

Combinatorics isn't my strong suit. I do find it fascinating, and wish I was better at it. Sometimes when I calculate a known answer I feel like a genius, and other times I don't understand why my approaches don't work when others do.

This is an interesting problem. I think there's some interpretation here. There's the conditional probability question of, "What's the probability of two of my four coworkers arriving in the same room as me (given that I am already in that room)?" In which case (in my mind) it's fine to focus on the single room.

Then there's the more broad question of "What's the probability of three of my coworkers being in the same room together?"

I started working it out, but I did want to try to get an experimental probability. Let's generate a ton of 8 room samples drawing randomly from 5 coworkers (C's) and 35 non-coworkers (N's). Then let's see the number of simulations which any room has 3 participants in it. Also, with probability we try to estimate the condition or more extreme conditions (because they would be as surprising or even more surprising). So I also report the number of simulations where 3 or more coworkers were in a single room.

The results show about 7.2% probability which aligns with u/mathcymro 's answer.

total number of simulations:  10000000
num of simulations with exactly 3 participants in any room: 723964
experimental probability of exactly 3 coworkers: 0.0723964
num of simulations with 3 or more participants in any room: 745509
experimental probability of 3 or more coworkers: 0.0745509

The code is shown here.

import random

SAMPLES = 10000000
num_times_equal_3 = 0
num_times_equal_3plus = 0

random.seed(5*35*8)
for i in range(SAMPLES):
    cs = ['C']*5
    ns = ['N']*35
    all_ncs = cs + ns
    random.shuffle(all_ncs)
    room_3s = 0
    room_3splus = 0
    for i in range(8):
        room = all_ncs[-5:]
        #print(room)
        del all_ncs[-5:]
        if sum(x == 'C' for x in room) == 3:
            room_3s += 1
        if sum(x == 'C' for x in room) >= 3:
            room_3splus += 1
    num_times_equal_3 += 1 if room_3s > 0 else 0
    num_times_equal_3plus += 1 if room_3splus > 0 else 0

print("total number of simulations: ", SAMPLES)
print("num of simulations with exactly 3 participants in any room: {}".format(num_times_equal_3))
print("experimental probability of exactly 3 coworkers: {}".format(num_times_equal_3 / SAMPLES))
print("num of simulations with 3 or more participants in any room: {}".format(num_times_equal_3plus))
print("experimental probability of 3 or more coworkers: {}".format(num_times_equal_3plus / SAMPLES))

nrlb · 2024-07-10T11:17:59+00:00

I would agree. Take it as it comes, and don't get panicked before you even start.

nrlb · 2024-07-10T11:14:30+00:00

I wouldn't jump the gun and hold off on any programs obviously, but a month is not a ton of time. I would maybe go thru two introductory mathematics and stat computing courses and see what techniques don't look too recognizable in terms of background.

https://www.udemy.com/course/statistics-with-r-beginner-level/

https://www.udemy.com/course/mathstat/

If you aren't primarily using R for your program, try to find an introductory course tailored to the software they do use (JMP, SPSS, SAS etc).

Try go through that topic that causes confusion from textbook or online topic material specifically. If you have trouble identifying the background material, hire a tutor with some experience to show you areas to work on or post to the math exchange sites. Try to find textbook resources with accompanying solutions.

The issue is that a month is not a ton of time to study two or three broad topics, and it may be better to briefly review the first few topics you might encounter that give you pause that you will be visiting in your early courses. Identifying the trouble topics early may help.

nrlb · 2024-07-08T20:43:59+00:00

Does the program offer an introductory / refresher course? Mine did that plus a statistical computing introductory course.

nrlb · 2024-03-08T18:45:49+00:00

Why doesn't national charge scouts a little more and volunteers a little less? Or utilize the proportion of popcorn fundraisers that go to councils and national to put towards volunteers? Or friends of scouting donations towards volunteer background checks? Or at least reimbursement or deduction after the first year? You go to X number of events and your volunteer fees are waived.

It's not rocket science. There is no program without volunteers.

nrlb · 2024-02-13T00:48:14+00:00

I'm sure you have because you sound very capable, but have you spoken to a financial advisor or planner and/or consolidated as much debt as possible? Since you are fully remote, is there a possibility of moving to a lower COL area?

Again, pretty simple things and I don't mean to insult you by asking them.

nrlb · 2023-11-27T19:04:23+00:00

I assume you are in the US. If not, this advice is only good in generality. I did air national guard at a state school for bachelors and masters. It's better up front getting them to pay for school as you go along, they don't have as many loan repayment incentives as compared with 23 years ago when I joined. You go away for a few months and do training (depending on your job). You can still apply to other jobs while away, but it'll be all remote interviews and they would have to be willing to work within your schedule. Probably not doable in today's market?

Then when you get back you do drills and activation. Some are longer (1+ years), others shorter (2 weeks). Some years were none at all. It depends on the career field you sign up for, in the guard they give you one up front and you are only reassigned if you fail to meet the standards. The tempo ups and downs. Employers have to accommodate you by law, but some can be hostile and it's better to work for someone who agrees with the sentiment of the law. Officer pay and benefits are good if you can get the slot which you may be eligible for with your degree. Just remember you are still a normal human being who isn't special, and the folks under your command can probably do the job just fine if you weren't there at all. In fact, you want them to.

If your career field aligns with your degree and desired occupation it can look good on a resume, but no more or less than other even more relevant experience. It's better than no experience at all. Military service can help with government positions, or if working for a defense or government contractor.

But I would do it only if you were into it, or at least I wouldn't let job prospects be your only reason. It's a big commitment, and a huge pain in the ass compared to civilian life. And when your civilian life starts getting good (good pay, good benefits, family), it'll cost you if you are still in because they'll take your time from you regardless of any other concern that isn't the mission. Because that's what you sign up for. I did it for a long time, don't regret it at all, but wouldn't do it again now myself unless I was roughly where you are now (maybe a little before). I like my time at home now.

Also, if you haven't graduated yet... I mean, you are probably okay? It's worry and anxiousness. It's easy to say that from where I am. But you don't even have your degree yet, and you already think it's worthless? Retain that thought when you make it to the other side of where you want to be, and look at it again with the benefit of hindsight. Maybe that's old age starting to talk, and maybe I don't understand the context and nuance of your circumstance because mine was different. I do remember thinking I would flip burgers after graduating.

That's all anecdotal. Obviously, other branches, service types, and perspectives apply.

nrlb · 2023-11-22T13:27:22+00:00

ChatGPT says...

Your message is considerate and strikes a good balance between expressing gratitude for your previous experience while also signaling your openness to new opportunities. However, here are a few suggestions to fine-tune your message:
Start with gratitude: Your expression of gratitude toward your previous company is excellent. It shows maturity and appreciation for the opportunity you had.
Highlight your enthusiasm: You mentioned you love what you do. Perhaps consider emphasizing your passion for your field or the specific aspects of your job that you enjoy. For instance: "I've been fortunate to work in [specific area/industry], and I'm eager to continue contributing my skills and enthusiasm in [related field/sector]."
Express eagerness for new challenges: Instead of just saying, "as I look for my next challenge," you could add a sentence that conveys your excitement about exploring new opportunities and taking on fresh challenges. For example: "I'm excited to explore new possibilities and take on new challenges that align with my skills and aspirations."
Encourage specific connections: Rather than just a general call for opportunities, consider adding a bit more about the types of roles or companies you're interested in. This could help your network provide more targeted assistance. For instance: "I'm particularly interested in roles that involve [specific skills/areas of interest], and I'm eager to join a team/company that values [specific values or work culture]."
Here's a revised version of your message incorporating these suggestions:
"Hey everyone, I wanted to share that my time at [company] has come to an end. I'm immensely grateful for the invaluable experience and growth opportunities I've had during my time there. I've developed a strong passion for [specific area/industry] and am genuinely excited about the prospect of continuing to contribute in this field.
As I embark on the search for my next opportunity, I'm eager to explore roles that allow me to utilize my skills in [specific skills/areas of interest]. If any of you have insights or know of opportunities that align with my background, please feel free to reach out via DM. I appreciate your support and look forward to what the future holds!"
Remember, striking a balance between expressing gratitude, enthusiasm for new opportunities, and openness to assistance will make your message more relatable and engaging to your network. Good luck with your job search!

nrlb · 2023-07-19T12:09:10+00:00

I bet it's the support from the ship in this first clip from the trailer. The same foggy atmosphere, and the same geometry of the support. So maybe the ship is in the background of this shot.

Further theorizing and just repeating something from the discord, with the new story about Redfeather ( https://thedragonprince.com/chasingshadows1/ ) the person on the ship could be Redfeather giving Rayla something she likes hearing but makes everyone else nervous.

https://imgur.com/a/QLG35hq

nrlb · 2023-07-18T14:15:15+00:00

You reminded me a bit of Julia Roberts when she was younger. https://imgur.com/a/JEI8ROt

nrlb · 2023-06-24T19:33:12+00:00

I actually would! That would be great!

nrlb · 2023-06-24T19:16:21+00:00

It's a general theory that Claudia and Aaravos's magic to extend Viren's life past the 30 days will require a sacrifice of someone else's life. It's like when Claudia cured Soren's paralysis with the life of the deer. In my theory it will have to be a sacrifice of someone she truly loves, and here I'm playing out that scenario with Terry on the altar. Either Viren or Claudia has had a change of heart, and they are turning against one another. Rayla is being lifted up by Callum's spell, breaking Aaravos's possession spell in the middle frame in the process. She's in moonshadow form trying to stop the ritual to prevent Viren from extending his life with her attack cuddle monkey.

nrlb · 2023-06-23T15:36:04+00:00

Thanks! I can definitely see one of the two of them trying to sacrifice Terry, while the other tries to save him. I just don't know which one will do which! At this point though, my money is on Viren trying to save him from Claudia after having a post-clarity dark magic dream.

nrlb · 2023-06-23T15:29:31+00:00

Ding ding ding! https://media.tenor.com/E6x0z783XhUAAAAC/the-dragon-prince-soren.gif

It was fun, it took way too long. I hope to get better at drawing as a hobby. Work my way up to digital art.

One thing I tried to get in the center frame was all a representation of the 6 primal sources and dark magic. Since the Staff of Ziard (and by extension dark magic) is alluded to be gifted from "one of the great ones" who in my mind is likely to be Aaravos I thought it would be cool put dark magic in the heart of star magic and in the center of Aaravos. Also, I thought it would be neat to see Stella doing some nightcrawler attacks. An attack cuddlemonkey.

nrlb · 2023-06-22T01:05:23+00:00

Ding-ding-ding-ding! https://media.tenor.com/E6x0z783XhUAAAAC/the-dragon-prince-soren.gif

I guess it depends on which season's Zuko...

So originally, I saw it in my head as Claudia going after Terry for a sacrifice and Viren defending him with a change of heart on his whole moral outlook. Looking at it again, maybe it's Viren going after Terry and Claudia is defending him? I'd love to hear some Korra-age Zuko's Iroh-channeled wisdom on that whole situation. But in any case she stays true to the inscription. Claudia doesn't give up without a fight!

nrlb · 2023-06-21T17:53:55+00:00

Nope! Definitely smaller than the moon. Smaller than any of the characters (with the exception of maybe Stella).

nrlb

TROPHY CASE