Intro
Unlock the skies with a rewarding career as an Army Air Traffic Controller. Discover the top 5 ways to pursue this challenging role, from meeting eligibility criteria to acing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pre-employment test. Learn about Army aviation, air traffic control procedures, and the skills required to succeed in this dynamic field.
Pursuing a career as an air traffic controller in the army can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. As an air traffic controller, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, both in combat and non-combat situations. Here are five ways to become an air traffic controller in the army:
Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an air traffic controller in the army, you must meet certain basic requirements. These include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be willing to enlist in the army and commit to serving for a minimum of four years.
Physical and Mental Demands
Air traffic control is a physically and mentally demanding job. You will be required to work long hours, often in high-stress situations, and make quick decisions that can have a significant impact on safety. You must be able to multitask, think critically, and communicate effectively.
Enlist in the Army and Complete Basic Training
Once you have met the basic requirements, you will need to enlist in the army and complete basic training. Basic training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT), is a 10-week course that will teach you the fundamental skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the army.
Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
After completing basic training, you will attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at the Army Air Traffic Control School at Fort Rucker, Alabama. AIT is a 19-week course that will teach you the specific skills and knowledge you need to become an air traffic controller.
Complete Air Traffic Control Training
During AIT, you will learn about air traffic control procedures, radar operations, and weather observation. You will also receive hands-on training in a simulated air traffic control environment.
Get Certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
After completing AIT, you will be eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification exam. The FAA certification is required for all air traffic controllers, and it will demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job safely and effectively.
Gain Experience and Get Promoted
Once you have completed your training and become certified by the FAA, you will be assigned to an air traffic control unit. You will start out as a junior air traffic controller and will work your way up to more senior positions as you gain experience and complete additional training.
Specialize in a Specific Area of Air Traffic Control
As you gain experience and get promoted, you may have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of air traffic control, such as approach control or tower control. You may also have the opportunity to work at a variety of different locations, both in the United States and overseas.
Consider Getting a Degree in a Related Field
While a degree is not required to become an air traffic controller in the army, it can be beneficial to have a degree in a related field, such as air traffic control, aviation management, or aeronautical science. A degree can demonstrate that you have a strong foundation in the principles and practices of air traffic control, and it can make you a more competitive candidate for promotion.
Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Technologies and Procedures
The field of air traffic control is constantly evolving, with new technologies and procedures being introduced all the time. To stay current, you will need to complete regular training and attend professional development courses.
Gallery of Air Traffic Controllers:
Air Traffic Controllers Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the basic requirements to become an air traffic controller in the army?
+To become an air traffic controller in the army, you must be a U.S. citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 35, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also be willing to enlist in the army and commit to serving for a minimum of four years.
What kind of training will I receive as an air traffic controller in the army?
+As an air traffic controller in the army, you will receive training at the Army Air Traffic Control School at Fort Rucker, Alabama. The training program is 19 weeks long and will teach you the specific skills and knowledge you need to become an air traffic controller.
Do I need to get certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to become an air traffic controller in the army?
+Yes, you will need to get certified by the FAA to become an air traffic controller in the army. The FAA certification is required for all air traffic controllers, and it will demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job safely and effectively.
What kind of career advancement opportunities are available to air traffic controllers in the army?
+As an air traffic controller in the army, you will have opportunities to advance your career through additional training and education. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of air traffic control, such as approach control or tower control.