Intro
Discover the ultimate guide to becoming an Air Traffic Controller. Learn the top 10 ways to navigate a career in air traffic control, from meeting FAA requirements to developing essential skills in communication, decision-making, and situational awareness. Explore training programs, certification processes, and expert tips to land your dream job in air traffic management.
Becoming an air traffic controller is a challenging and rewarding career goal that requires a unique combination of skills, knowledge, and personal qualities. As an air traffic controller, you will be responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft through the national airspace system. Here are 10 ways to become an air traffic controller:
Air traffic control is a critical component of the aviation industry, and the demand for skilled controllers is high. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the number of air traffic controllers is expected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, this growth rate is still expected to result in over 1,000 new air traffic control positions being created each year.
To become an air traffic controller, you will need to meet the basic qualifications set by the FAA, which include being a U.S. citizen, being at least 18 years old, and being able to pass a physical examination and a background investigation.
1. Meet the Basic Qualifications
The first step to becoming an air traffic controller is to meet the basic qualifications set by the FAA. These qualifications include:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being at least 18 years old
- Being able to pass a physical examination
- Being able to pass a background investigation
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Having three years of progressively responsible work experience, or a bachelor's degree, or a combination of post-secondary education and work experience that totals three years
Education and Training
While a college degree is not required to become an air traffic controller, having one can be beneficial in the hiring process. The FAA recommends that applicants have a degree in a field such as air traffic control, aviation, or a related field.
Air traffic controllers must also complete a training program at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This program includes both classroom and simulation training and covers topics such as air traffic control procedures, weather, and aircraft performance.
2. Gain Relevant Experience
Gaining relevant experience can be beneficial in the hiring process for air traffic controllers. This can include experience in the military, as a pilot, or in a related field such as air traffic control or aviation.
The FAA also offers a program called the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI), which allows students to receive training and education in air traffic control at participating colleges and universities.
Military Experience
Military experience can be beneficial in the hiring process for air traffic controllers. The FAA offers a program called the Military to FAA Program, which allows military personnel to receive credit for their experience and training in the hiring process.
3. Build Your Skills
Air traffic controllers must have strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work well under stress. They must also be able to multitask and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
Building your skills in these areas can be beneficial in the hiring process. This can include taking courses or getting experience in fields such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership.
4. Prepare for the Hiring Process
The hiring process for air traffic controllers is highly competitive, and applicants must be prepared to stand out from the crowd. This can include preparing for the pre-employment test, which is required for all applicants.
The pre-employment test is a multiple-choice test that covers topics such as air traffic control procedures, weather, and aircraft performance. Applicants can prepare for the test by studying and taking practice tests.
Practice Tests
Practice tests can be beneficial in preparing for the pre-employment test. The FAA offers a practice test on their website, and there are also many other study resources available.
5. Network and Make Connections
Networking and making connections in the industry can be beneficial in the hiring process. This can include attending job fairs and industry events, as well as connecting with current or former air traffic controllers.
Professional Associations
Joining professional associations such as the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) can be beneficial in making connections and staying up-to-date on industry news and developments.
6. Stay Flexible
Air traffic controllers must be flexible and willing to work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. They must also be willing to relocate to different parts of the country.
Being flexible and willing to adapt to changing situations can be beneficial in the hiring process.
Relocation
Being willing to relocate can be beneficial in the hiring process. Air traffic controllers may be required to relocate to different parts of the country, and being willing to do so can make them more competitive in the hiring process.
7. Get in Shape
Air traffic controllers must be in good physical shape and pass a physical examination as part of the hiring process.
Getting in shape and passing the physical examination can be beneficial in the hiring process.
Physical Examination
The physical examination for air traffic controllers includes a vision test, a hearing test, and a medical examination. Applicants must pass the physical examination to be considered for the position.
8. Be Prepared for the Background Investigation
Air traffic controllers must pass a background investigation as part of the hiring process. This includes a review of the applicant's employment history, education, and personal references.
Being prepared for the background investigation can be beneficial in the hiring process. This can include having all necessary documents and information ready, as well as being prepared to answer questions about the applicant's background.
Background Investigation
The background investigation for air traffic controllers includes a review of the applicant's employment history, education, and personal references. Applicants must pass the background investigation to be considered for the position.
9. Stay Positive and Persistent
The hiring process for air traffic controllers can be long and challenging, and applicants must stay positive and persistent throughout the process.
Staying positive and persistent can be beneficial in the hiring process. This can include staying focused on the goal of becoming an air traffic controller, and being willing to overcome obstacles and setbacks.
Overcoming Obstacles
Overcoming obstacles and setbacks can be beneficial in the hiring process. Air traffic controllers must be able to work well under stress and overcome challenges in high-pressure situations.
10. Consider Internships and Volunteer Work
Internships and volunteer work can be beneficial in the hiring process for air traffic controllers. This can include interning at an air traffic control facility or volunteering at an aviation-related organization.
Internships and volunteer work can provide valuable experience and skills, as well as make the applicant more competitive in the hiring process.
Internships
Internships can provide valuable experience and skills, as well as make the applicant more competitive in the hiring process. The FAA offers internships for students and recent graduates.
Air Traffic Controller Image Gallery
What is the average salary for an air traffic controller?
+The average salary for an air traffic controller is around $60,000 per year, although salaries can range from around $40,000 to over $100,000 per year depending on experience and location.
What are the requirements to become an air traffic controller?
+To become an air traffic controller, you must be a U.S. citizen, be at least 18 years old, and pass a physical examination and a background investigation. You must also complete a training program at the FAA Academy and pass a certification exam.
What is the job outlook for air traffic controllers?
+The job outlook for air traffic controllers is good, with the FAA expecting to hire over 1,000 new controllers each year over the next decade.
If you are interested in becoming an air traffic controller, we encourage you to share this article with others who may be interested in this career path. Additionally, please leave a comment below if you have any questions or concerns about becoming an air traffic controller.