Unlock a rewarding career in aviation with the Air Traffic Control Army. Discover 5 ways to join the esteemed ranks of air traffic controllers, ensuring safe and efficient air travel. Learn about the requirements, training, and benefits of this challenging profession, and find out how to become a vital part of the aviation industrys backbone.
Becoming an air traffic controller is a dream shared by many, but achieved by few. The allure of guiding aircraft through takeoff, landing, and travel is a challenging yet rewarding career path that requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for aviation. If you're interested in joining the ranks of air traffic controllers, there are several ways to get started. In this article, we'll explore five ways to join the air traffic controller army and embark on a fulfilling career in aviation.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before diving into the ways to join the air traffic controller army, it's essential to meet the basic requirements. These include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Passing a physical examination
- Passing a background investigation
- Scoring well on the Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) exam
- Completing a training program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Education and Training
While a college degree is not necessarily required to become an air traffic controller, having one can be beneficial. The FAA recommends that candidates have a bachelor's degree in any field, as well as a strong understanding of mathematics and science.
In addition to education, candidates must also complete a training program approved by the FAA. These programs are typically found at colleges and universities that have aviation programs.
Method 1: Apply to the FAA's Air Traffic Control Program
One way to join the air traffic controller army is by applying to the FAA's Air Traffic Control Program. This program is highly competitive, but it provides candidates with the opportunity to work directly with the FAA.
To apply, candidates must:
- Meet the basic requirements
- Pass the AT-SAT exam
- Complete a training program approved by the FAA
- Apply to the FAA's Air Traffic Control Program through USAJobs
What to Expect
If selected for the program, candidates will undergo an intensive training program that includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Simulation training
- On-the-job training
Upon completion of the training program, candidates will be assigned to an air traffic control facility where they will work under the supervision of experienced air traffic controllers.
Method 2: Join the Military
Another way to join the air traffic controller army is by joining the military. The military has its own air traffic control program, which provides candidates with the opportunity to work as air traffic controllers in a military setting.
To join the military's air traffic control program, candidates must:
- Meet the basic requirements
- Pass the ASVAB test
- Complete basic training
- Apply to the military's air traffic control program
What to Expect
If selected for the program, candidates will undergo a training program that includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Simulation training
- On-the-job training
Upon completion of the training program, candidates will be assigned to a military air traffic control facility where they will work under the supervision of experienced air traffic controllers.
Method 3: Work for a Private Air Traffic Control Company
A third way to join the air traffic controller army is by working for a private air traffic control company. These companies provide air traffic control services to airports and other aviation facilities.
To work for a private air traffic control company, candidates must:
- Meet the basic requirements
- Pass the AT-SAT exam
- Complete a training program approved by the FAA
- Apply to a private air traffic control company
What to Expect
If selected for a position with a private air traffic control company, candidates will undergo a training program that includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Simulation training
- On-the-job training
Upon completion of the training program, candidates will be assigned to an air traffic control facility where they will work under the supervision of experienced air traffic controllers.
Method 4: Volunteer for the Civil Air Patrol
A fourth way to join the air traffic controller army is by volunteering for the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). The CAP is a volunteer organization that provides air traffic control services to airports and other aviation facilities.
To volunteer for the CAP, candidates must:
- Meet the basic requirements
- Pass the AT-SAT exam
- Complete a training program approved by the FAA
- Apply to the CAP
What to Expect
If selected for a position with the CAP, candidates will undergo a training program that includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Simulation training
- On-the-job training
Upon completion of the training program, candidates will be assigned to an air traffic control facility where they will work under the supervision of experienced air traffic controllers.
Method 5: Participate in the FAA's Collegiate Training Initiative
A fifth way to join the air traffic controller army is by participating in the FAA's Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI). The CTI is a program that provides students with the opportunity to work as air traffic controllers while still in college.
To participate in the CTI, candidates must:
- Meet the basic requirements
- Be enrolled in a college or university with an aviation program
- Pass the AT-SAT exam
- Apply to the CTI program
What to Expect
If selected for the CTI program, candidates will undergo a training program that includes:
- Classroom instruction
- Simulation training
- On-the-job training
Upon completion of the training program, candidates will be assigned to an air traffic control facility where they will work under the supervision of experienced air traffic controllers.
Air Traffic Controller Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on the different ways to join the air traffic controller army. Whether you choose to apply to the FAA's Air Traffic Control Program, join the military, work for a private air traffic control company, volunteer for the Civil Air Patrol, or participate in the FAA's Collegiate Training Initiative, becoming an air traffic controller requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for aviation. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them in the section below.