7 Ways To Become A Military Air Traffic Controller

The role of a military air traffic controller is one of the most critical and demanding careers in the armed forces. As a military air traffic controller, you will be responsible for ensuring the safe takeoff, landing, and transit of military aircraft, as well as maintaining effective communication with pilots and other air traffic control personnel. If you're interested in pursuing this challenging and rewarding career, here are seven ways to become a military air traffic controller:

Meet the Basic Requirements

To become a military air traffic controller, 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 able to pass a physical exam and a background check.

Physical and Mental Demands

The job of a military air traffic controller is physically and mentally demanding. You will be required to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment, making quick decisions that can mean the difference between life and death. You must also be able to pass a physical exam to ensure that you are fit for duty.

Enlist in the Military

To become a military air traffic controller, you must enlist in the military. You can do this by visiting a recruiter or by applying online. Once you have enlisted, you will be required to attend basic training, where you will learn the skills and values necessary to succeed in the military.

Choose Your Branch

The military has several branches, each with its own air traffic control program. The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps all have air traffic control programs, and each has its own requirements and training process. You will need to choose which branch you want to join and apply for their air traffic control program.

Attend Air Traffic Control School

Once you have enlisted and chosen your branch, you will attend air traffic control school. This school will teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a military air traffic controller, including radar operations, weather observation, and communication techniques.

Learn the Skills

At air traffic control school, you will learn the skills necessary to succeed as a military air traffic controller. These skills include:

• Radar operations: You will learn how to use radar to track aircraft and guide them safely to their destinations.
• Weather observation: You will learn how to observe and report weather conditions, which is critical for safe flight operations.
• Communication techniques: You will learn how to communicate effectively with pilots and other air traffic control personnel.

Get Certified

After completing air traffic control school, you will be certified as a military air traffic controller. This certification is recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is a requirement for working as a civilian air traffic controller.

Maintain Certification

To maintain your certification, you will be required to complete regular training and testing. This will ensure that you stay up-to-date with the latest procedures and technologies, and that you are able to perform your duties safely and effectively.

Gain Experience

After becoming certified, you will gain experience as a military air traffic controller. You will work in a variety of environments, including air traffic control towers and radar stations. You will also have the opportunity to work with a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters.

Advance Your Career

As you gain experience, you will have the opportunity to advance your career as a military air traffic controller. You can move into supervisory or management positions, or you can specialize in a particular area, such as radar operations or weather observation.

Transition to a Civilian Career

After leaving the military, you can transition to a civilian career as an air traffic controller. Your certification and experience will be recognized by the FAA, and you will be qualified to work at civilian airports and air traffic control facilities.

Requirements for Civilian Air Traffic Controllers

To become a civilian air traffic controller, you must meet certain requirements, including:

• Being a U.S. citizen
• Being at least 18 years old
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Passing a physical exam and a background check
• Passing a pre-employment test

Conclusion

Becoming a military air traffic controller requires a significant amount of training, education, and experience. However, it can be a highly rewarding career, both personally and professionally. By following these seven steps, you can pursue a career as a military air traffic controller and make a difference in the safety and security of military aviation.

Military Air Traffic Control Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to pursue a career as a military air traffic controller. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and always be willing to learn and adapt to new situations. Good luck!