To become a Navy air traffic controller in the US, candidates must meet strict eligibility requirements, complete basic training, attend “A” school for specialized training, and undergo on-the-job training for one to two years. Enlistment methods and benefits should be discussed with a recruiter.
Many countries around the world hire air traffic controllers specifically to support naval operations, and enlistment requirements and training procedures vary from country to country. In the United States, to become a Navy air traffic controller, you must first meet qualification requirements and successfully complete training. So expect specialized training in your field before you can work at a naval facility or on a carrier ship.
The first step to joining any branch of the military is talking to a recruiter. A US Navy recruiter will assess a candidate’s eligibility and discuss the enlistment process. He will also answer any questions about training, benefits and working as an air traffic controller. Recruits should consider different enlistment methods, such as the late entry program (DEP), which allows enlistment immediately but defers active duty for a while. Navy recruits can also take advantage of the degree program, which allows them to join the Navy while attending school.
This branch of service has strict enlistment requirements for air traffic controller recruits. To be eligible for this job, you must have normal hearing, normal color perception, and 20/20 correctable vision. You must also be a US citizen with no history of substance abuse and must commit to a minimum of 60 months in service. To become a Navy air traffic controller, you must also score at least 220 on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test.
After the Navy recruit submits his application along with supporting documentation such as medical records, it will go through the Military Entry Processing Station (MEPS). He will undergo a physical exam and participate in a pre-enlistment interview before being sworn in. Thereafter, he must successfully complete seven to nine weeks at Navy boot camp. This training consists of physical exercises, academic classes and instruction in basic weaponry.
Recruits who want to become a Navy air traffic controller must also attend “A” school after training. “A” school, which lasts about 110 days, is where recruits learn specialized skills in their chosen career fields. Air traffic control recruits will learn how to read radar screens, how to plot aircraft positions and how to operate computer systems. They will learn how to use the equipment to steer aircraft and the basics of flight instruction.
After graduating from “A” school and becoming an Air Traffic Controller for the Navy, you will spend the next one to two years in on-the-job training. Navy interns will learn additional skills, receive one-on-one training, and attend lectures. At the end of this process, successful interns will receive certification in this field.
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