Air traffic controllers ensure the safety and navigation of commercial and private planes. Becoming an air traffic controller requires extensive education and training, including passing certification exams and gaining on-the-job experience. Strong character traits, such as confidence, quick decision-making, and effective communication, are also necessary.
An air traffic controller ensures that commercial and private planes are kept safe and on course to their destinations at all times. The job of a professional air traffic controller is often fast-paced, stressful and demanding, and requires an individual to possess a strong character and a lot of confidence. A person who wants to become an air traffic controller is usually required to complete extensive educational and training requirements, in addition to passing practical and written certification exams. Requirements vary by location, but most countries expect a new professional to spend at least six years in classroom and practical training environments before becoming an air traffic controller.
An individual who wants to become an air traffic controller in the United States usually needs to earn a four-year degree from a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) accredited university or combine college work with hands-on experience at an aviation facility. Students typically receive instruction in physics, aeronautics, and information technology in the classroom, as well as hands-on training with flight simulators and real air traffic control equipment. Most other countries rely on government agencies similar to the FAA to provide education and training to potential air traffic controllers.
Upon graduation, the most successful students are given the opportunity to take pre-employment exams in order to gain eligibility for advanced training and entry-level jobs. The pre-employment test is a comprehensive, computer-based exam that can take up to eight hours to complete. An individual who passes the test and receives strong recommendations from their school can apply for jobs and participate in a 12-week training program at an FAA academy. During training, a new air traffic controller learns about different FAA regulations and procedures, practices in simulators, and becomes familiar with the equipment.
A person who has completed FAA academy training can begin work as an assistant or apprentice to an established air traffic controller. He or she can spend up to four years gaining training and on-the-job experience before earning certification. A person who demonstrates their skills in practical settings and periodic written exams can usually officially become an air traffic controller and begin working unsupervised.
In addition to the training requirements, it is important for an individual to possess several important character traits to become an air traffic controller. A person must be confident, good at making quick decisions and problem solving, a strong communicator and an effective leader. A potential air traffic controller needs to possess strong organizational skills and a great eye for detail in order to keep planes and passengers safe at all times. He or she must be alert, motivated and fully committed to the job.
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