Expert: Christopher McKenna - 12/22/2007

Question
Hello Mr. McKenna:

My 17 year-old son has a high interest in becoming an air traffic controller.  He graduates from high school this spring.  There is one school that offers a degree in this field in Georgia.  I went on the FAA website and it looks like you can become an air traffic controller by graduating from a school that offers this study or just by applying and taking the courses offered by the FAA.  
What do you recommend for him?  I have heard there is a shortage of ATCs and was wondering if there is any financial aid available from the FAA for entering this field?  Should he go to college for a degree or just apply with the FAA?  Any advice you could give us would be appreciated.  Thanks!   

Mike LaTella

Answer
Hi, and I hope your son makes it! If I were him, I would apply to the FAA directly, first. Since the FAA doesn't offer financial aid for college, if he could get in without having to go it would be cheaper. That may change, however, as the number of controllers continues to dwindle. I think applying directly is a good choice, especially since a college education isn't a necessity for this job. While many controllers have gone to college, a large number of excellent controllers haven't.
I hope this helps, and good luck!