Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 1/27/2005

Question
Hi Dacus...recently I've been interested in pursuing a career as an ATC and have been passionate about the aviation industry since my first flight in 1984.  
Question - I'm 27, currently live in Los Angeles and am looking to relocate back to the east coast.  I've seen a listing of schools that offer the FAA-approved courses/degree programs, but I was wondering what the job prospect is like for recent-grads.  Meaning, would someone need experience at a small airport before getting hired at a major aiport like ATL, LAX, JFK or are recent grads afforded the same opportunities?  I know there is a school near me in LA but I may be moving to ATL where there aren't any schools close.  I wanted to know if I should take classes here, now or move and then try to pursue.  Any info you have would be great!  Thanks, Bryan
bryanw77@comcast.net

Answer
Hi Bryan,
   The FAA administrator recently announced plans to hire 12500 controllers within the next 10 years.  I am not sure what the requirements are to get into a major terminal, but I believe that most controllers work their way up.  I work in the center enviorment and we usually go from school to the facility that we will work in.  I have checked the FAA website  recently looking for an update of when the FAA will start hiring off the street, but so far I have not seen anything that will apply to the general public.
The FAA website is http://jobs.faa.gov/Allfaajobs.htm
Select Non-Federal employees and under series type 2152 and this will list all air traffic controller jobs open to the general public.

Good Luck

Dacus
Dacus@iwon.com