Expert: David A. NewMyer - 10/1/2005

Question
I have been investigating a career in air traffic control. I am a 22 year old male college student (currently almost a sophomore). I have found that the schools in this field are very expensive, but I feel I would be a very good candidate to be successful in this field. Can you direct me to where I might find the financial support needed to fulfill my desire to pursue this career choice? ANY financial help would be greatly appreciated and needed! Thanks in advance for you assistance.
Joe

Answer
Hi, Joe:

Nice to hear from you.  I will try to assist.

I have three ideas for you:

1.  Check the "Collegiate Training Initiative" list of schools who work with the Federal Aviation Administration to provide ATC-related education.  You might find that one or two of those schools will be less costly than you expect.  Also, each institution has its own financial aid and scholarship informaiton for its students.

2.  Check this website:  www.uaa.aero   Scroll down on the list on the left hand side....you will see a link for the Collegiate Aviation Scholarship Listing.  This list has over $1.0 million in scholarships listed including some in ATC.  Also, they (the University Aviation Association) is about to issue a new list....for purchase.

3.  Finally, check this website:  www.avscholars.com  for aviation-related financial aid and scholarship information.

I hope that this information is of assistance to you.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu