Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 11/13/2004

Question
Hi, I am currenty a pilot for a regional airline. I am interested in possibly becoming an air traffic controller, but I have many questions. I have done a little research and noticed there is currently a nationwide vacancy, but it sais they are only hirring guys that were in the military. I wonder if me being in the industry (in a sort of way) would help me in my qualifications? and one more question, does anybody hire you first,then send you to school. or is it more like an airline career, where you go pay for training yourself and then pray that someone will hire you? Any help in the area will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Caleb.

Answer
Dear Caleb,
   No, I don't think that being in the airline business will help you.  The bid is pretty specific about ex military or military on terminal leave.  However, I have heard that the FAA is going to start hiring off the street pretty soon.  This   is only a rumor and may not prove to be correct.  Keep checking the FAA home page for job openings.  The site is http://jobs.faa.gov/Allfaajobs.htm

The FAA website also has all the instructions for how training is accomplished.  The site is http://www.faa.gov/careers/employment/jobinfo.htm


I hope this helps.

Good Luck



Dacus Grant
dacus@iwon.com