Expert: David A. NewMyer - 11/25/2007

Question
David thank you for your time,
I am currently attending my fourth and final year at a major aeronautical university, with a major in air traffic management, and a minor in aviation weather.  Obviously I had this major with a career in air traffic control in mind, now though I don't feel like that is the career for me.  Instead I would like to enter the field of aviation operations or management.  My question is, is my bachelors in air traffic management worth anything for that career choice, I have taken some management classes as part of my major and plan on taking a class on airport management next semester, as an elective.  My school offers a bachelors and even a masters in aviation management, but I am a little hesitant to sink deeper in student debt.
once again thanks for your time.
Jason

Answer
Hi,

I understand your dilemma and wish you well.  I would suggest the following:

1.  Take the class in airport management as planned;

2.  Join the American Association of Airport Executives as an academic member....cost is $40 a year.  They have a twice monthly newsletter that lists all kinds of job and internship opportunities that might appeal to you, mostly related to airport management, airport operations and airport planning;

3.  Plan on seeking an airport related internship for summer, 2008, once you have your airport course completed.  The AAAE group has a listing of airports which offer an intern program....it is at their website on the Academic Relations page.  You will be given access to this page once you join if you can not get to it today.  Also, the AAAE monthly newsletter will list internships.  In addition, your local airport might well offer an intern program....just ask.  Christmas time is a good time to go by and check with airports about what they will be doing with interns the following summer.....when you are home for the holidays, check with your local airports.

4.  The masters degree might also be a good option for extending your career choices, but check out AAAE and intern options first.  We offer a masters degree in aviation here at SIUC, and there are several others around the nation.....check out all of your options if you decide to go for a masters.

Good luck to you,

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