Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 7/21/2004

Question
I live near Chicago. I recently heard that there will be a high number of controllers retiring due to the fact that Reagan fired a bunch about 20 years ago and had to rehire. Anyhow, I am interested, but my background is in construction. I know nothing about air traffic controlling. Is there some type of training program for someone like me? If so how long does it take, and how much would I get paid during the training, if any? What type of work schedule is typically followed (Is it similar to a full time firefighter?)  Also, what is the salary range for my area?

Answer
Dear Nolan,
    I have heard that there is a hiring freeze at the present time, but I have also heard that the FAA will hire about 1000 controllers next year.  Both could be rumors.  I do know that at my facility we are going to have quite a few retire this year or early next year.  
   It depends on what form of training you are in whether or not you get paid while training.  The only one that I know of that pays while you are training is actually being hired by the FAA and attending the FAA academy in OKC.  The other two are basically college.  Pay is good, but I don't know what it is now.
   Controllers typically work a 2-2-1 schedule.  Two nights, two days and a mid shift.  This varies by facility so it would just depend on where you are sent.  
   Chicago Tracon and Chicago Center, I believe, are two of the highest paid facilities, among others.  I would guess that a new CPC (certified professional controller) would earn $90,000 to 100,000 a year.  
  You can find all the requirements for employment at:  http://www.faa.gov/careers/employment/jobinfo.htm

I hope this helps.

Dacus Grant
dacus@iwon.com