Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 6/19/2007

Question
Hello, I had a question on what type of degree would serve me best to pursue a job as an air safety investigator? I am currently in the Air Force and I am an air traffic controller. Do I have to have a pilot's license, or can I specialize in the atc side of events? Also is there any other atc related specialties that I can seek experience in to better prepare me for a future in the investigator career?

Answer
Hi Michael,
    The FAA is currently hiring off the street.  Go to www.faa.gov and following the links to employment or jobs.  The requirements are usually specified in the job announcements.  I think that any degree will be acceptable.  I believe that the requirements are a degree or three years work experience.  There is usually a bid for former military air traffic controllers also on the job page.  When you search the job openings under series select 2152 and that will list only the air traffic controller jobs.  Look for the announcements that say all sources, these are open to the public.  You do not have to have a pilots license, most controllers do not.  As for the investigator careers and what to do I have no idea.


Good luck

Dacus Grant
dacus@iwon.com