Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 10/22/2006

Question
I am just wondering how you worked your way up in this field. Where did you start out, what you do now?. What do you like most/least about your job. As trends are changing; about how hard is it to get in this field?
I am currently enrolled at a community college in St. Paul, with the intention of working towards a degree in Dental Hygiene. I have recently become weary about this field as I work in a dental lab, and don't really see myself retiring in this line of work. My boyfriend just told me today about ATC, so I began to search the net for info. Lucky for me, MCTC is not insanely far away for me, although who knows if I could even get in the program in time. (I am 24)
I guess I am just trying to figure out from someone who is in the field what challenges and rewards come from your position, or if you have any advise for someone who is interested.
Thank You for your time, I hope I will hear from you soon!

Sincerely,
Brenda Kinney

Answer
Hi Brenda,
   I started out in Memphis Center in 1984 and was there until I got promoted and moved to Atlanta.  I am currently a Front Line Manager in Atlanta ARTCC.  As a controller the best part of the job is separating the traffic, sequencing the aircraft and talking to the airplanes.  The worst part for me is all the structure that is coming to the air traffic system.  Currently, I only know of two ways to get hired by the FAA as an air traffic controller.  Graduate from a CTI school or be a direct hire from the US military.  

The job is changing, there is a new contract with the union and the pay scales are quite a bit different that what they have been in the past.  However, I still believe that the pay is good compared to other jobs.  I believe the new AT pay scale goes from about $85,000 to 115,000 per year with locality pay.  

I have really enjoyed my career as an air traffic controller.  The work goes from boring to very interesting in a matter of minutes.  You can expect to work nights, weekends and holidays for most of your career.  Annual leave and days off are based on seniority.  

If you have any more questions you can email me at dacusg@gmail.com and I will answer as best I can.

Good luck


Dacus

P.s. The FAA website is:   http://www.faa.gov/careers/employment/jobinfo.htm