Career: Air Traffic Controllers
While pilots might have the most glamorous job in the sky, it’s certainly not the only important one. Air traffic controllers are the men and women who sit above the tarmac in the control tower, managing traffic that no simple stoplight can handle.
They’re responsible for keeping order on busy runways and preventing crashes in the air. Some controllers direct traffic at the airport, while others direct traffic between airports.
Air traffic controllers coordinate the movement of air traffic, making sure that planes stay a safe distance apart during takeoff, in the air, and during landing.
Did You Know?
- Almost 90 percent of air traffic controllers work for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Are You Ready To...?
- Discuss flight plans
- Plan takeoffs and landings to avoid crashes and delays
- Track flights on radar
- Make quick decisions
- Juggle several planes at once
- Give takeoff and landing advice to pilots
- Discuss weather reports
- Work as part of a team
It Helps to Be...
A clear communicator. It also helps to have a great memory and to be able to interpret large amounts of information quickly. The ability to stay calm under pressure is also important.
Make High School Count
- Take full advantage of your math classes. As an air traffic controller, you’ll need to be able to understand distances and measurements at a moment's notice.
- Build solid speaking skills. Air traffic controllers are in constant communication with pilots and other controllers. Their directions must be clear and easy to comprehend.
- Master the computer. Air traffic controllers need to be familiar with computer programs and automated instruments.
Did You Know?
- Air traffic controllers also update pilots on the weather.
Outlook
Government economists predict that jobs for air traffic controllers will grow as fast as the average for all careers through 2016.
In that time, many of today’s air traffic controllers will be up for retirement. Replacements will be needed and there will likely be hundreds of new job openings. However, expect tough competition for a spot in the FAA training program.
Compensation
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average earnings of air traffic controllers in 2008 were $108,090.
