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Air Traffic Controllers

Employment Prospects

Employers

Approximately 22,310 air traffic controllers work in the United States. Nearly all are employed by the federal government. Most work for the FAA, although a small number work in such areas as the Department of Defense or for local airports.

Starting Out

The first step in becoming an air traffic controller is taking the written civil service exam, followed by a one-week screening process. Acceptance is on a highly competitive basis. High grades in college or strong work experience are considered essential. Experience in related fields, including pilots, air dispatch operators, and other positions with either the civil airlines or the military service, will be important for those with—and especially for those without—a college degree. Actual air control experience gained in military service may be a plus. However, civil aviation rules are quite different from military aviation rules. Because the FAA provides complete training, applicants with strong skills and abilities in abstract reasoning, communication, problem-solving, and the ability to learn and work independently will have the best chance of entering this field.

After they graduate from the FAA Academy, trainees are assigned to an air traffic control facility as developmental controllers. They work at this facility until they complete the requirements to become a certified air traffic controller.