FAA launches campaign to recruit next generation of air traffic controllers

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that it is launching a recruitment campaign targeting the next generation of air traffic controllers.

Called ‘Be ATC’, the campaign aims to target diverse organizations, work with social media influencers, and host Instagram Live conversations in order to encourage more applications from women and other underrepresented groups.

“We know that different perspectives add value to any organization, so it is important that we attract people with a wide range of backgrounds to help enhance our safety mission,” Virginia Boyle, vice president for system operations services in the FAA’s air traffic organization said in a statement.

“It’s a challenging job, but it’s also rewarding. At the end of the day when you get home and look up at the sky, you know that what you’ve done makes a difference,” said Jeffrey Vincent, vice president for air traffic services in the FAA’s air traffic organization.

The FAA said that applicants must be U.S. citizens, speak clear English and be no older than 30 years of age (with limited exceptions).

They must also have either three years of general work experience or four years of education leading to a bachelor’s degree, or a combination of both. Applicants must also pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA). Individuals who are selected are also required to pass all pre-employment requirements, including a medical examination, security investigation, and a drug test.

The application window will be open from June 24-27, 2022 for all eligible U.S. citizens. Full requirements and details regarding the application process can be viewed here.