FAA PLANS TO HIRE AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER TRAINEES

At a time when hundreds are losing jobs, one government agency is recruiting thousands.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is accepting applications from the general public for air traffic controller positions. The FAA plans to hire 15,000 controllers over the next decade. The agency is undertaking this intensive hiring effort to replace the large number of controllers who began their careers in the 1980s and are now eligible to retire.

Sandra Sanchez, Director of Organizational Culture and Diversity, said that air traffic controllers come to the FAA from all walks of life but the Agency would like to see everyone in our diverse society fully participate in its workforce.  “We believe that diversity at the agency relates to the strength of our organization, and we encourage people who may not have thought of careers in aviation to apply,” she said.  “

Connie Thompson joined the FAA several years ago and is currently in training at a Washington, D.C. air traffic facility.  “It’s a career that I knew that I wanted to pursue. I find it challenging and exciting,” Thompson said.

If you’re a U.S. citizen under the age of 31 and would like an exciting career as an air traffic controller, check out FAA’s website at www.faa.gov.  The announcements close this Friday, July 17.  Sanchez said those who are not prepared to apply for the job during this open announcement will have an opportunity to apply again in the very near future.