Air Traffic Controller

[JeRmZ]

When I mentioned hard work I was talking more along the lines of actually securing the position, I know ATC's are hard positions to get into due to the fact that once people have the spot they rarely leave so it's going to take a lot of hard work and dedication in order to make sure your qualifications are up to par with someone who may be next in line for that open position.

[sivjosh]

And what I meant by hard work is the training/education needed to be qualified to take on an entry-level position in the field.

[Taliasen]

I heard it is a VERY HIGH STRESS job with a very high burnout/turnover rate.
Tim

[11chaos]

It was super stressful for my Dad and because of that it was stressful for us (my mom and sons)

[JeRmZ]

Yeah I think my buddy told me that they get 1/2 hour breaks every hour or something to that effect because of the stress level. But hey .... again 130K/year sounds good to me!!

[11chaos]

You should try to find a job that makes you happy because no amount of money can buy happiness.

[Steven]

Well....i would love a job like this...i no it would make me happy. I can handle the stress...im just worried about is being able to get the position quick enough. I have also heard that there is a bigger and bigger need for them.

[11chaos]

Good luck on whatever you decide to do. How do you know that you can handle the stress until you actually face adversity.

Going Military is your decision once you turn 18 and it would also pay for the school you need to have to become a ATC. I know I joined at 24 and glad to have done it then.

[haybierman]

Military would be the best way in. What would be the incentive for the FAA to hire you, a civilian with no training, as compared to someone who has proven their ability and been trained via the military?

I agree 100% with 11chaos. It's your decision, not your family's. If their views/opinions are holding you back from achieving what it is you want to do you will end up resenting them down the road.

Also, having tested and/or trained for my fair share of government positions, I would suggest you make sure to brush up on algebra, grammar, spelling, and logical reasoning as ALL agencies will make you take an assessment exam that will include these subjects and most require a 70% pass rate.

[JeRmZ]

Military would be the best way in. What would be the incentive for the FAA to hire you, a civilian with no training, as compared to someone who has proven their ability and been trained via the military?

I agree 100% with 11chaos. It's your decision, not your family's. If their views/opinions are holding you back from achieving what it is you want to do you will end up resenting them down the road.

Also, having tested and/or trained for my fair share of government positions, I would suggest you make sure to brush up on algebra, grammar, spelling, and logical reasoning as ALL agencies will make you take an assessment exam that will include these subjects and most require a 70% pass rate.

Great post right here! Good advice.