The Federal Aviation Administration recently launched a week-long campaign to encourage women, minorities, and individuals from underrepresented communities to apply for the position of air traffic control specialist.
During the campaign, air traffic controllers and FAA leaders will share their stories in media interviews and online. In addition, the agency developed a digital toolkit.
“Having individuals with diverse backgrounds helps us find ways to continue enhancing aviation safety and efficiency,” Steve Dickson, FAA administrator, said. “I hope more people will pursue the opportunity to become an air traffic controller as a result of this effort.”
“When it comes to achieving the FAA’s safety mission, diversity is critical,” Bradley Mims, FAA deputy administrator, said. “Having people with varied backgrounds and different perspectives makes us more innovative, stronger, and safer as an agency.”
The agency will accept applications from July 30 through Aug. 2.
In fiscal year 2020, the FAA hired 920 controllers, bringing the total to 14,242. Over the next five years, it plans to hire more than 4,300 controllers.
New controllers complete air traffic basic training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. After graduation, trainees are assigned to an FAA facility for additional training. A certified professional controller can earn six figures and receives a comprehensive federal benefits package.