Originally Posted by
Oldbluedog
I’d agree with all of the above.
Think old school RAAF morphed with Lord of the Flies. Start by forming an all male government department managed by old school RAAF, turn it into an exclusive private entity then add very well paid. Allow it to self manage. Immaturity and butt kissing is prevalent.
Poor behaviour has been rife forever. The treatment of women when they started in ATC has been a long term stain. Any variation from the “norm” makes you susceptible.
Following internal and external (read federal legislation and laws) policies is definitely not a priority for management at the academy or in the towers/centres and HR. A good coverup and circling of the wagons solves that.
ASA is not accountable to anyone and it shows.
If you get in, trust no one and watch your back. Don’t be quiet or outspoken. Don’t mention any issues or “weaknesses”. The grapevine is strong, hungry and extremely active. Your entire career can be destroyed because of something you wear, say or do.
Poor behaviour and actions by management are denied, protected and hidden through over 6 levels of management. You at the bottom are expendable as they close ranks to protect what they have. Incestuous is a word that comes to mind with how it’s run and who gets each role.
Don’t expect Civil Air to put you ahead of management when it comes to the crunch. Your poor ass will be traded for some larger deal being negotiated.
I could list endless breaches of workplace practices across dozens of areas today and still think of more tomorrow.
It’s a real pity as it’s a great job in an amazing field.
Too many brilliant and nice folk get destroyed without justification. Thrown under the bus daily.
No bitterness or anger here, just honesty.
I’d go as far as saying that the social schoolyard level skills required to achieve a successful and rewarding career honestly and morally are far in excess of the academic and intellectual requirements to get in.
Dishonest heartless grubs thrive.
100% what obd said. ASA is a toxic environment in every area including the academy and management. If you're male and a bully or female and quiet you should be okay. I'm saying this as someone that still works there but I'm not sure why I do. I'm not saying this to put you off apply necessarily, but just to get you prepared for what you'll see.