From memory, an aviation background was not of any real value at the initial testing stage, nor the second stage of computer battery tests (2 days worth back then...yuck!!). But if selected it will be of use during training and if successful definitely useful when line training for a rating. You will do some very similar subjects, Met, Performance,Principles of Flights etc. The difference in aircraft performance is very valuable background. But it doesnt make you a controller.
Probably one of the most important skills IMHO is how you work with others in your team, prioritising of your tasks when busy, and making a decision and not being swayed by others if you think it is the right one considering all the facts which they may not be aware of. You will work with some strong personalities with a lot of experience and it can be easy to be intimidated, but it is yours on the line every day, not theirs.
For those of you who are successful, read carefully your letter of appointment. In the excitement and relief of making the grade, some simple lines in your letter of appointment make make things difficulkt with your employer in the future. I know of some contollers who by taking a start date 2 weeks later out of two options are now $20000 a year worse off. Your employer is going through some massive cost reductions at the moment, and new recruits are a soft target. If you want to know more before you join contact the Civil Air office (the ATC union) (I am not a union official BTW, just someone who has seen what is going on.)
http://www.civilair.asn.au/ Federal Office Telephone +61 (0)3 9646 9277
Freecall 1800 359 007
Facsimile +61 (0)3 9646 6799
Postal P.O. Box 394
Port Melbourne, Vic, 3207
AUSTRALIA
Location Ground Floor, 214 Graham St
Port Melbourne VIC
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[email protected]
"The views expressed here are a personal rant and rave and in no way reflect the views of my employer/s, not even by coincidence I should imagine "