Here is my experience on the matter,
I joined Nats in 1990 as an ATSA in the early days of LFMU. Went to CFMU for a few years and eventually returned to LATCC. I saw that the writing was on the wall for the ATSA as technology was developing in such a way that eventually much of the role of the ATSA would be made obsolete.
Nats were thinking the same thing as they began to employ atsa's on less favourable contracts than I had myself. Anyway I looked at my options and realised that in order to keep my job I needed to reskill myself. Having an interest in IT, I spoke to the Engineering managers and let them know that I was very keen to move into the Engineering/Technology side of the company and that if anything came up I would jump at the chance. Luckily a position came up and I was able to be released from the ATC watch and moved into Engineering. Here I managed to convince my manager to let me go to college on day release. I eventually got a HND, took a years career break to go full time to Uni and graduated a year later.
My point is this...atsas should take a look at what is happening around them. It is clear how things are moving against them however if there are opportunities to reskill while remaining within the company, seek them out and use the system to reskill.
PS
After graduating I realised that Nats and UK didnt look so attractive anymore so I emigrated to join another company.
PPS
I would also like to wish Fallows all the luck in the world. I spent many a shift alongside you on FIR as a young ATSA and would like to thank you for your patience and humour (you need it supporting NVFC
).
Take it easy M8!!