Eurocontrol - Any questions, please ask!

[soontobeATCO]

First of all, Hello!

Longtime user, first time poster on PPRUNE. Now that i might have something useful to contribute, i thought i would make a post.

Ive just been accepted (subject to medicals) on to the Eurocontrol ATCO training scheme in Luxembourg/Maastricht.

If anyone else out there is in the process of applying, or would like some insights into selection process please feel free to ask.

Im a UK national, at university, I have a PPL already etc etc!

Cheers.

SoontobeATCO

[flyingsystem]

Congrats "soontobeATCO":ok:
I've my first test in June at Maastricht and any help would be welcome! Did you passed trough the "FEAST" test? What about the english test? Its sure that for u its easy (:*) but I've to know because Im from belgium.

As I read before,test itself is not difficult but its time. Same for you?
What kind of questions were in this test? How many people are tested the same day? and how many arrive at the end of the process?
Do you have any "tip(s)" that can help in my tests?
I will keep you informed of my results and will then ask questions about the second part of selection, if I pass!

Ah yes, a last question, how many time after your last part of selection process you begin the training?

I know its a lot of questions, so feel free to answer when you've time;)!

I thank you in advance,
FlyingSystem.

[soontobeATCO]

Hi flyingsystem


Yes i took the FEAST tests. First of all let me say, that for the phase 1 selection tests there is really very little you can do to prepare.

The FEAST tests are all computerised and are fairly straightforward as long as you follow the instructions carefully. You are allowed to proceed at your own pace (within certain time constraints) and the whole atmosphere is quite relaxed.

They consist of the usual dreaded cubes test! and also logic/numeric sorting tasks. There is an english language proficiency check, and although for me this was obviously not a problem, it does seem to be the main stumbling block for non-native speakers.

At lunch time successful candidates will be invited to stay for the 2nd round in the afternoon. This is a "live" traffic situation where you have to process strips and identify conflicts on the computer screen. The main advice i can give here is to read and read again the instructions, and then try to remian calm and think logically.

If you pass these tests you will be invited back for the 2nd/3rd round selection tests. I found the 2nd rouund at least to be easier - the pressure is "off" to some extent and you can almost enjoy yourself. 2nd round tests are designed to probe your comprehension abilities and your teamworking skills. Again theres not much you can do to prepare.

If you pass the 2nd round you are informed by telephone the same evening, and I attended interview the next day. If you reach the interview stage I advise you to "know your stuff" when it comes to Eurocontrol and the single sky initiative. The interviewers also probe your personal history and general motivation for the job as well as asking some technical/maths questions. hint - know pythagoras and triangle construction!

And thats it! The selection process is by no means easy! For obvious reasons they have to place a lot of importance on your english language skils and the cleanliness of your accent, so perhaps this is somewhere you might want to concentrate on.

All in all I am very happy with the selection process, and all the people i met at Eurocontrol were friendly and willing to help. They are also very prompt at letting you know if you are successful/unsuccessful.

There was a 3 week gap between phase 1 and phase 2/3 tests for me, although for other candidates attending, that gap seemed to be much larger in some cases (up to 3 months!).

If you have any other q's, id be happy to help!

:)

[flyingsystem]

Thanks a lot SoontobeATCO! I will concentrate on English as you said and I will ask you if I need help!

[flyingsystem]

http://www.qantas.com.au/infodetail/about/employment/QTests.pdf I found another test here for some training who wants to pass the entry test for ATCO.

[fly2_ebos]

SoontobeAtco,

When will you start at Eurocontrol? Why did you choose Eurocontrol above NATS?

Do you think you need to have a high intellectual level or done certain specific studies (eg. previous aviation experience, university) to pass the FEAST/interview?

Can you tell me something more about the questions they ask on the oral board? How are the interviewers? You say they are really friendly and helpfull, can you explain some more?

What kind of attitude is allowed on the interview? Is it more important to show a lot of selfconfidence or be easy going?

thank you!

[Lon More]

Eurocontrol - Any questions, please ask

Now there´s a bold statement. After 35 years there I wouldn´t have dared to make it.
Sarcasm aside good luck with your new career They´re some of the best people you could wish to meet

[soontobeATCO]

Now there´s a bold statement. After 35 years there I wouldn´t have dared to make it.
Sarcasm aside good luck with your new career They´re some of the best people you could wish to meet

:confused:Why not? Ive been through (and been successful) in the selection process, so why not share the knowledge with others - im not saying im a fountain of knowledge on all things ATC or Eurcontrol.

Some posters on this board need to lighten up somewhat......

[Avman]

soontobeATCO (you hope), don't take it to heart. It's not really directed at you personally. Old Lon has been there and got the t-shirt and he, just like me, can experience sudden attacks of cynicism. You'll understand one day when you've notched up 35 years in the business. Good luck and have fun (whilst you can) :)

[soontobeATCO]

LOL, no worries AVMAN, I thought it would be something along those lines!!

SoontobeAtco,

When will you start at Eurocontrol? Why did you choose Eurocontrol above NATS?

Do you think you need to have a high intellectual level or done certain specific studies (eg. previous aviation experience, university) to pass the FEAST/interview?

Can you tell me something more about the questions they ask on the oral board? How are the interviewers? You say they are really friendly and helpfull, can you explain some more?

What kind of attitude is allowed on the interview? Is it more important to show a lot of selfconfidence or be easy going?

thank you!

To answer some of your questions.

As far as I know, Eurocontrol only require you to be educated to school leaver level, although as with most things in life, the more experience you have the easier it is to get such jobs. Out of the 4 of us starting on my course I know two of us have PPL's and a University degree in aviation related subjects.

I was refused entrance to NATS due to eyesight restrictions, and so that tied my hands somewhat, but in all honesty I prefer the European (and more importantly the upper level aspect) of Eurcontrol.

The interview board were all very nice people, they put you at ease etc, but of course dont forget it is an interview and there will be an element of pressure! I cant tell you whether it is important to be self-confident/outgoing etc as I dont want to be responsible for sending you in the wrong direction, but I am sure you are aware of the personal qualities required of an ATCO and the interview is your chance to get these across.

One tip I will give you is not to be afraid of realising and correcting mistakes at any point, particuarly in the numerical questions they ask you! :ugh:

I have also been told that the level of English (and cleanliness of your accent) is a very important quality, and this is something you may wish to practice?

HTH

soontobeATCO

[flyingsystem]

Hi soontobeATCO,

The date of my first test is approching very quickly (15 June), and I have some other questions.

How much time lasts the first test (each part of it)? Can you give more details about the English test?
And about the memory test, which kind of questions it is?

[soontobeATCO]

Flyingsystem,

LOL, it was some time ago now, but ill try to remember!

The FEAST tests are all computerised, and there is a maximum time limit for each element of the test (this varies with the sections) but if you wish to proceed faster, you are able to.

The tests are pretty straightforward:

-number sorting
-visualisation (making cubes from nets)
-also some basic flight planning exercises

The english tests are purely of a comprehension nature at this point - you will be given statements and have to pick a satisfactory response, recognising numbers etc.

The main thing to say is that the vast majority of the skills you will need to pass these tests are inherent, and not to stress too much about trying to learn skills in advance. The best thing you can do is have a good nights sleep the night before, arrive fresh and with a clear mind and just give it your best shot!

hth

soontobeatco

[fabrifx]

hello everyone!
I am italian I am new on this forum and I just wanted to say that I am also waiting for the eurocontrol test on June 15 so FLYINGSYSTEM, if you want, we could possibly meet up the day before or on our testing day... I will be staying there for two nights(14 and 15) at the Mercure hotel which is right near the Maastricht airport..what about you?
Anyways, I'd like know more about the first phase testing, more specifically, the strip part which is taken in the afternoon.. Do you have to update the airlane strips and avoid aircraft collisions on the screen? how many airplanes to you have to keep an eye on at the same time?
Thanx :)

[flyingsystem]

Thanks S.T.B.ATCO., it seems the English test is not too difficult, in fact I was just wondering if there are grammar questions...but its nice if its like what you said.

FABRIFX, Im from Belgium, so I will come just on the testing day. It would be very interesting if we could meet on the test day, I send you a PM with my e-mail address if you want.

You can also read the previous posts to have more details about the test.:ok:

[soontobeATCO]

hello everyone!
I am italian I am new on this forum and I just wanted to say that I am also waiting for the eurocontrol test on June 15 so FLYINGSYSTEM, if you want, we could possibly meet up the day before or on our testing day... I will be staying there for two nights(14 and 15) at the Mercure hotel which is right near the Maastricht airport..what about you?
Anyways, I'd like know more about the first phase testing, more specifically, the strip part which is taken in the afternoon.. Do you have to update the airlane strips and avoid aircraft collisions on the screen? how many airplanes to you have to keep an eye on at the same time?
Thanx :)

fabrifx,

You can only progress onto the strip exercise in the afternoon if you are successful in the morning tests - on the day I attended 5 out of 12 made it to the afternoon.

Personally I found the strip exercise to be quite good fun, it is about 45 mins in length and involves processing new aircraft, transferring traffic between RP's, modifying data, removing obselete aircraft as well as spotting conflicts between traffic.

It is entirely computerised and information is given via a headset. My best tip is to remain calm and continually check all of the aircraft. You are given plenty of time to practice all of the test elements before you begin.

Good luck :)

[fabrifx]

thanx soontobeATCO..
I read it on the depliant they sent me that just the people who pass the morning tests will go on to the second tests.. but is the second part just a normal exercise or is it taken into account for the assessment tests, I mean, if you pass in the morning, is it automatically sure you will be called for the second phase testing a few weeks later?
What exactly is number/shape sorting? they tell you, click on all the red squares for example?
Is there also diagramming?abstract reasoning(numbr or figure series)?
thanx for your help! C ya up there in Maastricht hopefully! :)

[soontobeATCO]

thanx soontobeATCO..
I read it on the depliant they sent me that just the people who pass the morning tests will go on to the second tests.. but is the second part just a normal exercise or is it taken into account for the assessment tests, I mean, if you pass in the morning, is it automatically sure you will be called for the second phase testing a few weeks later?
What exactly is number/shape sorting? they tell you, click on all the red squares for example?
Is there also diagramming?abstract reasoning(numbr or figure series)?
thanx for your help! C ya up there in Maastricht hopefully! :)

Fabrifx,

To answer your question: Im not sure!

I think the afternoon tests will be very important -but im not in a position to tell you for sure.

The number/shape sorting is just as it sounds. Sorting numbers and shapes into groups as directed by a statement on the screen. Easy to start with but it gets harder as you progress:8

There is an abstract reasoning test: Making cubes from nets - straightforward and predictably impossible stuff ;)

hth

[fabrifx]

soontobeATCO, your help is very useful...
tell me if i'm right..when you're doing the number /shape sorting, it's easy at the beginning cause you just have to follow one statmenet... as u go ahead, they give u more statements and u have to remember all of them, not just the last one, right?
in your case, to make it even harder, did they put two different categories, for example numbers and shapes together, on the same screen so that as you proceeded with the exercise, you were given one new statement for the numbers and a new statement for the shapes?? After a bit, it should drive you nuts :)
Last question, there isn't even one exercise on number series, or shape series or some diagramming?? What do u do in there for 4 hours!??!

p.s about the spatial reasoning test, do u have an open cube and 4 possible closed cubes or u have one closed cube and 4 possible opened ones??

[Lon More]

I've been following this thread, and similar ones, for some time and think youre heading the wrong way. It's all about your suitability to train as an controller, not just pass the tests.
These just weed out the totally unsuitable. Those who might do well go through to the next stage and interviews.
But even if you succeed, and are offered a place at IANS, that's only the beginning.
There is a lot of classroom theory to digest - failure to make progress can lead to termination. As can poor performance in the simulator.
But this is only the beginning. At Maastricht we sometimes had the feeling that unsuitable candidates were being pushed through just to keep the numbers up.
Again you will go into the simulator, this time simulating the sector group you will train in. This time not just with instructors, but also actual controllers ne of the things that will be watched very closely is your ability to function as a member of a team It's very much a question of how you fit in. It may seem harsh, but don't forget, you have to function with some ofthese people for the rest of your career.
Now, hould you have come this far, the really difficult phase begins. Working with live traffic. Real aircraft containing live people. Some trainees just can't get round this responsibility and crash out now.

Throughout your training you will be subjected to constant monitoring, monthly written reports, by your Trainer and Training Officer, at Maastricht will be made - hopefully not too many unsolvable problems will be discovered here. However, if there are, again the recommendation can be made to terminate training.

I hope I haven't rained too much on your parade but, as was earlier pointed out, I haven't just got the T shirt, I probably designed it as well. I was one of the original Ab Initio 1 trainees, before we even moved to Maastricht, and eventually retired a couple of years ago as a supervisor.
With a bit of luck you will get through, and despite recent happenings, it is still a very rewarding and interesting career. It's a damn sight better than having to work for a living. Good luck

[flyingsystem]

FabriFx, check this, it is very interesting!
http://freespace.virgin.net/at.co/atco/resources/EUROCONTROL.doc

[soontobeATCO]

I've been following this thread, and similar ones, for some time and think youre heading the wrong way. It's all about your suitability to train as an controller, not just pass the tests.
These just weed out the totally unsuitable. Those who might do well go through to the next stage and interviews.
But even if you succeed, and are offered a place at IANS, that's only the beginning.
There is a lot of classroom theory to digest - failure to make progress can lead to termination. As can poor performance in the simulator.
But this is only the beginning. At Maastricht we sometimes had the feeling that unsuitable candidates were being pushed through just to keep the numbers up.
Again you will go into the simulator, this time simulating the sector group you will train in. This time not just with instructors, but also actual controllers ne of the things that will be watched very closely is your ability to function as a member of a team It's very much a question of how you fit in. It may seem harsh, but don't forget, you have to function with some ofthese people for the rest of your career.
Now, hould you have come this far, the really difficult phase begins. Working with live traffic. Real aircraft containing live people. Some trainees just can't get round this responsibility and crash out now.

Throughout your training you will be subjected to constant monitoring, monthly written reports, by your Trainer and Training Officer, at Maastricht will be made - hopefully not too many unsolvable problems will be discovered here. However, if there are, again the recommendation can be made to terminate training.

I hope I haven't rained too much on your parade but, as was earlier pointed out, I haven't just got the T shirt, I probably designed it as well. I was one of the original Ab Initio 1 trainees, before we even moved to Maastricht, and eventually retired a couple of years ago as a supervisor.
With a bit of luck you will get through, and despite recent happenings, it is still a very rewarding and interesting career. It's a damn sight better than having to work for a living. Good luck

Thanks Lon More,

It is really interesting to hear from someone who has 'been there and done that'.

I hope you dont think that I was suggesting that the selection tests are the 'be all and end all' of everything, because of course they are not, but nevertheless they are the first important hurdle to overcome!

I heard from the HR section @ MUAC that the failure rate during training is around 40%, which speaks volumes for how hard it must be! But im a glass half full person, im committed to giving this opportunity my best shot and cant wait to start pushing some tin!

[Number2]

Nothing I hate more than people using the expression 'pushing tin' - it sounds so.......naff!

I remember a student on my course at Hurn who, post-run shouted "wow, I really pushed tin there" - what a fool!

[soontobeATCO]

Nothing I hate more than people using the expression 'pushing tin' - it sounds so.......naff!

I remember a student on my course at Hurn who, post-run shouted "wow, I really pushed tin there" - what a fool!

Great!...... thanks for sharing.

Any other amazing insights you wish to bestow upon us:p

[flyingsystem]

BTW Sootobeatco, when will you start the course at Luxemburg?

[soontobeATCO]

BTW Sootobeatco, when will you start the course at Luxemburg?


Quite soon :eek:

[flyingsystem]

Quite soon :eek:
I was just wondering if there is precise date, anyway good luck for your new career:ok:!

[fabrifx]

As I read on the eurocontrol.int web site, there will be a course beginning in July and another one in November 2006 but the exact day isn't specified.
SoontobeATCO, if u have time, could you kindly answer my questions I posted this morning so you can solve my last doubts before I'll go for the adventure in a few days??
thanx :)

[soontobeATCO]

soontobeATCO, your help is very useful...
tell me if i'm right..when you're doing the number /shape sorting, it's easy at the beginning cause you just have to follow one statmenet... as u go ahead, they give u more statements and u have to remember all of them, not just the last one, right?
in your case, to make it even harder, did they put two different categories, for example numbers and shapes together, on the same screen so that as you proceeded with the exercise, you were given one new statement for the numbers and a new statement for the shapes?? After a bit, it should drive you nuts :)
Last question, there isn't even one exercise on number series, or shape series or some diagramming?? What do u do in there for 4 hours!??!

p.s about the spatial reasoning test, do u have an open cube and 4 possible closed cubes or u have one closed cube and 4 possible opened ones??

With the sorting test, yes they combine different colours and shapes, and also with specific statements telling you what to do. They start easy and get harder! Its the same with the numbers test.

For the cubes there is one closed cube and 4 or 5 open ones.

Just to re-iterate there is really not much you can do to prepare, i didnt do any prep for the tests apart from getting good nights sleep. Go in with an open mind and ready to perform.

I think I remember them saying that you are awarded 'points' for each section of the tests and it is your final point score that determines your success, so if you do badly in one section you can make up for it in the next. I feel certain that I performed poorly in the cubes test, but then again I suppose I cant have done terribly.

good luck!

[niknak]

STB ATCO

Whilst your exuberance is perfectly understandable, this isn't Hollywood or a computer simualtion.
Prior to "pushing tin" you will have to work harder than you ever done in your life just to maintain the required level of competency throughout the course, then, if you have qualified, you have the small matter of validating and maintaining that competency.
I can assure that if you do make it, use of the phrase "pushing tin" or any similar expressions will earn you "dork status" amongst all your colleagues.

I wish you the best of luck, but calm down, keep your head down and gob shut. :ok:

[soontobeATCO]

STB ATCO

Whilst your exuberance is perfectly understandable, this isn't Hollywood or a computer simualtion.
Prior to "pushing tin" you will have to work harder than you ever done in your life just to maintain the required level of competency throughout the course, then, if you have qualified, you have the small matter of validating and maintaining that competency.
I can assure that if you do make it, use of the phrase "pushing tin" or any similar expressions will earn you "dork status" amongst all your colleagues.

I wish you the best of luck, but calm down, keep your head down and gob shut. :ok:

Niknak,

Whilst I appreciate that your post is (probably) well intentioned id like to point out I do not think that this will be a walk in the park! Im quite aware of the fact that this is going to be a bloody hard slog and theres a significant chance I wont make it.

I really dont want to sound like a miserable sod, but I just get the impression that you think im some sort of spotty teenage geek fresh out of school with no idea of what lies ahead of me, this is definately not the case!

The point of this thread was to try and give some hints and tips to anyone who might be taking the tests in the future, in the same way the NATS thread has done.

cheers

[fabrifx]

With the sorting test, yes they combine different colours and shapes, and also with specific statements telling you what to do. They start easy and get harder! Its the same with the numbers test.

For the cubes there is one closed cube and 4 or 5 open ones.

Just to re-iterate there is really not much you can do to prepare, i didnt do any prep for the tests apart from getting good nights sleep. Go in with an open mind and ready to perform.

I think I remember them saying that you are awarded 'points' for each section of the tests and it is your final point score that determines your success, so if you do badly in one section you can make up for it in the next. I feel certain that I performed poorly in the cubes test, but then again I suppose I cant have done terribly.

good luck!
thanx soontobeatco, very clear like always!
As to the others who posted in this forum, I'd like to remember that the reason of this thread was to help out and give advice to people like me who still have to undergo the selection process.. I don't understand what's the use talkin about how hard the course will be or how difficult it will be to become an atc when we still don't know if we'll get in.. one step at a time!I don't really care about the course at this moment,if it's difficult or not. I just wanna concentrate on the tests. Soontobeatco is a helping person who wants to share his test experience with us and I thank him for that....:)

[rafacans]

thanx soontobeatco, very clear like always!
As to the others who posted in this forum, I'd like to remember that the reason of this thread was to help out and give advice to people like me who still have to undergo the selection process.. I don't understand what's the use talkin about how hard the course will be or how difficult it will be to become an atc when we still don't know if we'll get in.. one step at a time!I don't really care about the course at this moment,if it's difficult or not. I just wanna concentrate on the tests. Soontobeatco is a helping person who wants to share his test experience with us and I thank him for that....:)

Hi fabrifx, I'm also going to Maastricht the 13th June, so if u want we could meet up at the mercure hotel that day. I'm quite lost about this, but thanks to soontobeatco and some others, i know something more about the tests.:D

[flyingsystem]

Hi fabrifx, I'm also going to Maastricht the 13th June, so if u want we could meet up at the mercure hotel that day. I'm quite lost about this, but thanks to soontobeatco and some others, i know something more about the tests.:D On 13th June? Is it not on 15th June? Anyway I think you made a small mistake, So we will be three for this test (I mean from this forum)! Hope we will meet...and pass the test!

[fabrifx]

Hi fabrifx, I'm also going to Maastricht the 13th June, so if u want we could meet up at the mercure hotel that day. I'm quite lost about this, but thanks to soontobeatco and some others, i know something more about the tests.:D

As flyingsystem said, you probably made a mistake on the day because we have the exam june 15... and you??
however i'm getting my plane the 14th so I'll be in Maastricht(Mercure hotel) the 14th,15th and then I'm leaving the 16th.. if u also have the tests these days, we can meet up wednesday afternoon at the hotel!Let me know..
C ya! :)

[TrafficTraffic]

LOL,

Hollywood, Pushing Tin.......

Lon Talk to them will you - giving advice - how helpful of them.

TT

[Radar]

Yeah ..... but after Pushing Tin came the sequel Rude Awakening :}

[rafacans]

On 13th June? Is it not on 15th June? Anyway I think you made a small mistake, So we will be three for this test (I mean from this forum)! Hope we will meet...and pass the test!

I think I didn't make any mistake... in the information they sent to me they said the phase 1 selection testing is on Wednesday, 14 June and I should present there at 9:00am, and my reservation is for 2 nights, the 13 and 14... I don't think there should be another test the next day... that's a bit strange, isn't it?? Anyway, could u please check the information they sent to u both and then let me know, ok??:bored:

laters

[TrafficTraffic]

These guys cant even figure out when they are supposed to start - they'll be in MUAC management b4 you know it!


TT

[Moira]

I don't understand what's the use talkin about how hard the course will be or how difficult it will be to become an atc when we still don't know if we'll get in.. one step at a time!I don't really care about the course at this moment,if it's difficult or not.

How about that if you are already keeping your eyes closed for the fact that this kind of training courses is :mad: difficult, you might just as well leave the training position to someone who realy DOES care about the course?

[fabrifx]

oh my god..people actually think they are gods here...get off the tree u guys climbed... Is it the job that make you histerical?? I think I'm a calm,polite person with good manners who doesn't offend anybody and just to remind everyone again, this thread is meant to give advice for the preselection tests, that's it... no one is talking about the after... no soccer team talks about winning the world cup before reaching the finals and actually winning it.

to rafacans: no, there is no mistake, they simply do more tests a month..when I was called, they invited me to the test of June 12(today) but I had problems so we decided for the 15...

to traffictraffic: I'd appreciate if u avoid stupid comments. They're not needed and are useless in this forum Thank you.

to moira: first of all, if I need an advice I'll ask u for one, so there's no need to tell me to leave the training position. second of all I'm realistic, and I don't want to take a step longer than my leg(it's an italian saying, don't know it in english so I hope you understand it), that's why I said I don't care in this moment about the course... I'm a university student studying biotechnologies(don't start saying why become an ATCO..I know my stuff) and I won the preselection test to get in, and I always studied many hours a day+ exams+experiments+laboratories.. I'm not afraid of this course..if I'll be fit to do it, I'll succeed in becoming an ATC and I'm sure I'll put my very best because I really want to become an ATCO but if I won't, AMEN. My life will continue anyways and I'll always be proud of myself..

[Lon More]

Fabrifix Calm down. If you think the job makes you "Histerical" (sic) then you really should be looking elsewhere.
The title of this thread is perhaps a bit arrogant.You all have questions about Eurocontrol, but, as wannabes you are in no position to have the full picture.A number of people who actually know what they are talking about have joined in.
TT ( now living a quiet life elsewhere) was an instructor at IANS and also a valued colleague at Maastricht)
The lovely Moira makes a very valid point. It's not about notches on your gun. It will take a lot of determination on your part to get through, if you don't want it 100% try something else. There will be an enormous investment, financially and timewise, made in you. We don't want to see it go to waste.


no soccer team talks about winning the world cup before reaching the finals and actually winning it.


The Engerland team does:p

[TrafficTraffic]

TT ( now living a quiet life elsewhere) was an instructor at IANS and also a valued colleague at Maastricht)


....careful Lon - you wouldnt tell Lex Luthor that Clark Kent was Superman would you???

I dont know about the quiet life bit :ugh:


Why dont you just leave your name here so you can get some 'special' treatment?

TT

[fabrifx]

Fabrifix Calm down. If you think the job makes you "Histerical" (sic) then you really should be looking elsewhere.
The title of this thread is perhaps a bit arrogant.You all have questions about Eurocontrol, but, as wannabes you are in no position to have the full picture.A number of people who actually know what they are talking about have joined in.
TT ( now living a quiet life elsewhere) was an instructor at IANS and also a valued colleague at Maastricht)
The lovely Moira makes a very valid point. It's not about notches on your gun. It will take a lot of determination on your part to get through, if you don't want it 100% try something else. There will be an enormous investment, financially and timewise, made in you. We don't want to see it go to waste.

fabrifx: "no soccer team talks about winning the world cup before reaching the finals and actually winning it."

The Engerland team does:p

You are totally right saying that it will be diificult and that we'll have to sweat hard to obtain something, but the only thing I was trying saying is that I really want to become an ATCO(more than 100% :) sure ) but I don't think it is the right time to think about the course..when and IF I will be lucky(and smart) enough to pass all 4 test phases, then I will start realising how my life will change and start learning what my responsibilities will be and the effort it will take me to become a good ATCO. I'm a very calm person and I don't like talking too much in advance, because it'll seem that I 'm arrogant and presumptuous and this isn't me!!

By the way, i don't know why the english bookmakers say the final will be Italy-Brazil and quote italy's victory 1.4 and Brazil 1.5...I'm italian but after all the scandals that are coming out lately, I don't think we deserve it at all!! :)

[Lon More]

Why dont you just leave your name here so you can get some 'special' treatment?

Moi? Don't tell the belle étage.

Thought the "valued colleague" would throw them off the track ;)

[Scott Voigt]

Yeah the movies got it wrong, we don't call it pushing tin over here. It is pushing metal... :) But no matter... Good luck to all of you who are trying to become controllers. It is a GREAT profession only lowered by some of the dolts in managment and government who have NO CLUE as to what is really going on and only look at the short term solutions since they are not going to be along long term to deal with it <G>...:ugh:

Oh and for those of you who say one step at a time, you are correct, that is what it takes, just keep working really hard and start your team work early while in school so that you learn together. It is easier that way. Remember too that once you get behind, catching up is nearly impossible. Almost like working traffic <G>...

Take care

Scott

[miki kv]

soontobeATCO thank you for this thread.
I am going to take feast test next week.
How much time will i have for each part of the test,and how many questions are there (cubes,diagrammes,numeric reasoning etc.) ?
Does anybody know exactly? :ugh:

[flyingsystem]

soontobeATCO thank you for this thread.
I am going to take feast test next week.
How much time will i have for each part of the test,and how many questions are there (cubes,diagrammes,numeric reasoning etc.) ?
Does anybody know exactly? :ugh:
You' ll have about 1.45~02.00 hrs for the first in the morning, but you have to do each exercise in a defined time.
The afternoon, for the "strips test", you will have 1;30hrs training and then 35 min for the test itself.

[fabrifx]

flyingsystem, didn't the lady that tested us say that the selections for june were gonna take place from monday june 12 til friday the 16(today).. I might be mistaken but that's what I think I heard, although I admit that I was concentarted more on the exercises than on what she said.. the important is that everything went the way I hoped :)...
The tests are hard but I expected them to be worse, I don't know why but I was not stressed at all at the end and I was fresh and clean that night for some beers at Maastricht center :)..I don't know how the stripping part went, since I never studied those things, but I really liked the exercises of the first part.. the shape sorting was the best, I think I did that very well together with the cubes, the memory numbers and flight directions..
I don't wanna talk to early cause I don't know how I did the second part but anyways it was a really nice experience and its a great place with nice people. Hopefully the dream will go on...
by the ways, thanks soontobeatco..did they let u know anything for the second/third phase?? they should take place together in the middle of july..

[flyingsystem]

Yes Fabrifx, I think you are right, she said that there is a test each day of this week. But anyway I responded to Miki Kv.

It was really a nice experience, but it seems to me that I will not pass the second part...dont know why:ugh:, but I wait the result.
Btw when will they send the results? I just hope that it'll be quick!!!
I hope we'll meet again in July for the next part;)!

[fabrifx]

Yes Fabrifx, I think you are right, she said that there is a test each day of this week. But anyway I responded to Miki Kv.

It was really a nice experience, but it seems to me that I will not pass the second part...dont know why:ugh:, but I wait the result.
Btw when will they send the results? I just hope that it'll be quick!!!
I hope we'll meet again in July for the next part;)!
They guy said they will send us the info on monday by mail so I guess we'll recieve it after a few days...
I'm not so sure about the second part either, I didn't find any opposite conflicts cause it was too hard and it was the first time I ever saw air traffic exercises but I found about 4-5 local conflicts and then I never had to get the voice repeat the info on the strip when we had to update the time and the altitude.. however I discarded most strips a bit late so I don't know how I did overall.. lets see next week! C ya!

[bmontalto]

Hi STBATCO,

I've only recently been given the link to this thread and it seems to be a rather helpful insight as to what is tested. I have successfully completed my morning tests and moved to the pleasant afternoon test where we got to play a small part of the 'role' of an ATC. I thoroughly enjoyed that test and wished it were longer! I had identified about 3 opposing conflicts, a number of local conflicts and at the same time arranged the aircraft in chronological order while listening out for the announcements. The removal of obsolete aircraft was an easy operation too.

I must say that the testing was somewhat intense and I found myself sweating profusely all the time, but it was more of an anxiety issue that I assume we all get during testing and examination periods. I went unprepared and with barely 4hours of sleep that night as I was stranded at the train station the night of my arrival (clear thinking got me to the hotel, else I'd have spent the night sleeping on a bench and missing the tests completely)! As you said only 5 make it through from 12 to the afternoon period. I guess most fail the morning session due to English standards. It is rather obvious that each and every ATC is required to have complete control over the English language and must proficient in its use.

STBATCO, I have the following questions if you could be so kind to answer:

How long is it till you receive the (e)mail from EUROCONTROL notifying your success/failure to move on to phase 2 testing?
What exactly goes on in the Phase 2 testing? You mentioned a teamwork test in the morning I believe, followed by an interview. Could you explain the morning tests a bit more please?
Regarding the interview, if I understood you correctly you said that you know your assigned time within the same day upon successfully passing the morning tests. Is that so?
What in general is asked during the interview? Could you expand a bit more on the mathematical questions please?I must say that I am very motivated to become an ATC. Aviation is my life, it flows through my blood. I live and breathe the air I'd like to fly in! Had I more money I'd have become an airline pilot, but as life would have it, I'm not the richest person around and cannot afford to pay the thousands of Euros necessary for lessons and flight hours in order to achieve the ATPL. I'm not put off at the thought of the 'hard' course after the testing as I'd be studying topics that would highly interest me. I regard the careers in aviation as a hobby rather than a job and thus I couldn't really care less about the salary - but this doesn't mean that I don't need one :) My only hope is that I will be successful. I am determined, now more than ever, to be so.

Hope to hear from you soon!

Regards and best of luck to all of you ;)

[fabrifx]

As you said only 5 make it through from 12 to the afternoon period. I guess most fail the morning session due to English standards. It is rather obvious that each and every ATC is required to have complete control over the English language and must proficient in its use.

the number of people who make it to the afternoon isn't five but it dipends on how many people get a specific score..it can happen that no one passes as it could be that all 12 go on to the afternoon... I did my test thursday, June 15 and 5 passed..A girl told me that on monday she was the only one who passed out of 12 and another guy told me that on wednesday, six passed!

[fabrifx]

I was sleeping this morning and I recieved a phone call that just makes you start the day in such a good mood.. I was told that I had been successfull in both tests the other day and I was invited to the second phase on july 12!!!! who else has been called for that day?? C ya all...:O

[bmontalto]

the number of people who make it to the afternoon isn't five but it dipends on how many people get a specific score..it can happen that no one passes as it could be that all 12 go on to the afternoon... I did my test thursday, June 15 and 5 passed..A girl told me that on monday she was the only one who passed out of 12 and another guy told me that on wednesday, six passed!

Fabrifx, I think I remember you :) We had the test on the same day I believe. I just got called by Eurocontrol today this morning saying I was successful and am now off to my Phase 2 testing shortly in July :D

I really hope that I make it though as aviation is really what I live for.

Cheers

[fabrifx]

Fabrifx, I think I remember you :) We had the test on the same day I believe. I just got called by Eurocontrol today this morning saying I was successful and am now off to my Phase 2 testing shortly in July :D

I really hope that I make it though as aviation is really what I live for.

Cheers
wait a sec, where are you from? I had the tests thursday june 15..we were 5(+1 girl that passed monday so 6 total).. there was an italian(me!), a bulgarian, a swedish, two belgian, and a hollish.. which one them were u??! Anyways I have the 2 phase test on july 12.. and u bmontalto?
good luck and cheers! :ok:

[Widger]

To all you wannabees, don't forget there is another (although slightly less lucrative) option here! http://www.royal-navy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.4995

[Lon More]

Widger not really an option for most of the people posting here as they are not UK nationals.

[bmontalto]

wait a sec, where are you from? I had the tests thursday june 15..we were 5(+1 girl that passed monday so 6 total).. there was an italian(me!), a bulgarian, a swedish, two belgian, and a hollish.. which one them were u??! Anyways I have the 2 phase test on july 12.. and u bmontalto?
good luck and cheers! :ok:

A slight oversight from my side fabrifx!! I had my test on June 14th not June 15th and we had an Italian with us whom I thought was you :) Ooops! I was also called today and have my testing on July 12th so I guess we still get to meet then :ok:

Cheers and see you!

[Krikke]

Hi Fabrifx,

I also passed my first phase and I'll have to go back the 10th of July! If they are good enough I'll have my third phase on the 12th, 13th or 14th of July...

Good luck to all!

[miki kv]

Flyingsystem - thank you mate. Fabrifx and others well done! :D
1.memory numbers - is that in the morning test,what is it?
2.Fabrifx can you explain each step of the strip test and what you need to do beside avoid colisions?
Thank you and good luck to all!

[fabrifx]

Flyingsystem - thank you mate. Fabrifx and others well done! :D
1.memory numbers - is that in the morning test,what is it?
2.Fabrifx can you explain each step of the strip test and what you need to do beside avoid colisions?
Thank you and good luck to all!
when are you having the tests?? and are you applying for the recruitment of the student ATC for eurocontrol?
basically, you'll have 5 things to do 1)update strips 2)order the strips 3)eliminate old strips 4)insert new strips 5)detect different types of collisions.
these 5 points are all equally important, so you have to keep an eye at all of them every time.. you'll have plenty of time to study the theory before testing(before the tests, I didn't even know what were collisions or strips because I don't have an aeronautic background at all, so do not worry too much..)...now that I know 1/10000% of what an ATC will have to know and do, I feel better!! :O

memory tests? they say 7-8 digit numbers, even with decimal points and then u have to remember them...

ciao

[obeq]

wait a sec, where are you from? I had the tests thursday june 15..we were 5(+1 girl that passed monday so 6 total).. there was an italian(me!), a bulgarian, a swedish, two belgian, and a hollish.. which one them were u??! Anyways I have the 2 phase test on july 12.. and u bmontalto?
good luck and cheers! :ok:

The Swede here. Also coming back, is assigned july 11. I probably can't make it though, so it's September for me.

Anyway, see you around, hopefully when the training starts... ;)


o

[Krikke]

Hi O!

Great news! Good luck to you in september! The good thing is you can have information about the phases out of first hand from us ;-)

Cya,
Krikke