Alternative Careers

[cdb]

Any suggestions for a friend who desperately wants to work in ATC but can't pass the medical? He's currently an assistant and interested in ATC engineering.

Can anyone offer any advice about how to get into ATC engineering or make some other suggestions? He's a graduate but not an engineering graduate.

Thanks!

[qcode]

Try the NATS website, they have a constant recruitment drive for ATCO's and ATE's.

[cdb]

Thanks gcode, but I'm looking more for some idea of how one becomes an ATCE, I guess in particular non-NATS. Is there a set of exams to take or does it have to be done as a NATS/millitary apprenticeship.

[niknak]

Suggest he contacts the Senior Air Traffic Engineer at his local airport for advice, check your PMs.

[Dungeon dweller]

There is a new recruitment drive for Trainee Engineers. Look on the nats website - www.nats.co.uk and then select the careers option. There is a new scheme starting - close date is 30th August 2006!!.
Good Luck!

[eglnyt]

I don't want to be negative but NATS is recruiting graduate engineers which it intends to turn into Chartered Engineers. If your degree is not recognised by the Engineering Council then you won't make it past the paper sift.

In general to stand any chance of employment as an ATCE nowadays you will need some form of engineering training and a recognised engineering qualification such as HNC or BTEC. In practice you will also need several years practical experience on systems similar to those used in the ATM business. Unless your local airport happens to be unusually charitable any chance of ab-initio entry disappeared in the mid 80s when NATS terminated it's apprenticeship scheme.

[Flaps ten please]

From the NATS website re: Engineering Technician Scheme
To be qualified to HNC/BTEC/Foundation Degree level in an electronic/mechanical/software discipline, with strong interpersonal and communication skills. You need to be self motivated with a responsible and mature attitude, be able to make sound decisions, and respond quickly and proactively to change. Be able to meet the colour vision standards as defined by NATS medical branch. Some posts require short term visits to other NATS units so you must be willing to travel. A current driving license would be useful.