Tower Position: Control Tower Operator` License

[nascargeek21]

I'm planning to become an air traffic controller in the U.S. (after I finish college and grad school). I looked on the FAA website and saw that if you wanted to do the Tower position (which I do), you need a Control Tower Operator License. Will the FAA help you get this, or do you have to get it on your own? And do you get it during or after your training with the FAA?

[trafficnotsighted]

Nascar - try the "STUCKMIC" website, its full of info about ATC in the USA.

[Mike_Retired_ATC]

Having a CTO improves your chances of being hired by the FAA but is by no means a requirement for employment. From what I've read the majority of the colleges that have CTI (ATC) programs do not provide the graduates with a CTO certification.

Once you get into the hiring pool the best recommendation that I can offer is to accept whatever position that the FAA offers so you can get your foot into the door.

Like someone mentioned check out StuckMic dot com because there is a lot of discussions about getting hired by the FAA.