Eurocontrol - Any questions, please ask!
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Eurocontrol - Any questions, please ask!
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
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
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Congrats "soontobeATCO"
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.
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.
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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!
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!
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http://www.qantas.com.au/infodetail/...ent/QTests.pdf I found another test here for some training who wants to pass the entry test for ATCO.
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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!
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!
More than just an ATCO
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Eurocontrol - Any questions, please ask
Sarcasm aside good luck with your new career They´re some of the best people you could wish to meet
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Originally Posted by Lon More
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
Sarcasm aside good luck with your new career They´re some of the best people you could wish to meet
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......
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)
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LOL, no worries AVMAN, I thought it would be something along those lines!!
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!
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
Originally Posted by 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!
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!
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!
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
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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?
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?
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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
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
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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
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
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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.
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.
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Originally Posted by 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
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
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
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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!
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!
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Originally Posted by 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!
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!
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
There is an abstract reasoning test: Making cubes from nets - straightforward and predictably impossible stuff
hth
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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??
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??
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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
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
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FabriFx, check this, it is very interesting!
http://freespace.virgin.net/at.co/at...UROCONTROL.doc
http://freespace.virgin.net/at.co/at...UROCONTROL.doc