Hi to All & ATC Academy
 

Hi All,
I would firstly like to say congrats to all the get through and sorry to all that don't. Its tough but rewarding from my experience so far.

I would also like to thank Kieran17 and KiwiChick. Your posts have been very informative, as have everyone elses.

I attended the ATC Testing Day in Brisbane last week. Feel pretty good but won't know until I get told. I know they have a reference check however from here can be another 3-4 weeks. By the look of some posts, even longer. Patience is the key.

Fingers crossed I am accepted to the Brisbane Academy due to family requirements (young family) but if Melbourne is the only option then the bags will be packed and off I go. Hopefully can organise some accomodation??

I really just wanted to say hi, introduce myself and make myself available.
I am really looking forward to attending the academy and busting those books hard. I know it will be a hard slog, but easy is not rewarding.
Also loooking forward to speaking and meeting like minded people that I hopefuly will be training and working with (fingers crossed)

Regards
MIK
:ok:

Anyone heard back from their referees yet?

If our referees have been contacted by ASA (and our referees give a positive feedback), is it pretty much guaranteed that we have made it through?

Also wondering if anyone who was recently in the academy, or currently in the academy can give their own personal experiences? I've read this entire thread, and I know there has been several posts with people's experiences, but I guess it won't hurt to have more/other perspective.

I am most worried about the passing rate within the academy; where only around 50-70% of students pass. Perhaps I am getting cold-feet; but the thought of quitting my job and moving interstate, and spend 1 year studying only to find out that I 'don't have it in me' is gut-wrenching.

To those that have done the course, and seen people who didn't 'make it' or 'didn't have it in them'; what exactly did they not have? I know we talk about having a natural ability to be an ATC, but can you guys give a more specific trait/skill/ability that they lacked?

Is it:
- their lack of motivation to study/learn the theory
- their ability to remember information; eg. rules, laws, etc
- their lack of calculation/maths skills (not sure if this is important)
- their lack of ability to visualize things spatially/3d
- their ability to think on their feet/ make quick decisions

I guess I would just like to know why some students fail/dropout; other than the generic reasons of 'just didn't have it in them to be an ATC'.

Hi Liabella,

I also would have to move to Melbourne if accepted. I have been waiting a while after applying for the testing day, and debated this before applying to be an ATC. It will be a major uproot for me to move, but I really really want to do this for life!
All the best of luck, our accessors said they were attempting to get smaller turn around times than previous years, when they estimated 4 weeks I would guess they are pulling all strings possible to not have 2 month wait times any more :)
It is very hard to sit and wait, but I don't think emailing them and pestering them would help any, so we all must squirm in our seats for 4+ weeks :(

Liabella, check your PMs....

WooHoo
 

Just got the call saying that I was accepted. WooHoo!!!

Djhaslett - thanks for the PM. Just shot you an email.

Fingers crossed i can get into the Brisbane Academy, but by the sounds of it it will be Melbourne. Now comes the first challenge of finding accomodation close by and also making sure the family is provided for in Brisbane, if I have to go to Melbourne.

Perfectly natural to feel this. Gut-wrenching it undoubtedly would be, but putting it brutally it's simply something you're going to have to deal with along the way. Your quoted pass rate is pretty close to what happened on my course and anecdotally is probably not far off the mark overall. The following may help a bit, bearing in mind I'm writing from an enroute perspective.

What was lacking in those who fell by the wayside in my course? Your list is pretty close to the mark:
Those who have trouble motivating themselves for studying will not pass the initial theory component, simple as that. I think, having been selected, moved to Melbourne and gotten stuck into it, most of my course had already invested enough in the 'idea' of being an ATC that this was not an issue (at least initially). Later on, as the course dragged on a little, some people did lose this motivation but overall, it's probably the one thing that is entirely in your conscious control. So you put up with it and do the work, or you do not finish the course.
There is a LOT to remember, yes. The things you use every day become easy before too long but you will need to dig deep into the back of your brain every so often to come up with something different. Lots of practice - extra sim runs and so on - help solidify a lot of the content in your mind, so you can to some extent control this one too.
Not as important as you might think (at least it isn't where I ended up), but you might need to be able to think in sixes, and multiples thereof. Another easy one to fix yourself!
I'd add a fourth dimension there too - time. Things never stop moving in this job. This one's a harder factor to control yourself. ATC is very much a unique job and the skillset needed for it isn't really found anywhere else. This is one that you won't really know til you have a go at it.
I'd call this one 'flexibility' - ie you need a Plan A, but if that doesn't work, you also need a Plan C, D, E and sometimes F too. The flexibility bit is the ability to shift between those plans seamlessly when required. And sometimes you will make the wrong decision - rather than sitting there thinking 'hope no-one noticed' (I guarantee your instructors, both in the college and in the field, will have noticed), FIX IT!! Then move on. You may have to sit there looking a bit silly for the moment, but that beats a smoking hole in the ground.

So, really, most of the factors you've mentioned are very much within your control. A failure for one of those reasons is, brutally, entirely youir problem. As for the rest? I don't think it's really a case of 'you either have it or you don't.' Some people have a certain amount of natural ability and that helps, but the rest of it can be learned - through hard work, practice, humility, patience and an ability to laugh at yourself occasionally.

Bear in mind the aim is to get a rating - not to simply finish the course. You think the college is tough? Watch the learning curve go vertical when you get into the field. I've seen a not insignificant number of people come out of the college and fail final field checks (one was from my course). But at the end of it, it is possible for people to get through. Hey, they even gave ME a rating! Livin' the dream, and all that. Hang in there.

BST

Thanks for your input BigSkyTheory, really appreciate it!

Just curious, out of the people of pass the college, how many fail their final fields check?

Did most students who fail/get drop from the college know it? - eg. they find themselves struggling with the theory/sim, or do most of them think they are doing fairly well, and then suddenly they get told by the instructors that they have to pack their bags?

I think I should stop worrying, and just jump in and make the best of it.

It won't be sudden, you get regular reviews in the sim and you generally get the tap on the shoulder when you've been 'at risk' several times in a row. You'll know if you're not making the grade and there are usually options, like recoursing or extra sim runs. It really depends on the individual.

In my case, I chose to leave because I was struggling and knew it was just going to get harder. I got through the theory okay, with lots of studying in the evenings and weekends. Once I got to the sims I just couldn't keep up with the pace. I was forgetting phraseology, missing possible conflicts, you name it, it all added up to me getting further and further behind in each sim run. Once I started going to work with a knot in my stomach, I knew it was time to go.

ACT online test
 

Hi mates, I was happy to be short listed by the recruitment team and finished my online test with full of excitement but that wasn't long. Got result next day about not been competent. Did anyone faced that I know test is not tough but time limit make u nervous. Do they review result and recall to sit for another go.:cool:

As an experienced controller I'd say that is the killer. Most of the other things mentioned become evident early on and can be addressed to a degree by self application but it's how the whole package comes together at the end under real pressure that counts. It isn't always evident until that pressure is applied that there's a problem.

20% +/-

ACT online test
 

Hi Konsalgs,

I did the online test last night. I thought I totally botched one of the sections, I accidentally skipped the practice questions on that one and then didn't know what to expect when the questions came up. In the end looks like I did better than I thought as I got an email this morning to book my phone interview. So tracking well so far.

assessment centre brissie
 

Hi Guys,

I also attended the assesment centre in brissie recently (9th) and really unsure how I did, (pretty average in the maths stuff im sure!) not sure about the sim, I had to be reminded a few times on how I worded things. Hopefully we hear back soon. interested to know if anyone from those 3 days has heard anything.

Accomodation and Transport - Enroute Course July 1
 

Hi All,

I have been accepted to the Enroute Course in Melbourne commencing 1 July 2013.

While i don't like my chnaces I am hoping that I may get placed in Brisbane even if it starts later. Would be perfect for my situation, but then again if it's Melbourne only, I'll be there with bells on.

I'll be looking for accomodation while there. I'm not fussy as long as its clean and close to the Academy. Transport will be the killer as the family will keep the car in Brisbane (young family, school runs etc).

If you know of anywhere that fits in with these dates please let me know.
How do others get started with transport etc. Sounds a silly question but hoping to not have to buy a car for only 12 months.

Good Luck to all the other applicants who have applied.
MIK

Brisbane 9 April Testing Day
 

Hi Arnham Flyer,
I attended the Wednesday Test Day (10 April).
Reference check done on 15th, and got the call yesterday to say I was selected.
Good luck to you and your chances :ok:

online test
 

Just completed the online test. Oh my god, missed questions & messed up the maths part damn!!! I don't think I'll get in this time!

Liabella, from what I have read in this thread, most people are saying that the only way to get to the academy is really by car. Public transport is non-existent, as the academy is on the other side of the airport.

Although, some people have mentioned that there were a few people who rode bikes to the academy...

Public Transport
 

Liabella,

Here is info on public transport to Melbourne Airport. Airport travel - Public Transport Victoria

This would only get you to the Terminal though. I mapped out a walk with mapmyrun and it works out to over 7.5km from Tower Rd to the Terminal were the bus would drop you off, so walking from there is not a good option. Maybe a cheap bicycle you can lock up somewhere near there is an idea.

I would contact Melbourne Airport or Melbourne Centre and see if they know of any other service that might run between the two locations.

Personally, if I was in a course I would be happy to pick anyone up on my way from the bus stop, so maybe there is someone in the course who is willing to help you out, most people going onto the Tullamarine freeway would be passing by there anyway.

Have you been given an option on waiting for a course to start in Brisbane or are you locked into the Melbourne course?

Hmm, no call yet. Although no rejection either hate waiting!

arnhem flyer, perhaps check with your referees? they might have been contacted - thats always a good sign.

Just for reference guys, the next Brisbane course starts in May, which I imagine is full if you are getting offered July courses. The next Brisbane one after that wont start until sometime around September/October or later.

Hi Elias.K.
Seems I will be buying a car when down there to be honest.
Not keen on bikes and walking is not an option, as who knows what the weather brings.

No call on Briasbane yet, however May is too soon to give notice and get the medicals sorted. Sept/Oct would be perfect and happy to wait. end of the day, I'm just stoked to get the nod so if Brisbane is a no go, I will be sure make july work.

Had the pre-employment medical today. All good bar they didnt have the measures for the hearing test results required to match mine against. they have to follow up with AirSrevices to get the requirements which may take a few days.

Hope everyone is well in the ATC world. Haver a great weekend all !!

Advice/insight?
 

Hey all. I am an ATCO over in the United States. I tried out for the experienced controller positions available in Sydney. I have been going through the application process. I did the application, the online testing, the psycho test, and got email recently that I passed the panel interview. I was told they are doing reference checks and setting up my proctored testing. Does anyone have any insight into which testing this is? I have no idea what to expect in this testing round.

I wish you all luck who are looking at just starting your ATC careers. I am entering my 10th year as a controller here in the US and it has been a great time. If anyone has any questions about the career, generally speaking, I will be more than happy to try to answer any questions.

Best of luck and thanks!

Hi peoples,

I was on the last brissy testing days approx two weeks ago and frankly my fingers are getting cramped from staying crossed so long. Hoping I hear back soon. Anyways thanks to all those who provided so much helpful info about the process, good luck to those also waiting and congrats to those already in.

tower course in melboure aug 2013
 

is anyone out there on the tower course scheduled for aug 2013 in melbourne? yet to be told an exact date yet for this course starting

Hi Guys!

I was curious to know if the Air Traffic Controller in Training is an ongoing recruitment done by Airservices, I noticed that applications for 2012/13 close on April 30 and I was wondering if they will keep recruiting from May for 2013/14.

Thanks in advance!

It's an ongoing process. I'd be very surprised if there wasn't a new ad to replace the current one within a day or two of it ending. We certainly can't afford to stop recruiting.

hey greg, congratulations on getting into the tower stream!

I got offered an en route position for July; however like you, haven't got a set date yet.

Still waiting to get my ARN from CASA so I can do my class 3 medicals.

Anyone else out there on the en route course?

Room Available
 

Room still available in Burnside Heights (17kms from academy). Sharing a 4bdr house with only 1 other. Garage available. House mate is an experienced controller and will be available to help with your studies if required.

Inbox me for further info.

hi quester
 

just sent you a message.

Constipated, check your PMs.....

mel
 

hi quester, just sent you another pm. thanks

mel
 

just sent you a mpm,
thanks

Sorry to ask ...
 

Hey all. I am sorry to ask again but I didn't get any answer to my question before and my testing is coming up this week. I have done the AirServices' version of the FAA's aptitude testing and the psychological testing. Having passed the interview, they want me to get tested at a facility here in the US. I have that appointment scheduled but I honestly have no idea what to expect.

If anyone has any insight what to expect, it would be greatly appreciated. I know some of you had messaged me privately and forgive me as I just discovered that part of pprune.org (Yes, I admit I am not a pprune addict (lol) but I do value all your input).

Also, for anyone familiar with Sydney Tower. My background consists of being certified at Long Beach airport in southern California, John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York City, and currently San Francisco (SFO). I do not think I have flat out asked but can I ask for your opinion on what you think my chances of success of making it in Sydney if I get the chance to? Again, thanks!

Best regards,
Jason

@clear2land...the proctored tests are snap shots of portions of the tests u have completed already. You will probably get an additional 2 tests, diagrammatical and spacial. Go there rested, relax and get it done. I did mine in Dubai a few months ago.
Fingers crossed all goes well, I'll be in Melbourne Sept for my bridging course, and then off to Perth....

Good luck!

Thanks Nookie
 

Thanks Nookie for that. I just had no idea what to expect. If I may ask a few questions, you said you are slated to go in the fall? They moved fast. Are they helping you with the whole immigration/visa thing? Forgive me as I have never done anything like this before. Also, what happens after this testing? How does the medical process go? Just curious. Thanks so much!!

Clear2land....will pm u

These are examples of the spatial awareness tests. However imagine even more ways a cube could be put together then what they would look like folded up.

http://www.airways.co.nz/careers/questions_spatial.pdf

http://www.airways.co.nz/careers/questions_diagramming.pdf

Hi All,

So I recently got my call from AServices.
Unfortunately I did not make the cut.
From the feedback they gave me, I did fine on the technical stuff like spacial, math, verification and diagrammatic. Also fine on the group exercise.
I failed the simulation :(

On the day after the presentation exercise, I was feeling very bad about my performance in the presentation. As the assessors told us to keep our chins up, I tried to do exactly that. However I did feel very demotivated after I felt I buggered the presentation.
At the end of the day, it turns out even after being demotivated, I did more than well enough in the group, spacial, verification and diagrammatic.

My advice if you are doing the testing day. If you are demotivated, you can still do well! So keep your chin up :)
If you mabey don't do so well early in the day, keep trying, it may make the difference at the end of the day, possible you did not do so bad in areas you thought.

Regards,
Jon

29 april assessment day in Melborne
 

..I am one those who attended the assessment day in melbourne last 29 april...any news from the guys who were present that day?..I haven't heard anything from ASA yet...

Hi Folks, Does anyone know if they will open recruiting again any time soon? I wasn't able to get my application together before it closed on 30th April. Thanks.