How Do I Become an Army Air Traffic Controller?

There are several steps that you must take, in a particular order, to become an Army air traffic controller. First, you must talk to an Army recruiter. Then you must meet all the necessary requirements to enlist and obtain a high enough score on the required aptitude entrance exam. You must then pass a physical and psychological exam, complete basic training, and successfully move on to advanced training. There are a number of skills that you must already possess, otherwise you may have to perform a job related to flight operations for a set period of time before you can apply for the air traffic controller position.

The first step may be the most difficult to accomplish, as it requires you to enlist as a member of the military. Joining any branch of the military requires an unalterable, long-term commitment. For example, to become an Army air traffic controller in the United States Army, you must commit to a multi-year enlistment. Generally, the US Army strives to retain members in which it has invested substantial resources to train for specialized jobs, such as air traffic control. Talk to a recruiter, but ask specific questions about the differences between civilian life and military life before you commit to an enlistment.

Once you have decided to enlist, you must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery exam, known as the ASVAB. The test is a long series of multiple choice questions in various segments that tests your aptitude in math, science, critical thinking, analysis, problem solving, and engineering. The ASVAB also features a segment that requires you complete numerous simple mathematical calculations under very limited time constraints. The test can be difficult, and it lasts several hours, but, based upon the results, the recruiter will be able to tell you whether you initially qualify to become an Army air traffic controller, which is military occupational specialty (MOS) 15Q. If not, your recruiter will suggest a related MOS that will allow you to gain the necessary skills and familiarity with flight management.

After taking the ASVAB, you will sign an intent to enlist contract with the US Army, be given a physical, have blood drawn, discuss the exact details of your MOS position, learn where you will be stationed for basic and advanced training, and all of the particulars of your enlistment. You will then swear an oath, sign your enlistment papers, and await orders to report to basic training. After completing basic training and advanced training in your MOS, you will be assigned to your post as either an air traffic controller or in a field that will prepare you for air traffic control.