WoH
New Member
You seem to know a lot about the FAA. Does this "hiring freeze" apply to CTI as well as OTS, or only OTS? I might consider doing a cheap CTI program to give myself a better chance. Also, do you know if contract towers or other non-federal towers are hiring?
The very few people that they are hiring are CTI and OTS with preferences (veterans preferences, not geo prefs). So it would still benefit you to go CTI if you're say, younger than 25 or so.
I've contacted some contract tower companies myself. First of all, you need a tower operator certification. There is only one CTI program that I know of that includes the certificate as part of their program and that's in Beaver County, PA. Second, they want you to have 5 years experience.
May I also suggest joining the Air Force? Doesn't seem to be a horrible idea to me.
Sounds good, but dont controllers HAVE to retire at 55? I always thought that that was the reason for the so called shortage the last few years. Not voluntary retirements rather mandatory retirements.
Its all good though, if I gett hired great. If not, oh well. Id rather not sit and try to speculate.
Another thing to consider is the politicians currently in DC. They seem to really enjoy spending money, especially on government agencies... While the FAA may not be on the top of the list, I dont see its funding being cut any time soon.
As far as the new contract for controllers, wouldn't if actually favor hiring more poeple? I am not fully familiar with what was included, but I wouldnt doubt that work rules and scheduling were changed in a way that would require more employees... I could be wrong though
Yes, controllers have to retire at 55. OR they can retire after 25 years. Plenty of people 45-54 eligible who are not opting to retire.
The reason why the new contract precludes more hiring is because when existing people are paid more (significantly more), there is less money to go into hiring and paying new people.