I’ve been working in ATC for almost 24 years and one of the most significant changes I’ve observed is how aviation has become less attractive as a career. It used to be an attractive, highly regarded industry and even if many people were not always aware of air traffic control (ATC), being an important cog in aviation was enough to attract a sufficient number of candidates to keep things running and growing. But times are changing.
Nowadays, some perceive aviation as a significant cause of pollution and global warming. There are only so many times we can repeat that it accounts for only 2.5% of the world's carbon emissions (compared to road transport, which accounts for 20%). But there are other factors, too. The next generation of workers are thinking differently about work. The around-the-clock working schedules and no access to remote work are serious factors pushing them away from aviation. Old, custom technology and very few transferrable skills can make it hard to sell. And the times when people entered into ATC and never left before retirement are long gone, too.
My colleague, Julija, was the secretary of EUROCAE’s workgroup 125 which prepared the report on the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP). The group explained how ANSP and the wider industry can become attractive to newcomers again. Don’t hesitate to let us know if you need support with this subject.
Often, the best way to introduce young people to aviation and ATM is by talking about your job with them. Show them what you do. Discuss the pros and cons. Encourage them to be curious. So in short, yes, you should talk about your job in ATM with young people!
Vincent