making the switch to ATC

[cforst513]

I didn't go to riddle, i didn't get the minor in ATC, so i'm pretty much clueless when it comes to the requirements. any ATC guys out there want to help me? i was thinking about making the switch from the flying end of aviation to the controller end. i'm working on my instructor ratings right now, i have a BS in biology, i'm 22, and i'm located in florida but i'm from ohio. i just heard about www.atccti.com, which seems like it might be informative, but i want to hear from you ATCers out there:

what do i have to do to get my name in the pool and get the call?
what is the pay and QOL like?
what kind of shifts do you work?
do you like your job?

thanks for your help!

 

[Swass]

Search it, live it, love it. Been gone over many times. pm for details................

 

[9GClub]

Swass,

How'd you like "Pushing Tin"?

 

[smellthejeta]

what do i have to do to get my name in the pool and get the call?

There are some military options, there is an off-the-street direct hire program (very spotty, nothing you can count on) that may be done for awhile, or there's a collegiate training program = go back to college and get a degree.

The cheapest/fastest places are community colleges, and there are four:

Minneapolis Area Technical College, Minneapolis, MN
Beaver County Community College, Monaca, PA (N. PIT suburbs)
Miami Dade Community College, Miami, FL
Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA (LA Suburbs, close to ONT)

The other programs are four year programs. The two years programs require that you complete an AS, but with a previous college degree and flight time, you can accelerate your coursework. I completed my program in 18.5 credit hours. I know one guy here did it in about 15 credit hours (only one semester).

what is the pay and QOL like?

Training: up to 13 weeks at GS-1 Pay ($8/hr) in OKC.
Facility training: Starts at about $38k/yr and goes up from there as you progress through training. Pay is determined by your facility ratings. With an assignment in the center (yes, I got one right out of college) I am expecting to make a six figure salary when I'm 30. This is all subject to the ongoing contract negotiations.

what kind of shifts do you work?
do you like your job?

Can't help you there, I'm a newbie.