Question about my next steps to becoming an air traffic controller.
I am 18 years old and I just graduated high school. The past 4 years I have been interested in two different careers: air traffic control and data science. I have had a really tough time picking between the two. I feel like I would really enjoy and be good at both. This year, I have still continued to struggle between the two. Air traffic control will obviously be better financially than going to college, but it is a much tougher job. Data science isn't as good financially because it makes slightly less and requires college tuition, but it's less stress and I could have more time to spend with family. So I've really been struggling on making a decision. I believe I would enjoy both, but it just figuring out which is better for me.
Right now, I have talked to my family and I am going to go to college for 1 year for data science, and then after that first year I am going to re-assess and figure out it I want to switch over to air traffic control, or if I am enjoying data science, stay in college to work towards my degree. I have won a lot of scholarship money, so my total cost of college isn't bad at all compared to a lot of people.
The question I have for you guys here is what are the current steps for me to become an air traffic controller through the Academy in OKC? Is the current rule still you need a high school diploma and either 1 year of postsecondary education or 1 year of full-time work experience? Or has that changed? After my first year in college I am good to apply? And would I still apply through USAJOBS? How does that work?
I would also love to hear any advice you guys have for me. Outside of taking a tour at the Indy ATC building, I haven't really had any opportunities to talk to any controllers. I would really appreciate any and all advice.