ATC Careers

[KiloEchoMike]

Does anyone happen to know if having a DUI (from years ago) will affect the decision or the application of pursuing a career in Air Traffic Control?

[NJ]

If it hasn't been pardoned, then it would be worthwhile to explore having that done. I don't think that single thing would prevent you from getting hired. You could even use it as a positive. When I was intereviewed under the old SHL process they asked 'What was the most difficult challenge you've had?' And you could hexplain everything that happened because of that and you're achievements because of that.

[ywgflyboy]

Does anyone happen to know if having a DUI (from years ago) will affect the decision or the application of pursuing a career in Air Traffic Control?

I have been told that for a number of "record items" they look at the time from the date of the incident to the present. I think a human being would have a real hard time not giving you a chance if you f-upped 10 years ago.

In my current job (not aviation related) I am responsible for hiring/human resources. I would rather hire a person who has a few life stories and experiences rather than someone who thinks they are perfect.

[KiloEchoMike]

I guess the only thing to do is just move ahead with the application process and see what happens. Thanks for your input, I appreciate it.

[SkyWolfe]

Might as well try, right? I was worried about my speeding tickets

[the_professor]

A Secret-level security clearance is required for ATC. Find out if a DUI conviction is a disqualifying attribute for that clearance. (Not the DUI per se, but the fact that you have a conviction on your record) You'd probably have to talk to the RCMP. It is them and CSIS who do the background checks for the clearance. The background check goes back ten years. Call one of their public inquiry/affairs lines.

Nav Canada has nothing to do with researching or authorizing the security clearance.

[W0XOF]

Nav Canada has nothing to do with researching or authorizing the security clearance.

That isn't entirely true. Having had a conversation with someone last year who works for one of the two agencies that perform the security clearances for Nav Canada, airport agencies, airside passes etc. (the one that would work in a nondescript building and will only tell you they work for the government), I was surprised to find out that after they do the back ground checks, they only make a recommendation or non recommendation to Nav Canada. At that point, Nav Canada makes their own decision and can/will ignore a non recommendation. He said it was kind of frustrating.

Apparently, these agencies and Nav Canada are more concerned with your loyalty to Canada then a DUI.

[KiloEchoMike]

Thank you all for the input. I'm going to try and see what I can find out. I turned down an invite in June because I was worried about wasting someones (mine and possible interviewers) time. This is the job I really want to do. Thanks again!