YOUNG West Australians were given a taste of life at an Air Force base at the RAAF Base Pearce Open Day on Friday.
Air traffic controllers, also known as joint battlefield airspace controller (JBAC), spent the day sharing their knowledge and demonstrating their skills to the hopeful future ADF members.
The aviation enthusiasts were also able to learn first-hand about the rewarding career options that come with a job as an air traffic controller and what it takes to control both civilian and military aircraft movements as well as other elements of the aerial battlefield.
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READ NOWFlying Officer Tamara Videmanis said showing young people the amazing air show they enjoy every day was a rewarding experience.
“Not many people grow up dreaming to become an air traffic controller, but it really is a dream job,” she said.
“Once a young person comes to see the tower, they understand why we love what we do.
“A lot of people think the role of air traffic controller is a high-stress role, but we enjoy great team camaraderie and the Air Force equips us with the skills to handle any situation.”
Officer Videmanis said the tour was a great way to expose young people to the various tasks Air Traffic Controllers undertake every day.
“Our roles require being able to think on our feet and multi-task to ensure everything operates smoothly,” she said.
“It was a great opportunity for them to ask questions in a real military situation and was able to see what we do here on the base.”
Jason, who took part in the tour on Friday, said the opportunity to tour the base has cemented his desire to pursue a life in the ADF.
“I didn’t realise that there were so many aspects to Air Traffic Control,” he said.
“The skills that the controllers have are amazing, they are passionate about what they do and it looks like an amazing career.”
The ADF offers exciting aviation career pathways into Navy, Army and Air Force and there are great benefits, nationally accredited training and secure employment.
For more information, visit defencejobs.gov.au.