April 24, 2021, I started the IFATC recruitment process. I met all the necessary requirements to be able to do it and I went for it. 5 hours later I have an answer from my recruiter assigned, ShaneAviation telling me that I can do my theory test. I passed the test the same evening with 84%. I was delighted I passed this step and I am now redirected to the practical. I made the decision not to take it right away and to take some training with a trainer before attempting the test.
April 27, 2021, I received a message from my assigned trainer, Juan Oosthuizen who is also a supervisor, that he would be my trainer. I booked the different sessions that I had to have and I officially started my training on the 29th of April, 2021.
My first session was not the best I had a lot of mistakes but I didn’t give up and we did the session again another day and it was better. Then followed about 6 sessions in which I learned a lot of things. Finally, on May 16, 2021 I did my last session with Juan and this session covered everything I needed in a practical, which I passed and so after this one I booked with my recruiter to attempt the practical test the same day and I passed the test successfully.
I was a little stressed at the beginning but in the end everything went well because I knew I was capable of it. For this part of my journey I would like to personally thank Juan Oosthuizen for the time they have taken for me and for all they have taught me!
May 16, 2021, I officially became part of the IFATC team, after the written, 6 sessions and my practical, what an adventure. I am very happy to be doing ATC every day throughout Europe, I was promoted to IFATC Specialist on May 23, 2021 after passing my chech-ride phase. Now, since I became a specialist I have given myself the goal to open different airports every day and not to focus on big HUBs right away but that will come I’m sure very soon!
