Best ARTCC for slow learner

[Ernest Pergrem 1339101]

I would like to volunteer as a controller, but my attempt a few years ago made me realize I need a ARTCC where traffic volume is such that I won't get overwhelmed. Initially that would be a few flights at a time.

 

Can anyone recommend an ARTCC for someone whose multi-tasking skills or memory isn't what they were 30 years ago?

 

Thanks,

Ernie

[Don Desfosse]

Hi Ernie,

 

I see you're a member of VATUSA, so I'll reply from a US-based perspective. In the US, the facilities currently with the lowest number of controllers that could likely use the help while at the same time be not too taxing in terms of traffic include: Honolulu, Indianapolis, Anchorage, Kansas City and Salt Lake City. Hope this helps, and happy holidays.

[Ernest Pergrem 1339101]

Thanks for the reply.

 

A few years ago I tried Indianapolis, but found during the sweat box training that I needed to be eased into it, rather than having a slew of aircraft thrown at me.

 

However, once achieved I'm pretty sure I could do well at the S1 or S2 level.

[Kenneth Haught]

Hi Ernie,

I'd definitely say that all of Don's recommendations are pretty solid, depending of course on if you have a preference of where you want to work (and [Mod - Happy Thoughts]uming you are looking for a US based ARTCC of course). I can personally speak to Anchorage, and tell you that our training program can be adjusted to match whatever learning speed you find best...and we're always happy to take as much time as you need to understand the material and feel comfortable. Our overall traffic level is pretty low in comparison to a couple of the ARTCC's mentioned, specifically ZID (Indianapolis) and ZLC (Salt Lake Center). If you want to get comfortable, but still have the ability to have a challenge with terrain considerations, etc...we may just be a good fit for you.

 

Right now we're in the process of rebuilding some training staff, but we generally are available most afternoons/evenings Eastern US time, until about Midnight EST or so. HCF (Honolulu) or ZKC (Kansas City) may also be a good fit, and in particular Anchorage and HCF have an agreement in place which allows you to become certified at either, and work the other's minor airports with no additional checkout required (great if you decide you want some change of scenery without a full "checkout", we're happy of course to help you become familiar with our airspace if you choose).

 

The biggest thing is don't be "afraid" to speak up, if you're working with a mentor/instructor and they are moving too fast. Just because we (at 1000's of ATC hours) think of something as second nature, doesn't mean it really is...your trainer or TA should be able to help develop a program to fit your needs regardless of where you finally end up giving it a try!

 

P.s. A final note, because of the software used to control simulated aircraft, it's not uncommon to login to a full scope. Just take a deep breath and realize that the magic "standby" works even better during training than it does live/rw!