Steer away from common choice jobs – air traffic controller urges

Lolita Fernandes has been an air traffic controller at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) for the past 18 years, and has shared the advantages of choosing a career outside of the conventional employment sectors.

Speaking at an event which was organised to help youths get acquainted with the aviation sector, Fernandes said she is thankful for the opportunity to be part of an agency that assists with the transportation of thousands of persons.
In a world where doctors and lawyers are the common choices, she stated that there is much more to discover in other fields.
“I’m now part of this team whose main focus is enlightening the youths, having them exposed to the aviation world and having them move away from the conventional job choices, like becoming doctors, lawyers, teachers…”
Looking back at the evolution of air traffic control, she related that the system is more digitalised, relying less on standard tools.
“My 18 years at the GCAA has taken me from maps, rulers and clocks to well-established digital systems and advanced technologies to assist in separating and monitoring flights. We have moved leaps and bounds in air traffic control over the past years,” she informed.
While analysing the importance of her job, Fernandes related that they play a critical role in the smooth flow of air traffic throughout a flight. Directions and locations must be calculated accurately and then relayed to the pilot. The weather and other external factors must be taken into account.
“An air traffic controller is that person who is responsible for issuing clearances, instruction and advice to aircraft, both in the air and on the ground to ensure that they are separated from each other. We also ensure that the flights are conducted in a safe and expeditious manner.”
She added,” We manage the flow of traffic, into and out of Guyana’s airspace using what we call invisible roads what we call flight routes. We also guide pilots during takeoff and landing, separate and monitor aircraft as they travel through the skies. We provide information and advice to pilots.”
Usually, they are able to control these aircraft from control towers at the airport, using complex digital technology and communication. A clear visual gives them enough influence to direct these aircraft.
Speaking to youths who may be interested in joining the profession, Fernandes explained that a University degree is not necessary, since the technical skills are specifically required.
“Every minute, every hour, every day, there are men and women working to ensure the safety of our national airspace…The position of air traffic controller does not mandate the acquisition of a college degree because the technical proficiency is synonymous to that job type.”