Direct Entrant.

[ClioCraig]

Hello.

I'm currently an FOA (not a fast tracker) and have been looking at going for JATCC.

I understand I need to remuster as a direct entrant SNCO ATC and start at Cranwall before going to Shawbury.

Does anyone have any more information on it? IE what happens if i fail at Cranwall or JATCC, would I be able to fall back on TG9?

It's something I'm seriously considering, as working alongside the controllers in the tower has really got me interested in it. I've not been in long, but I want to make a career out of it, and I think that I'd prefer to try and make my career out of being a controller, rather than being a FOM.

Any advice or information would be welcomed!

Thanks.

 

[SirSaltyHelmet]

I am glad to see that because you work in a tower that you see the role of the FOM as a database manager and issuer of Airfield Driving Permits - I am sure that come Cranwell your massive knowledge of TG9 roles and responsibilities will stand you in great stead.

 

[SirSaltyHelmet]

Oh, and I have personally hated every minute of my last tour and not one controller or airfield driving permit in sight!

 

[the lovetoad]

Why don't you go and ask your career manager for advice and explain to him that you think his job isn't worth much? Maybe you can offer the RAF much more as a Sgt just out of puberty than some chimp who can't even spell Cranwell.

 

[NotAnIDOYet]

Glad to see some spiffing replies from the TG9 tribe. Personally i would go for it but remember that the RAF does not give you a civilian ATC endorsement - you would still have to go through the NATS course if you left.

Sound advice on speaking to your career manager though, there is more to life than databases - some of the FOAs where I am even get to stick stuff on a board DT_Xtremez_42:

 

[FOMz]

I would also go for it... but just a a little hint for you... your career manager is a FOM and has a wealth of trade experience you can draw on.. so don't just dismiss them as someone who does Airfield driving permits - you'll be doing yourself no favours.

You seem to have scant knowledge of what a FOM actually does... so looks like you are prime controller material to me.

To answer your question....

If you pass cranwell and become a DE Sgt then go on to fail JATCC... well its either you are shown the door or if spaces are available you may be allowed to remuster back into TG9 at your former rank. Do not even entertain the idea that you will stay a Sgt...

Oh and just so you know.. controllers can only be employed in towers, etc... FOMs can serve anywhere and in some very interesting areas. I suggest you maybe sit down and speak to some FOMs... you'll be surprised by their tales of daring do and their travels... speak to a controller... Oh I've been to MPA and Bastion....

 

[ClioCraig]

Ok, I so my first post didn't read very well.

I'm not trying to undermine the role of a FOM at all.

I know there is a lot more to their job than that. I've been in a few years now and the FOMs at my last two posts never seemed to be in their office as they were always out doing something and were very busy people.

I have nothing against either of my previous FOMs, or their position. I would like to make a career out of the air force, and think i'd like to take it in a different direction than the FOM route.

I have spoken to my FOM, other TG9 personel, and controllers about it.

I was trying to get some different opinions and some more information.

 

[unruly1986]

A lad I know was in your position and he went for it a few years ago. He's a Sgt controller now.

Considering there are young people joining from civvie street as SNCO controllers I don't know why you are getting the sh1tty comments on here, you will have (a bit more) RAF experience.

Go for it, but start your prep NOW - get down to the commissioning club on stn if there is one. Start researching OASC, current affairs, S/D/T etc.

 

[MooA]

ClioCraig - You didn't undermine the job of a FOM at all it's just these ****takers not giving any constructive answers as per usual. I can only hope you guys give better answers to the guys and girls you look after in person!!

If you fail Cranwell or JATCC you will go back to trade. This is because the DE route has not been as forthcoming as originally hoped, people were put off applying from the FOA side as they would effectively be out of a job if they fail and no-one no matter how confident they are of passing through would not easily risk unemployment. (Myself being one of them)

There is definitely more variety in postings as a FOM though so do have to agree there.

 

[FOMDude]

ClioCraig, I too feel that you have a raw deal from this forum (I dont recall you ever saying anything about Airfield Driving Permits) and now hope to answer your very reasonable question:

As has been said already, approach your Trade Specialist (PFOM) and also the SATCO to discuss the ways and means of preparing yourself for applying for DE Sgt ATC Controller. Aptitude tests are conducted at OASC at RAF College Cranwell but before that you will need to apply through the AFCO who will inform you of the procedures etc. It would be well worth visiting your AFCO in advance to glean information about that whole procedure. There is also a very good friend of mine working at Cranwell who is a FS Controller and who (hopefully still) works in the DE ATC Office. It would be worthwhile speaking with her to get even more savvy info.

Should you be successful at the AFCO and OASC and then pass the NCA Course at Cranwell you will attend your JATCC. If however you are unsuccessful on JATCC you will return to your previous Trade in your previous rank (ie SAC) but only if the Trade has vacancies. A word of caution here as there may be a strong possibility that TG9 will be hit with redundancies in Tranche 2 in 2012/13. This is where good comms with your PFOM will come in handy and they will be able to discuss this with WO TG9 in most cases in order to give you the best calculation.

I have had the privilige of doing the JATCC course but it turned out that I did not have the aptitude for it; for me, being a FOM and now a PFOM was not my first choice but the opportunities have been varied, vast, thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding. Managing people can be more rewarding than controlling but this is personal preference. If it does not pan out for you in the Controlling world you have nothing to fear in becoming a FOM.

Good luck with your asprations and never let anyone stand in your way!!

DT_Xtremez_19:

 

[FOMz]

ClioCraig, I too feel that you have a raw deal from this forum (I dont recall you ever saying anything about Airfield Driving Permits) :

He did - he just edited it out..

Hope that clears up that small matter for you FOMDude.

(now get back to your ADP database) DT_Xtremez_42:

 

[FOMDude]

As always FOMz, you super duper Moderator - thanks for the update; I had not been aware of what was edited hence my confusion as to why peeps were mentioning it. Alles Clar. I still think that he was treated a little unfairly though especially as he is a junior.

.....and I dont do ADPs anymore - they moved me for good behaviour

Schhhoooooone............