ORCUN DOLMACI AS TRAINEE ATC @ EUROCONTROL

If this isn’t your first job since graduation: what were your others jobs at which companies?

During my third year of Aviation studies I completed my internship at Rhenus Logistics at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. After 6 successful months, Rhenus Logistics wanted me to stay and they offered me a flexible contract. This gave me the opportunity to combine the job with my studies. Most of the days that we had no class, I was working at Rhenus in order to gain more practical experience. I worked at Rhenus till the last week before coming to Toulouse to start my training for Air Traffic Control.

How did you get your current job?

I always wanted to be an Air Traffic Controller, that’s why I decided to go with Aviation Studies for my Bachelor degree. I tried to get in to the training of LVNL during my second year of Aviation Studies and after graduating, but in both cases I did not get any further than the first (out of the 6) selection stage. Nevertheless, I did not give up on my dream and tried to get in to the training at EUROCONTROL. I managed to successfully complete all 6 selection stages and I have recently started my ATCO training.

What are your daily operations?

For me as a trainee it’s just like going back to school. I’m getting theory classes on several subjects (Air Traffic Law, Aircraft Performances, Meteorology) and I have a couple of simulations every week where I get trained. As a licensed Air Traffic Controller I will give instructions, advice and information to pilots so that they can fly safely, efficiently and quickly. At EUROCONTROL we keep track of flights by using radar and the latest computer systems.

What do you like the most at your job?

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” Confucius once said. Honestly, I don’t think there is a quote describing my feeling for this job any better. For someone like me who has a big passion for aviation, participating in the daily operations of the aviation industry is one of the greatest things of this job. Also, I like the fact that as an Air Traffic Controller you still have a lot of options. Initially you start as an ATCO, but when time goes on, you can become a coach or instructor.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I hope to successfully complete my training by that time and to be a licensed ATCO at EUROCONTROL’s Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre.
What did you like the most from your education that helps you out nowadays in your work?
The fact that we had a lot of presentations during our studies helped me a lot. It gives you a boost in your confidence level and makes you feel more comfortable in certain situations. Because of this for example, I was less nervous during my job interview at EUROCONTROL and feeling more confident.

Are you still connected with the Aviation Academy?

I still follow the Aviation Academy account on all social media platforms. Besides, I try to follow the special lectures for alumni’s which are given online (last time was a nice lecture with Mr. Gert Meijer!). Also, I’m still in contact with my former class mates. We are meeting a lot and going on trips together so I would rather call them family than friends.