Questions regarding a carreer in ATC?

Question

I just graduated from a California State University and was looking into a job as an ATC. I currently live in the center of Van Nuys, LAX, Burbank and Santa Monica airports. My question is, will I have to relocate for training or the career itself and is the training provided by the FAA locally? What else would I need to do (outside of the requirements listed on the FAA website)?

Answer 1

murigenii gets my thumbs up since that answer pretty well nails it.  One thing not mentioned is the AT-SAT test.  Passing that is also a requirement.

No, you cannot  bypass OKC (at least not in the circumstances you describe).  Depending on how your ATC career progresses, you will probably visit OKC more than once.  Good luck.

EDIT - just noticed murigenii mentioned AT-SAT, just not by name - even more reason for the thumbs up.

Answer 2

You will have to go to OK City for your training.  Whether you have to relocate for your assigned facility will depend on whether you limit your job search to your local area or widen your search.   Local training is simulator and OJT at your facility AFTER you complete your training at OK City.  You can be washed out at any time for failing.  If you can get in touch with a controller in your area they can give you suggestions on what to do to improve your chances.  But, all you need to do is to pass the entrance exam, pass your physical and pass your back round check.  The rest you really can't prepare for.

EDIT:  Thanks GJ2.   And GJ2 is right also, you can't bypass OK City.  College courses might give you a leg up...but...college doesn't mean you will pass the ATC training.