‘I never realised a job like this existed’: Why more young people are choosing careers at AirNav Ireland

"I never realised a job like this existed": Why more young people are choosing careers at AirNav Ireland A growing number of young professionals in Ireland are discovering unexpected paths into high-skilled careers, with AirNav Ireland emerging as a notable employer attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds. For many, the idea of becoming an air traffic controller was previously unthinkable, yet the organisation has been drawing attention for offering unique entry points into a field that is both technically demanding and crucial to national infrastructure. Orla Newell, a former radiation therapist turned air traffic controller, exemplifies how such transitions are becoming increasingly common. Newell, who now works at AirNav Ireland's Shannon En-Route Centre, initially pursued a career in healthcare before discovering the opportunity to join the aviation sector. She admits she knew little about air traffic control prior to her transition. "I didn't know much about air traffic control to start with," she said. "Like most people, I didn't really know what the job involved. But once I looked into it, I realised it was something completely different to anything else out there." Her experience reflects a broader trend among younger workers seeking alternatives to conventional educational pathways. As an island nation positioned strategically between Europe and North America, Ireland plays a pivotal role in global air traffic. AirNav Ireland manages the flow of thousands of flights daily, ensuring the safe passage of aircraft through Irish airspace. This includes handling transatlantic traffic, which is vital for maintaining international connections and supporting sectors such as tourism, trade, and education. Every year, the organisation safeguards over 160 million passengers, equating to approximately 430,000 passengers per day. Ger Caffrey, CEO of AirNav Ireland, underscores the significance of the organisation's work. He notes that the safe and efficient management of airspace is fundamental to Ireland's economic vitality. "Our role is to ensure the safe, efficient and sustainable management of Irish airspace," he explained. "What we do matters every single day because it underpins national connectivity and global travel." According to Caffrey, each hour sees over 18,000 passengers being protected within Irish-controlled airspace, illustrating the immense responsibility carried by AirNav staff. Despite the complexity of the work, AirNav Ireland has established multiple avenues for entering the profession. While some candidates come directly from school via the Student Controller Programme, others bring varied experiences from fields such as healthcare, retail, agriculture, and public service. The programme requires applicants to be at least 19 years old and achieve a minimum of two H5 grades in their Leaving Certificate. This provides a viable alternative to university education, allowing young people to pursue a respected and well-compensated career immediately after secondary school. Misconceptions about air traffic control persist, particularly regarding the perceived exclusivity of the profession. However, the diversity of backgrounds represented among AirNav Ireland's workforce challenges these assumptions. Newell herself credits her previous experience in radiation therapy with honing transferable skills such as focus, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making, all essential qualities for air traffic control. The appeal of the job lies partly in its dynamic nature. "The job is challenging, but that is what keeps it interesting," Newell said. "You are always learning and no two days are the same." This sentiment echoes among many in the industry, who find satisfaction in the constant evolution of their roles and the impact they have on global mobility. With increasing awareness of non-traditional career options, AirNav Ireland continues to attract new talent from unexpected quarters. The organisation's efforts to demystify the profession and highlight its accessibility are contributing to a shift in perceptions among young people. As the demand for skilled professionals grows, the aviation sector is proving to be a compelling choice for those looking beyond conventional career trajectories.