Former ATC Rob Russell gives us insight into his route into aviation and offers advice for a long career in the industry
As an air traffic controller (ATC), Rob Russell has performed one of the most demanding tasks in aviation for the best part of 37 years. Constantly seeking to learn, grow, and improve, he now applies his experience and knowledge as a safety officer for a local helicopter company.
After finishing school, Rob completed two years in the Air Force and eventually joined the Department of Civil Aviation in 1981. He says of his early experiences, “You need to become streetwise very quickly. Learn to build up relationships with reliable people who you can trust to be good mentors.” Aviation can be a competitive industry and, as is true in life, surrounding oneself with good people is advice necessary for success.
Being such a small and close-knit industry, particularly in South Africa, it pays to be honest in your interactions within aviation. “Never try and get to the top using lies and unscrupulous means,” says Rob, “You will be found out, exposed and the community will shun you.”
“You have to be humble. Start at the bottom, have great ethics and you will get there. Remember, anything is possible with determination and honesty.”
As those within aviation are well aware, the industry has been particularly hard hit in the wake of the current global pandemic. Many have been using this time to upskill, spend time with family or even start new business ventures. Rob recommends taking advantage of the many fantastic colleges that offer short courses to help to expand one’s knowledge and open doors to new experiences. He also offers a word of warning when he says, “… be wary of many of them. Some are out to make a quick buck out of you so tread carefully. However, the long-term rewards are always a good thing to aspire to.”
“Aviation must be something you love and have a great passion for… It is the most rewarding job, if it’s something you love.”
Outside of aviation, Rob enjoys refereeing hockey matches on a regular basis and says he has done so for the past 30 years. Though by his own admission, he’s not one to cross. “If you thought I was grumpy when working as an ATC, try me on a hockey field!”
The advice Rob gives is invaluable to those hoping for long and successful careers within aviation. Stay humble and continue to learn and grow wherever possible.