Video gamers, US government has jobs for you in these departments

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Transportation have launched a campaign targeting video gamers. The agencies want to offer gamers a job critical to keeping American skies safe.

According to a CNN report, the agencies are looking to recruit a new generation of air traffic controllers to address an ongoing staffing shortage.The FAA will begin accepting applications on April 17 as part of this effort. The agency currently has around 11,000 controllers and 4,000 trainees, but officials say thousands more are needed to reach full staffing levels.In a release (seen by CNN), Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote, “To reach the next generation of air traffic controllers, we need to adapt.

This campaign’s innovative communication style and focus on gaming taps into a growing demographic of young adults who have many of the hard skills it takes to be a successful controller.”

How FAA is targeting gamers to fill controller shortages in US

The hiring campaign uses gaming-themed language to attract applicants, encouraging them to “level up your career.” The official website lists “mission requirements” and highlights new technologies being introduced as part of efforts to modernise air traffic control systems.

“We are modernising the sky. The BEST AND BRIGHTEST controllers leverage the world’s most advanced air traffic technology,” the website states.As part of a broader upgrade, the FAA is working to phase out older systems such as floppy disks, copper wiring and paper flight strips. The campaign also highlights benefits such as paid training, government perks and average annual earnings exceeding $155,000 after three years of service, the report notes.A Government Accountability Office report found that the number of air traffic controllers in the US has declined by about 6% over the past decade. The shortage has been linked to factors including the Covid-19 pandemic, government shutdowns and hiring challenges. The same report noted inconsistencies in how the FAA assesses its recruitment, hiring and training processes.The FAA has previously attempted to attract gamers. In 2021, it launched a similar “level up” campaign aimed at video game players while also trying to diversify the workforce.

The Department of Transportation notes that about 65% of Americans play video games, while only around 25% of current controllers hold a traditional college degree.Officials believe gaming skills such as quick decision-making, focus and the ability to manage complex scenarios could translate into the demands of air traffic control. However, the role involves high-pressure situations and significant responsibility.The FAA said the application window will close after 8,000 submissions, after which candidates will go through aptitude tests, medical and security checks, and training at the FAA academy. The agency has also reduced the hiring timeline by more than five months as part of efforts to streamline recruitment.The FAA has hired 2,400 controllers since March 2025, but officials say they need more to address long-term shortages and upcoming retirements.“We need the best people, the best training, and the best tools because we expect the best results,” FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford told CNN.