Career group

Transportation & Aviation

Cockpit, cabin, tower and highway: FAA certificates, CDL training and what the path really costs.

Air Traffic ControllerTime: 2–4 years from application to fully certified controllerMedian pay: $148,080 per year1 year of work experience, a bachelor's degree, or an AT-CTI programHow to become an air traffic controller →Flight AttendantTime: 3–9 months from application to first flightMedian pay: $63,580 per yearHigh school diploma or GEDHow to become a flight attendant →PilotTime: 2–4 years from zero to airline first officerMedian pay: $232,140 per year (airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers); $123,220 per year (commercial pilots)High school diploma; many airlines prefer a bachelor's degreeHow to become a pilot →Truck DriverTime: 1–3 months (full-time CDL school)Median pay: $58,640 per year ($28.19 per hour)High school diploma or GED preferred; CDL training requiredHow to become a truck driver →

Compare at a glance

CareerTimeTypical costMedian pay
Air Traffic Controller2–4 years from application to fully certified controller$0–$1,000 via the open FAA path; tuition if you choose an AT-CTI degree$148,080 per year
Flight Attendant3–9 months from application to first flight$0–$5,000 (airline training is free; private prep schools are optional)$63,580 per year
Pilot2–4 years from zero to airline first officer$65,000–$130,000 (more for a 4-year aviation degree)$232,140 per year (airline pilots); $123,220 (commercial pilots)
Truck Driver1–3 months (full-time CDL school)$0–$10,000 (company-paid training or private CDL school)$58,640 per year