My Journey
The weight of responsibility for my family's future was immense. Worrying about affording healthcare, saving for their education, and just providing a stable environment created a lot of internal stress. This pressure manifested as tension headaches and difficulty relaxing, impacting my own health as I prioritized their perceived needs.
My main health-related concern about pursuing ATC was the demanding schedule, especially during training and early years. Would shift work negatively impact my health and take away from my ability to be present and healthy *for* my family? I feared trading financial stress for physical exhaustion and absence.
ATCAT Academy helped address this by offering flexible preparation that I could integrate without completely upending my life or health routines. Discussing work-life balance with instructors who were experienced controllers also provided realistic expectations and coping strategies. Most importantly, understanding the comprehensive family health benefits offered by the federal government was a huge relief, easing my worry about affording care for my loved ones, which in turn reduced my own stress.
Now, in my ATC career, the reduction in financial stress is the biggest health benefit, both for me and the family atmosphere. Knowing they are covered by excellent health insurance provides enormous peace of mind. While shift work requires adjustment, the overall reduction in anxiety about providing for them has significantly improved my personal well-being and allows me to be a healthier, more present parent and partner. ATCAT Academy was the gateway to this healthier family dynamic.