To this day, many people remain unaware of the true role of an air traffic controller, often confusing it with that of a "Marshaler" who waves colorful sticks to guide planes into their parking spots. In reality, the entire aviation team operates like a finely tuned machine, each member bearing a significant responsibility.
My fascination with airplanes began in childhood, likely sparked by my mother's job with an airline based in Adjara, a company that has long since ceased to exist. During the 1990s, she often brought little Taco to work, where I first encountered flying objects and fell in love with them—a love that endures to this day.
Despite my passion, I did not take my first steps in aviation until the age of 26. If you think that age is too late to start a new career or that it posed an obstacle for me, you are greatly mistaken. I firmly believe that one should try everything—always! I went from school to university at a very young age, so it is not surprising that a 17 or 18-year-old might not yet know what they truly want. It is not only unsurprising but necessary. As interests evolve, one should explore various paths. Throughout different periods of my life, I imagined myself in numerous professions, eager to try everything. It wasn't until later that I entered the field of aviation and realized that this was where I belonged.
The job itself is inherently stressful due to its nature, but in those critical moments, confusion is not an option. Years of experience have perhaps made me resilient to such pressures; everything happens almost automatically now. Often, there isn't even time to contemplate the magnitude of our responsibilities. We are so focused on performing our duties perfectly that reflective thoughts only come later, at home. After leaving behind the flying birds and looking back on a tiring day, one realizes how significant, emotional, and stressful it all was. Yet, this stress is likely mitigated by a love for the work and its unique challenges. This is a profession where boredom has no place. Every shift is special, and no two days are alike.
One of the most gratifying aspects of my profession is the spirit of teamwork. In Georgia, the lack of women in this field is particularly noticeable. Due to certain clichés, women themselves show less interest, which I find surprising. The main "justifying" reason often cited is the requirement to work night shifts. Many have asked, "How do you manage, being a girl, with night shifts?" To which I respond, "So what if I'm a girl?!"
Fortunately, this situation has been changing in recent years. Young women are increasingly drawn to aviation, gaining more access to information, and most importantly, growing up without the stereotypical notion that professions should be categorized by gender.
Prepared by: Gvantsa Silagadze
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