Getting an edge on an application

What are some things that someone could have down on an application that'd give them an edge on the rest of their group? I'm talking about things other than the obvious -- clearly a good AT-SAT score, veteran's preference, and some other things are going to help -- but is there anything that any of you experienced controllers know of?

I thought it may give me a little extra credit if I got certified in some of the safety courses available through AOPA (Interactive Safety Courses , if you're curious). I put it on the "other qualifications" part of my application, I think. They're free and don't require a license. If anything it helped me to increase my familiarity with aviation concepts, so even if nobody notices it on the application I still got a some benefit.

Is there anything else y'all can think of, whether it's for people who already applied or those who are just beginning the process?

They really seemed to like the fact that I have a current instrument rating - which obviously if you don't fly would be quite the expense to get a little higher up on the list (if any at all). I think the application is just really general and the biggest step to getting hired is the interview.

That's just my opinion.

just be willing to work for $33,000/year, and submit the application. They are HURTING for people right now. I have even heard rumor of several ex-prisoners being hired. I have heard that the academy has pretty much turned into thug central. Pretty much just turning in an application will get you hired. The hard part is just waiting for FAA HR to get to yours. Paitence is a virtue, and you will need it when waiting on human resources. They are sloowwww! Anyways , good luck

Thank you for the AOPA link. Perhaps, it will strengthen my application and resume in the aviation-department, seeing as I don't have any instrument ratings, or even a PPL.

get your last name changed so it starts with an "A", haha... no seriously.

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~controller since 99'