In a new episode of the comedy reality, members of the US government persuade gamers to quit gaming and become air traffic controllers. Seriously.
We normally don’t comment on *political topics*, but somehow American politics often touch on gaming, so it’s inevitable. This is also the case in the latest bizarre case, where US Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy is telling gamers to quit playing games in front of screens and apply for a career as an air traffic controller.
In a video call specifically addressed to gamers it is stated that they were “training” for a job in front of the screens that will bring them a lot of money ($155,000 a year, after three years of service).
Yes, at least I’m making it up… but they literally state it in the video with the message: “This is not a game – this is a career. Level up”. The post was shared on both the US Air Force’s social channels and the White House’s official X channel.
🚨👀 Watch this…
YOU can be the future of air traffic control
It’s not a GAME, its a CAREER
Applications open April 17th at Midnight @FAANews pic.twitter.com/JVpgCIeF58
— Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) April 10, 2026
“To reach the next generation of air traffic controllers, we must adapt. This campaign’s innovative communication style and focus on gaming appeal to a growing demographic of young adults who already possess many of the key skills required to be a successful air traffic controller.” – explained the US Secretary of Transportation.
The US Air Force says that only 25% of their air traffic controllers have a college education, so in attracting new workers, they are focusing on those with “alternative careers” that include playing video games. They cite as an advantage of gamers for the job of flight controller quick thinking, focus and functioning under pressure.
The air traffic controller is by the way one of the most responsible and potentially stressful jobs a person can do. But hey – gamers trained for it, in front of their screens. Ordinary people have no idea about the stresses of online multiplayer. About responsibility according to status in ranked matches…