Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI)
The Federal Aviation Administration has partnered with select institutions around the United States to promote aviation for the next generation. AT-CTI graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills to pursue a broader range of employment opportunities around the aviation industry. Graduates are eligible to bypass the Air Traffic Basics Course, which is usually covered during the first five weeks of qualification training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Students must successfully complete all required training at the FAA Academy to continue employment with FAA.
The College of Aeronautics offers an Air Traffic Control (ATC) Applied Associate degree in conjunction with all of its bachelor’s degree programs. The ATC degree meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) AT-CTI program and is FAA approved.
How do I become an Air Traffic Controller?
- Graduate from an FAA approved AT-CTI program, or have three year’s work experience, or a combination of work experience and education
- Receive an official school recommendation
- Be a United States citizen
- Be hired by 31 years old (except experienced controllers, be hired by 35th birthday)
- Pass a medical examination
- Pass a security investigation
- Achieve a score of at least 70 on the FAA pre-employment test
- Speak English clearly enough for others to understand you on communications equipment
Air Traffic Control and Dispatch Programs
Air Traffic Control
Air traffic control specialists are a critical component of the National Airspace System. Students in Air Traffic Control programs at Florida Tech learn about weather, flight planning, physical sciences, safety and more. Students dive deep into the National Airspace System to understand its intricacies and get hands-on experience through Air Traffic Control courses and training labs. The Air Traffic Control minor and Associate's Degree programs prepare students for the Air Traffic Basics test.
Flight Operations and Dispatch
Aircraft dispatchers must consider a wide variety of factors in order to be successful in their field. Meteorological activity, airspace restrictions, airline operations and many other changing factors play a part in their role. The Flight Operations and Dispatch Associate's Degree and Aircraft Dispatch minor programs prepare students to take the FAA written exam for aircraft dispatcher and the FAA practical exam to receive an FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate.