U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reached an agreement with Middle Georgia State University to join the Enhanced Air Traffic – Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI). This marks the first program of its kind in Georgia, expanding opportunities for students to enter air traffic facilities more quickly.
The FAA has authorized eight programs across seven schools, offering a curriculum and advanced training technology similar to that at the FAA’s Air Traffic Controller Academy in Oklahoma City. "We need more of the best and brightest in our towers to make our nation’s air traffic system the envy of the world," stated Secretary Duffy. He emphasized that programs like Middle Georgia State University's are crucial for developing a next-generation workforce and advancing aviation.
Dr. Christopher Blake, president of Middle Georgia State University, expressed commitment to preparing students for dynamic aviation environments: "As Georgia's flagship aviation school, we take seriously the responsibility of equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed for safe and efficient air travel."
The AT-CTI initiative is part of Secretary Duffy’s broader strategy to enhance air traffic controller recruitment. More than 8,320 candidates have been qualified and referred to the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA). Additional measures include financial incentives for graduates and new hires completing initial training milestones or assigned to hard-to-staff facilities.
Currently, there is a nationwide shortage of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers. Enhanced AT-CTI school students must pass several assessments before receiving an endorsement certificate and reporting directly to an FAA facility for training.
Unlike Standard AT-CTI graduates who attend the FAA Academy but bypass introductory courses, Enhanced AT-CTI graduates proceed directly into their roles. The FAA also recruits experienced controllers from military and private sectors year-round while modernizing simulators to expedite training processes.
The FAA remains committed to attracting top talent and increasing its controller workforce as part of its safety mission. Schools interested in becoming Enhanced AT-CTI institutions can apply online throughout the year.
