The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has signed an agreement with Nashua Community College, making it the first school in New Hampshire to join the Enhanced Air Traffic–Collegiate Training Initiative (E-CTI). This marks the fifth new CTI program announced this year as part of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s efforts to address air traffic controller staffing.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re solving the air traffic controller shortage one step at a time,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Our new partnership with Nashua Community College will help us continue to attract the best and brightest to fill our air traffic control towers. To all the young Americans considering a career in this exciting field – your work will make flying safer and more efficient than ever.”
With this addition, nine programs are now authorized at eight schools nationwide, offering a curriculum and training technology similar to what is provided at the FAA’s Air Traffic Controller Academy in Oklahoma City. The Nashua program is the first of its kind in New Hampshire.
During a recent hiring campaign that ended on March 17, over 10,000 applications were received by the FAA for air traffic controller positions. Of these applicants, more than 8,300 advanced to testing stages. In July, there were 550 students in training at the Academy—the highest number recorded by month.
“Investing in the next generation of air traffic controllers is critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of our national airspace,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “By expanding training opportunities through these programs, we’re not only meeting today’s staffing needs—we’re building a resilient workforce ready to handle the challenges of tomorrow.”
Governor Kelly Ayotte commented on how this initiative benefits local talent: “Expanding opportunities in high-demand fields is essential to ensuring New Hampshire has a dependable pipeline of talent,” she said. “This partnership with Nashua Community College will help build the workforce of tomorrow right here in the Granite State, while opening new doors for students to pursue rewarding careers that keep our state strong and our nation safe.”
Students enrolled in Enhanced AT-CTI schools must pass several requirements—including assessments and medical checks—before receiving endorsement certificates that allow them to report directly to an FAA facility for further training. This process differs from Standard AT-CTI graduates who attend introductory courses at the FAA Academy before proceeding.
The FAA continues its efforts by offering year-round hiring for experienced controllers from military or private backgrounds and upgrading simulators used during training so new hires can complete their preparation more efficiently.
Schools interested in joining as E-CTI institutions can apply online throughout the year.
