Air Traffic Controller Training at CCBC

CCBC offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and Certificate program in Air Traffic Control. Students may select from two Air Traffic Control degree programs: CTI and Non-CTI.


CTI Air Traffic Controller Training

Our Air Traffic Control-CTI degree program is one of only 23 aviation colleges approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to train air traffic controllers under the FAA Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI). Graduates of FAA CTI-approved programs are entered into a direct-hire pool of air traffic controller applicants. Since 1997, the majority of the FAA air traffic controller workforce has come from graduates of CTI-approved college and university programs.

Hiring prospects for air traffic controllers are excellent. According to the FAA publication A Plan for the Future: The FAA's 10 Year Strategy for the Air Traffic Controller Workforce 2008-2017, an estimated 17,000 air traffic controllers will have to be hired in order to replace projected retirements and an increased volume of air traffic (p. 1). This FAA document further suggests that CTI schools will continue to play a critical role in providing a source of qualified candidates over the next decade... (p. 29).

The CCBC AT-CTI Handbook contains information specific to the CTI program. This handbook discusses CTI program eligibility, selective application process, curriculum, costs, the CTI air traffic controller hiring process, and CTI student responsibilities and expections.

NOTE: Graduation from an FAA-approved CTI program does not guarantee employment. The FAA makes the final decision based on its own eligibility criteria which includes medical qualification and security background checks.

How to Apply for the Air Traffic Control CTI Program:

Enrollment in the CTI program is limited and eligibility criteria apply. Prospective students must complete the regular CCBC Application for Admission (may be submitted via paper copy or online) and also the CCBC AT-CTI Application for Admission. Both applications must be received for consideration and selection into the CTI program.

Non-CTI Air Traffic Controller Training

Students who complete the Non-CTI Air Traffic Control degree may find employment as Air Traffic Control Specialists in Non-Federal Contract Control Towers or as flight information and weather briefers with Flight Service.

No admission restrictions apply to the Non-CTI Air Traffic Controller training program.


More Information on Air Traffic Controller Training:

Please see our Aviation Program Information Packet for details on our Air Traffic Control degree and certificate programs, course descriptions, admissions, financial aid, VA Benefits and transfer options.

You can be a part of this high tech and exciting career field! We encourage you to learn more about air traffic controller careers by visiting our Careers in Aviation Page where you will find numerous links leading to information on hiring, salaries, working conditions, and the employment outlook.