Vaughn College is helping prepare the next generation of air traffic controllers through its new Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (Enhanced AT-CTI). The program recently reached an exciting milestone: Its first class of nine students completed the two-semester program with a 100% pass rate.

For students who dream of careers in aviation, few roles carry as much responsibility (or as much purpose) as that of an air traffic controller. Air traffic controllers help keep the national airspace moving safely and efficiently every day, guiding pilots, passengers and aircraft through some of the most complex environments in aviation. 

This achievement is more than a graduation story. It is a powerful example of how Vaughn responds to a national need, having become a partner approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the College provides an accelerated pathway for students to launch meaningful careers in air traffic control.

What Is the FAA Enhanced AT-CTI Program at Vaughn College?

Vaughn was approved by the FAA in April 2025 to offer the Enhanced AT-CTI program, which allows direct placement of eligible graduates into FAA facilities for controller training (bypassing training time at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City). To reach that point, students must meet certain requirements, pass the FAA’s Air Traffic Skills Assessment exam and satisfy medical and security requirements.

Inaugural Class Achieves 100% Pass Rate

For the inaugural class, the outcome speaks for itself: Nine students enrolled, and each completed the program. These nine students are now prepared to move forward in one of aviation’s most essential careers.

“The Vaughn community is incredibly proud of all nine students who are now well educated and skilled to take positions as air traffic controllers with the Federal Aviation Administration,” said Vaughn College President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo. “The success of these students speaks to the investment that this institution was able to provide. We are so grateful to the faculty and staff who ensured this exciting outcome; a life changing trajectory for every student.”

That life-changing trajectory is what makes the Enhanced AT-CTI program so compelling. Students are not simply learning in a classroom. They are training in an environment designed to mirror the demands, discipline and decision-making required in the field.

How Vaughn College Trains the Next Generation of Air Traffic Controllers

Vaughn’s enhanced program underwent an extensive FAA review to demonstrate its provision of a high-level curriculum, experienced instructors (many of whom have worked as air traffic controllers themselves) and advanced technology that reflects the experience offered by the FAA’s Academy Training in Oklahoma City.

High-Fidelity Simulation Systems

Using high-fidelity simulation systems, students practice the skills needed to manage pressure, communicate clearly and make decisions in real time. This simulator-based preparation is a defining feature of Vaughn’s air traffic control program, and graduates say it meaningfully shapes their readiness for the field. 

Graduate Morris Johnson ’26, reflected on how Vaughn’s simulator-based training helped sharpen his awareness and adaptability. “The simulator and the real world are totally different. I learned to be mindful that I can’t be fixated on one thing,” Johnson said.

A Training Tradition Since 1997

This kind of practical, hands-on preparation is a defining strength of Vaughn’s air traffic control program. Since 1997, Vaughn has offered air traffic controller training. Graduates have gone on to work throughout the region at locations including LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International and Westchester County Airports, as well as across the country in locations such as Miami and Hawaii.

The Enhanced AT-CTI program builds on that legacy while creating a faster, more direct route into the field. For students, this means access to specialized training, close faculty support and a clearer connection between classroom learning and career outcomes. For the aviation industry, it means a promising new pipeline of skilled, prepared and motivated air traffic controllers.

What Vaughn AT-CTI Graduates Say About Their Training

For graduate Yanni Agrotis ’26, the moment represents both personal pride and professional responsibility.

“It feels like there’s duty to be done, and it feels like I’m putting my badge on my shoulder like I’m ready to handle something very important,” Agrotis said.

That sense of responsibility is central to both air traffic control and Vaughn’s training approach. Students learn not only the technical requirements of the role, but also the focus and composure needed when every decision matters.

“The pressure is definitely the feeling of knowing there are lives on the line and one mistake, or a series of mistakes, could cause an issue,” Agrotis said. “So, being on your toes or being alert, you have to be awake, and you have to really know that this is such a big responsibility. But I think at the end of the day you’re going to feel rewarded for doing it.”

Another graduate, Andrew Stokes ’26 also commented about the rewarding nature of the role: “What I like about air traffic control is that every day is definitely going to be different when we get to our first facilities. It’s hard work, but very rewarding as well.”

Vaughn College and the National Air Traffic Controller Shortage

Additionally, this milestone has drawn media attention, with local television coverage spotlighting Vaughn’s first Enhanced AT-CTI graduates and the College’s role in helping address the national air traffic controller shortage. The FAA needs to hire 2,200 air traffic controllers in 2026, 2,300 in 2027 and 2,400 in 2028 to meet national demand and alleviate the shortage, which will help decrease flight delays and cancellations. The FAA is already 60% toward meeting this year’s hiring goal, with the help of Vaughn College and other AT-CTI schools. 

Vaughn Vice President of Training Domenic Proscia praised the inaugural class for the effort and discipline required to complete the program.

“These students worked tirelessly using advanced high fidelity simulations systems under the close supervision of skilled instructors,” Proscia said. “The result was that they were able to pass their evaluations and are now poised to be assigned directly into tower facilities to begin their careers as controllers. We are proud of them and those who will follow in their footsteps as we continue to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals who will contribute to the safety and efficiency of our skies.”

Start Your Air Traffic Control Career at Vaughn College

As the first nine graduates move toward FAA facilities and begin the next phase of their training, their success marks a proud moment for Vaughn College and represents a strong signal of what is ahead.

The Enhanced AT-CTI program is not only preparing students for careers. This program is helping strengthen the future of aviation, one controller at a time.

Ready to turn your focus, quick thinking and passion for aviation into a career as an air traffic controller? Apply today!