Embry-Riddle Prepares Future Air Traffic Professionals

Transforming Air Traffic Management

To modernize air traffic management, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched the Next Generation Air Transportation System in 2004, increasing safety and efficiency while reducing environmental impact by transitioning from ground-based radar to satellite technology and real-time data sharing.

The initiative highlighted the need for a collaborative facility where industry, academia and government could test and demonstrate new technologies. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University stepped in to fill that need.

Florida Test Bed Facility

The Florida Test Bed (FTB) facility was established in 2008 to oversee and integrate projects that require advanced concepts to be tested and validated in real-world operations, moving beyond traditional laboratory environments.

Near the Daytona Beach International Airport and adjacent to Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus, the FTB is a 10,000+ square-foot FAA aviation research facility with an adaptable, scalable design that provides secure, private space to experiment with new air traffic management technologies.

Continuing Industry Advancements

In February of 2026, a team from Embry‑Riddle participated in an FAA project to assess new digital communication systems designed to enhance information sharing between flight crews, air traffic control and airline operations centers.

David Wanner (’26) was one of the students who assisted with coordinating support, reviewing documentation and executing meetings.

“The work I was entrusted with not only advanced the project but also provided me with real-world research and project management experience," Wanner said. “Embry-Riddle’s decision to involve students in this level of applied research speaks volumes about its commitment to preparing students for professional roles.”

Anupama (Sigma) Kar (’27) also participated in the program. She said the experience expanded her insight into how technical, operational and human decisions impact the National Airspace System.

“Through the project, I saw how pilots, engineers and program managers aligned on key performance indicators,” Kar said. “The project management skills and tools I learn here at the Florida Test Bed are unparalleled and have been a game-changer for me.”

The FTB is just one of the ways Embry-Riddle offers students hands-on learning with industry professionals and advanced technology.

Air Traffic Management Program Pipeline

In 2025, the FAA signed an agreement allowing Embry-Riddle to participate in the Enhanced Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) through an Associate of Science or a Bachelor of Science in Air Traffic Management. Both degrees are offered at the Prescott, Arizona, and Daytona Beach, Florida, campuses.

Under this agreement, Air Traffic Management graduates are eligible for direct entry into controller training upon successful completion of the Air Traffic Skills Assessment exam (ATSA) and fulfillment of all FAA requirements.

“This approval provides recognition of the world-class education we provide here at Embry‑Riddle and lets us help the FAA solve air traffic controller shortages,” Air Traffic Management Program Coordinator Dr. Mike McCormick said. “But it also benefits our students by giving them alternatives, plus the ability to get hired quickly after graduation.”

To qualify as an AT-CTI school, Embry-Riddle underwent a thorough audit to ensure its curriculum and technology met the FAA Academy's standards. Students in the program can now prepare and take the ATSA on campus. This new, accelerated pathway allows the FAA to address air traffic controller shortages and benefits Embry-Riddle students, saving them money and streamlining their transition into the workforce.

Jump on the fast track to a career in air traffic management today!