Angelo State Launches Air Traffic Controller Degree Track to Address National Shortage

SAN ANGELO, TX - Angelo State University students can now train to become air traffic controllers through a new Air Traffic Operations degree track in ASU's Bachelor of Commercial Aviation (B.C.A.) program, which is already accepting students into the new track for the upcoming fall semester.

With the addition of the ATO track, Angelo State's B.C.A. program now offers three options for students to prepare for essential and rewarding careers in the aviation industry:

• Air Traffic Operations
• Flight Operations (pilot)
• Aviation Administration

To integrate the ATO track, ASU will leverage its established aviation curriculum and resources, while also introducing new specialized coursework and simulator training tailored to air traffic control operations. An area of the ASU Rassman Building will be converted this summer into an ATO Simulation Lab.

Establishing the ATO degree track is in direct response to the growing shortage of air traffic controllers and the need for a well-trained workforce to support the aviation industry. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has projected a deficit of over 3,000 air traffic controllers, with a prolonged shortage expected to impact the industry for at least the next decade. The shortage of air traffic controllers has also led to increased workload and fatigue among existing controller staff, raising concerns about aviation safety and operational efficiency.

Additionally, the pathway to becoming a Certified Professional Controller involves extensive training, starting with programs like Angelo State's B.C.A. degree and continuing with qualification training at the FAA Academy and subsequent on-the-job training, which can span several years. These various staffing challenges emphasize the critical need for institutions like ASU to develop programs that prepare students to enter the field well-equipped and ready to meet industry demands.

"The addition of our new Air Traffic Operations track isn't just about growing our program - it's about doing our part to strengthen the future of the aviation industry," said Dr. Scott Turner, B.C.A. program director. "At Angelo State, we're focused on preparing students for careers that are not only in high demand, but also offer real opportunities. This new option reflects our continued commitment to meeting workforce needs and highlights the incredible work our faculty and staff do daily to deliver a career-focused education that truly makes a difference."

By adding the new ATO track to the B.C.A. program, ASU will expand its contribution to the aviation sector, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet workforce demands in air traffic control operations. This will ensure that ASU continues to lead in producing graduates ready to support the broader needs of the aviation industry.

ASU enrolled its first students in the B.C.A. program in the fall of 2021 and produced its first graduates in spring 2024, a year ahead of schedule. There are currently over 200 students enrolled in the program, more than triple the initial predictions. The ASU/Skyline Aviation fleet of Diamond airplanes has expanded to 27, and ASU's new $10 million Aviation Training Facility at San Angelo Regional Airport - Mathis Field opened for classes in January and is nearing completion later this spring.