Air Traffic Control Association Inc.

Written by Charlie Copeland

The Air Traffic Control Association, Inc. (ATCA) is a professional organization that plays a pivotal role in the field of air traffic control and the broader air traffic management (ATM) sector. Founded in 1956, ATCA's mission is to advance the safety, security, efficiency, and technology of airspace systems worldwide through education, advocacy, and networking. Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, ATCA serves a diverse international membership that includes individuals working in air traffic control, government agencies, academic institutions, and industry partners involved in the development, operation, and maintenance of the global air traffic management system.

ATCA is committed to fostering progress and innovation within the air traffic control profession and the aviation industry at large. The association accomplishes this through a variety of initiatives, including:

  1. Conferences and Events: ATCA organizes numerous conferences, symposia, and exhibitions throughout the year, providing platforms for professionals to share knowledge, discuss industry trends, and explore new technologies. The ATCA Annual Conference and Exhibition is particularly notable, bringing together thousands of attendees from around the world for in-depth discussions and networking opportunities.
  2. Advocacy and Policy: ATCA engages in advocacy efforts to influence policy and regulatory decisions that impact the air traffic control community and the wider aviation sector. By representing the interests of its members at the national and international levels, ATCA ensures that the voices of air traffic control professionals are heard in critical debates and decision-making processes.
  3. Education and Professional Development: The association offers various educational resources, training programs, and professional development opportunities designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of air traffic control professionals. These initiatives cater to a range of experience levels, from entry-level personnel to seasoned experts.
  4. Awards and Scholarships: ATCA recognizes excellence and achievement in the air traffic control field through its awards program, which honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to improving airspace safety and efficiency. Additionally, the association supports the next generation of aviation professionals through scholarships for students pursuing studies in air traffic control and related disciplines.
  5. Publications: ATCA keeps its members and the wider aerospace community informed about the latest developments, research findings, and best practices in air traffic management through its publications, including the highly respected "The Journal of Air Traffic Control."

As a central hub for collaboration and knowledge exchange, ATCA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of air traffic control and management. Through its comprehensive approach to professional support, advocacy, and innovation, the Air Traffic Control Association, Inc. contributes significantly to the ongoing advancement and safety of global aviation operations.


Scholarships:

Air Traffic Control Association Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
$5,000 - $15.000
Deadline
24-May
Grade Level
College & Graduate Students

The ATCA Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to outstanding aviation students and children of air traffic controllers. ATCA's wonderful candidates, exceptional winners, and generous scholarship partners and donors are the ones who make it...

Buckingham Memorial Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
Varies
Deadline
24-May
Grade Level
College & Graduate Students

The ATCA Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to outstanding aviation students and children of air traffic controllers. ATCA's wonderful candidates, exceptional winners, and generous scholarship partners and donors are the ones who make it...

Gabriel A. Hartl Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
Varies
Deadline
24-May
Grade Level
College Students

The ATCA Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to outstanding aviation students and children of air traffic controllers. ATCA's wonderful candidates, exceptional winners, and generous scholarship partners and donors are the ones who make it...

Lawrence C. Fortier Memorial Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
Varies
Deadline
24-May
Grade Level
College & Graduate Students

The ATCA Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to outstanding aviation students and children of air traffic controllers. ATCA's wonderful candidates, exceptional winners, and generous scholarship partners and donors are the ones who make it...

Full-Time Employee Student Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
Varies
Deadline
24-May
Grade Level
Graduate Students

The ATCA Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to outstanding aviation students and children of air traffic controllers. ATCA's wonderful candidates, exceptional winners, and generous scholarship partners and donors are the ones who make it...