FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-22/02

Title and Subtitle: Perceptions of Factors Influencing Effectiveness of ATC Field Training

Report Date: February 2022

Authors: Charla L. Long

Abstract: Researchers conducted a study to gain a holistic understanding of the factors impacting field training success for Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) by examining the different perspectives of training team members and to guide the eventual implementation of the Training Standards at field facilities. The goal of the research was to identify 1) reasons trainees, who demonstrate the aptitude for ATC and complete FAA Academy training, still struggle with field training certification, 2) ascertain the internal factors challenging trainees from certifying at their first facility, and 3) identify the external factors impacting training success in order to guide policy and procedure changes or best practices to be implemented during field training. Five surveys, based on job role, were disseminated to 353 training team members at six field facilities (2 ARTCC and 4 TRACONs) focusing on background, preparation, process, workload, training feedback, and interpersonal dynamics. The study is not intended to result in sweeping, NAS-wide recommendations and changes due to the limited sample size. A sample of the survey questions, included in this report, comprised of scaled measures and open-ended comments. Five new themes emerged from the data: Academy Training, the Field Training Program and the OJTI Experience, Workload, Stress Management, and Interpersonal Dynamics. Respondents emphasized the need for training content and instruction to be updated; field training to be implemented for new arrivals immediately following placement; selecting, placing, and supporting OJTIs; providing stress management training; and reinforcing positive relationships within the facility. Recommendations include updating training content using a scheduled refresh cycle to maintain currency of information, selecting and training instructors and OJTIs, implementing and adhering to training standards, recognizing the impact of OJTIs on trainee experience, and implementing workplace culture improvements through training and facility support. Additional research could be conducted to validate the findings with supervisors and managers, identify differences in facilities with high versus low certification rates, and/or evaluate success of a facility who implements these recommendations.

Key Words: Air Traffic Controller, FAA Academy, field training, instructor, simulation, OJTI, workload, stress management, interpersonal dynamics, training team

No. of Pages: 117