FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine 
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-25/55

Title and Subtitle: Development of the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy Graduate Competency Model

Report Date: June 2025

Authors: L. Cole, E. A. L. LaRose, A. Shiomichi, E. Lentz, J.D. Barrett, C. Sanders

Abstract:
Air Traffic Controller (ATC) training provides new and previous-experience hires the opportunity to learn and practice various knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required to control air traffic successfully. However, there is a lack of understanding of the minimum competencies and proficiencies new hires possess when they arrive at a field facility, which could influence the field training experience and potentially affect certification rates at the first facility. To address this gap, a competency model was developed for Tower and En Route training options at the FAA Academy. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) conducted research directed by the National Airspace System (NAS) Human Factors Research Division, NAS Human Factors Safety Laboratory, AAM-520, to develop a competency model for the expectations for performance of trainees upon successful completion of the Academy training. In support of this effort, CAMI contracted the services of PDRI by Pearson. The contractor team applied rigorous job analysis methods to develop and validate the competency model. As such, three primary steps were taken: developing a framework and draft competencies and reviewing them with instructors and evaluators, developing and administering a job analysis survey to validate the competencies, and revising the competency model based on the results of the survey. This report provides details on the steps taken to develop the model and present the final model for use within and outside of the FAA.

Key Words: Air Traffic Control, Training, Competency Model

No. of Pages: 57