CTI Crackdown?

TheAviator Newcomer

I graduated from my school back in 2006 with a minor in ATC. I lacked one course that I was told I would be able to take after graduation in order to get the CTI. I recently signed up to take the class, however I got a call from the department head and he told me that the FAA has cracked down on people coming back and taking that one course and I would not be able to do it anymore. He advised me to take the Masters program, I would if I was made of money. Has anyone else heard of anything like this and know why they are doing this?

blakeh Trusted Member SLN

What school are you at? And what one course?

Maybe the FAA is wanting you to major in CTI. I have no idea.

TheAviator Newcomer

erau at 302

rogersjf Trusted Contributor New Jersey

There is no crackdown they are just enforcing the rules more efficiently. Here is the subset of rules to be considered for employment in the CTI program;

To qualify for employment consideration with the FAA, CTI Program graduates must meet all legal and regulatory requirements, including but not limited to the following:

• 1.Be recommended for hiring by a CTI school
• 2.Achieve a qualifying score on the current FAA testing procedures (At-Sat).
• 3.Meet entry-level Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) medical standards.
• 4.Pass pre-employment drug test.
• 5.Pass the background investigation for security and suitability.
• 6.Have United States citizenship.
• 7.May not have reached their 31st birthday prior to initial appointment.
• 8.Complete course work including all CTI-specific required courses before graduation.
• 9.Be able to read, write, and understand the English language and speak it rapidly without accent or impediment of speech.
• 10.Successfully complete the FAA interview process.

I think the rules are being enforced so they can better prepare the lists for the At-Sat and so that they have a better idea of numbers for when people are going to graduate (one of the questions on the papers that has to be submitted upon your beginning of CTI, Anticipated graduation date). Do to the fact that you did not complete all of you CTI course before graduation you cannot be considered, thats why your teacher is saying reapply for the masters and finish up the courses then apply CTI.

TheAviator Newcomer

Wow, that blows the big one. Why couldnt i then sign up for a random associates degree, finish the courses i need for the associates degree (which most of my credits should transfer) take the 1 atc course then graduate with an associates as well. Then I would have completed the requirements before graduation.

rogersjf Trusted Contributor New Jersey

I do not see why you cannot, just check with your school of which degrees offer the CTI program, then reapply and start up your classes and then refill out the papers again with all your new information and anticipated graduation date. Once you grad with your new associates degree you should be good just make sure you get all your classes done and see how many classes will transfer over form your last degree. Also just make sure that you can do that, call HR out in OKC or ask your CTI guy at school, there is no need to go back and get a masters.

TheAviator Newcomer

Yea im with you on that, im trying to do this as cost efficient as possible. ERAU offers a bachelors in Air Traffic Management. I have taken all the courses for the BS degree already minus 3 classes. So im going to call the school tomorrow and see if I cant sign up to major in ATM and take those 3 courses. That would be more worth my while.

nShadowsong Newcomer USA

I agree, I don't think there is a "crackdown." I was in a similar situation. I started taking ATC classes (among other classes) from 2004-2006. I had one more class I needed to take to graduate as CTI, but at the same time had the opportunity to transfer to a university to get a B.A. degree, so I did just that. Fast forward 2 years later (this past spring semester), I went back to the CTI school, took the last class I needed, and just graduated with CTI. So I don't understand why someone would tell you that you need to get a Master's in Aviation Management. Just seems like there IS a way for you to just take you last class.

One last thing. Whereas prior to this year, if you graduate the CTI school, you're automatically recommended to the FAA. Now, the FAA now requires CTI students to take the Capstone Exam before they graduate. You must pass in order for the school to recommend you. We were the guinea pigs.

Go guinea pigs! Hope this helps some.

The Fold Transmitting in the Blind South Florida

I can't tell you how many times they told us "Take 302 if you want the recommendation." its probably in the hundreds. Yes, they changed the schedule around 05, and yes, I understand that, but still, you should of got it done.

TOWER_BOY1 Senior Member brooklyn NY

that sounds a little bogus to me...i think thye just want you spend more money doing the masters program.