From my research you still have to go through the Academy, this only saves you from taking the Basics course, costs $50k for 1 year as opposed to getting paid to attend the academy basics course and earn pay. Some say you can use the AATC to get in as staff, earn 52 weeks of experience, and then apply to FAA under prior experience bid.Advanced ATC in Valdosta, GA offers a CTO program if you're willing to shell out the $50k Sallie Mae student loan (they don't allow 9/11 GI Bill).