Service + Solidarity Spotlight: NATCA Inspires the Next Generation of Air Traffic Controllers

Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service + Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) continued its commitment to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and sparking students’ interest in the air traffic control profession when it provided a simulator lab at two Philadelphia-area high schools. Using an innovative, multitouch interface, students were able to listen, control and learn how to safely navigate aircraft as a controller.

“I love doing these events,” said NATCA President Rich Santa (pictured above, standing). “The students are very interested and eager to learn. They asked about our professions, and many of them are considering STEM fields as their careers after high school. The team we had also did a fantastic job working with the students and teaching them about the National Airspace System.”