The 4 Levels of Air Traffic Control - Level 3 - First Facility Training - Where Learning Meets Reality episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 8, 2026 · 44 MIN

The 4 Levels of Air Traffic Control - Level 3 - First Facility Training - Where Learning Meets Reality

from The Side by Side ATC Podcast

Graduating from the FAA Academy is a major accomplishment, but it is only the beginning of the next phase of the journey. In this episode of The 4 Levels of Air Traffic Control series, we explore Level 3: First Facility Training and discuss the transition from Academy graduate to developmental controller working toward certification.You’ll learn:Why many trainees are surprised by the challenges of facility training, How the 6 Drivers of ATC Success continue to apply in a real-world operational environment, and What separates successful developmentals from those who struggle. We also discuss the importance of coachability, consistency, and developing the ability to see and anticipate traffic rather than simply applying memorized procedures.Whether you’re preparing to leave the Academy, currently training at your first facility, or mentoring someone who is, this episode will help you better understand one of the most important and challenging stages of an air traffic controller’s career.Thank you all for listening!!FOR HELP:To set up a FREE call: sidebysideatc.com/scheduler/free-consultPre-AcademyIf you are heading to the Academy in the next few months, I put together a structured 90-day preparation blueprint that walks you through exactly what to focus on each month before you go. It's designed to help reduce shock and build confidence before day one. You can download it at: sidebysideatc.com/page/blueprint .I also have a video where I explain the different things that are on the enroute Non-Radar Map. You can get that video at: sidebysideatc.com/page/map-video .Already at the AcademyIf you are already in the enroute radar portion of the Academy and feeling a little behind or lost, I have a 72-Hour Radar Recovery Plan that will help you get past those feelings and start building confidence. You can download that at : sidebysideatc.com/page/72-hourplan .If you are interested in my Coaching Programs, you can get information at :sidebysideatc.com/page/non-radar-lab-programsidebysideatc.com/page/radar-lab-programsidebysideatc.com/page/complete-lab-programorsidebysideatc.com/page/radar-recovery if you are needing help with the beginning of enroute radar.Mentorship ProgramFor information about my mentorship program : https://sidebysideatc.com/page/mentorshipQuestionsYou can email me questions, or comments, at: [email protected] .

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The 4 Levels of Air Traffic Control - Level 3 - First Facility Training - Where Learning Meets Reality

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