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Air Traffic Controllers

SOC 53-2021.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers air traffic control operations in tower, terminal radar, and en-route environments from initial credentialed entry through facility leadership, encompassing communication, safety management, emergency response, and workforce development.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Pilot hazard notifications — identify and relay basic weather, wind, and visibility conditions to pilots under direct supervisor guidance in a training tower environment.
  2. Landing and take-off authorizations — issue standard clearances following scripted protocols under continuous oversight during simulated or entry-level live operations.
  3. Flight transfer procedures — recognize the steps for transferring departing flights to en-route centers and accepting arriving flights under close supervision in a controlled facility.
  4. Radar and visual reference tools — operate basic radar displays and computer equipment to locate aircraft positions within an assigned airspace under trainer direction.
  5. Traffic pattern instructions — direct pilots to maintain holding patterns when runways are occupied, following established scripts with supervisor review of each transmission.
  6. Emergency alert activation — identify emergency situations and initiate contact with airport emergency services using standard protocols under the guidance of a certified controller.
  7. Radio communication standards — apply correct phraseology and readback procedures during routine pilot communications in a live or simulated tower cab setting.
  8. Aircraft movement monitoring — track ground and airborne traffic within a limited sector using flight strips and display systems with regular check-ins from a supervising controller.
  9. Weather data interpretation — read and report basic meteorological information from automated weather observing systems to flight crews during routine shift operations.
  10. Separation standards awareness — recognize minimum lateral and vertical separation requirements between aircraft and flag potential conflicts for immediate supervisor review.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Pilot hazard advisories — communicate weather, turbulence, and visibility hazards to multiple flight crews concurrently with reduced oversight during routine operational traffic loads.
  2. Takeoff and landing clearances — issue sequenced departure and arrival authorizations accurately and independently across moderate traffic volumes in a terminal radar or tower environment.
  3. Sector handoff coordination — execute smooth transfer of flight data and communications between adjacent control positions and centers with minimal supervisory intervention.
  4. Radar monitoring and conflict detection — scan assigned airspace continuously using radar and flight control software to identify developing conflicts and apply timely corrective vectors.
  5. Emergency flight path guidance — provide alternate routing and diversion instructions to pilots experiencing in-flight emergencies or severe weather encounters in familiar airspace configurations.
  6. Emergency services notification — coordinate with airport rescue and firefighting services, relaying accurate aircraft position and situation data during declared or developing emergencies.
  7. Ground traffic sequencing — direct aircraft and vehicles on taxiways and aprons to maintain efficient flow and prevent incursions during peak departure and arrival banks.
  8. Traffic flow optimization — adjust spacing and sequencing of arriving and departing aircraft to minimize delays while sustaining safety margins during standard busy-period operations.
  9. Flight strip and data management — maintain accurate, up-to-date flight progress information using document management and database software throughout a full operational shift.
  10. Inter-facility communication — coordinate with approach, departure, and en-route sectors via telecommunications systems to manage hand-offs and special-use airspace restrictions.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex hazard advisories — assess and communicate multiple simultaneous weather and traffic hazards to diverse flight crews autonomously across a full shift in high-density airspace.
  2. Non-standard clearance issuance — develop and issue amended routing, altitude, and speed clearances for non-routine scenarios, including military operations and special-event airspace, without supervisor input.
  3. Multi-sector traffic management — manage the complete flow of arrivals, departures, and overflights across an entire terminal or en-route sector independently during peak and off-peak periods.
  4. Emergency scenario management — execute full emergency response sequences, including pilot guidance, emergency service activation, and facility notifications, for complex in-flight emergencies with minimal delay.
  5. Systems performance evaluation — assess the operational effectiveness of radar, flight control software, and communications equipment and recommend corrective actions when system degradation affects safety.
  6. Adverse-condition traffic handling — maintain safe and efficient traffic flows during significant weather deviations, equipment outages, or runway closures through real-time problem solving and contingency routing.
  7. Situational awareness under high workload — sustain accurate mental models of all traffic within assigned airspace during peak operations, applying selective attention and time-sharing skills to prevent conflicts.
  8. Cross-facility coordination leadership — lead real-time coordination with adjacent ATC facilities, airline operations centers, and military agencies during airspace events requiring multi-party solutions.
  9. Training progress assessment — evaluate trainee controller performance objectively using established certification criteria and provide structured feedback during on-the-job training sessions.
  10. Regulatory compliance assurance — apply FAA orders, procedures, and Letters of Agreement accurately in all operational decisions, ensuring full regulatory compliance throughout complex traffic scenarios.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Facility-wide safety strategy — establish and champion safety management initiatives, hazard identification programs, and quality assurance processes across an entire ATC facility to sustain organizational safety culture.
  2. Controller workforce development — design and oversee structured on-the-job training curricula and certification pathways, mentoring developing controllers to full operational capability at facility and sector level.
  3. Airspace design and optimization — lead collaborative reviews of sector boundaries, traffic flow procedures, and Letters of Agreement to improve capacity, efficiency, and safety across a regional airspace structure.
  4. Emergency preparedness planning — develop and exercise facility-wide emergency response plans covering equipment failures, security threats, and mass-casualty events in coordination with airport authority and federal agencies.
  5. Technology integration leadership — evaluate and champion the adoption of new radar, flight control, and data management technologies, guiding staff through transition and ensuring operational continuity.
  6. Performance metrics and accountability — define key operational performance indicators, analyze facility-level data using ERP and reporting tools, and present findings to FAA management to drive continuous improvement.
  7. Cross-agency policy coordination — represent the facility in negotiations with airline stakeholders, military commanders, and regulatory bodies to align airspace use policies with national air traffic management goals.
  8. Staffing and resource planning — direct workforce scheduling, position qualification tracking, and contingency staffing strategies to sustain 24-hour facility operations under variable traffic and personnel demands.
  9. Organizational resilience during crises — lead real-time facility-level decision-making during major weather events, national security incidents, or infrastructure failures, maintaining safe operations and coordinating with the ATCSCC.
  10. Industry knowledge dissemination — author procedural guidance, present at aviation safety conferences, and collaborate with academic or training institutions to advance best practices across the air traffic control profession.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-parsed weather alerts — reviews automatically generated hazard summaries before relaying visibility, wind, and weather conditions to pilots, treating the AI output as a secondary reference rather than a primary source Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Traffic conflict detection — uses AI-assisted separation advisory tools to cross-check manually assessed flight paths, applying critical thinking to confirm or override system recommendations before issuing clearances Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Emergency protocol lookup — queries an AI assistant to surface emergency landing field options and relevant NOTAMs during time-pressured situations, then applies occupational judgment to select the appropriate course of action WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Handoff coordination support — directs AI scheduling tools to pre-sequence departure and arrival transfer windows, retaining full authority over all control acceptance and release decisions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Situational monitoring augmentation — integrates AI-flagged traffic density alerts into active sector monitoring, filtering false positives through practiced pattern recognition before alerting emergency services or adjacent controllers Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Communication load reduction — delegates routine read-back confirmation logging to AI transcription tools, freeing cognitive bandwidth for complex problem solving during high-traffic periods WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Human-AI workflow design — evaluates and refines the decision logic of AI conflict-alert systems against real-sector performance data, advising facility management on where automation boundaries must remain under human control given the Q2 augmented nature of core ATC skills Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Cross-facility AI integration oversight — coordinates with adjacent centers on standardized AI-assisted data-link protocols, ensuring that automated flight-path change suggestions conform to procedural requirements before propagating across control boundaries WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Training curriculum for AI tool use — develops scenario-based exercises that teach junior controllers to critically interrogate AI separation advisories rather than defer to them, grounded in the moderate automation feasibility of active listening and judgment tasks in this occupation Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Radio transmission basics — delivers standard phraseology to pilots using correct format and terminology during supervised low-traffic periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Weather advisory delivery — conveys basic wind, visibility, and hazard information to flight crews using established scripts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Readback verification — listens for pilot readback of clearances and flags obvious discrepancies under instructor supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Clearance issuance — issues departure and arrival instructions to multiple aircraft using precise, unambiguous language with minimal corrections required Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hazard notification — communicates weather, traffic conflicts, and airspace restrictions to pilots clearly and in priority order during moderate-traffic conditions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Inter-facility coordination — transfers and accepts flight control between adjacent sectors and centers using standardized coordination protocols O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-aircraft instruction — delivers simultaneous, sequenced instructions to several aircraft in assigned airspace with clarity and without contradiction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency communication — provides calm, structured guidance to pilots declaring emergencies, including alternate landing field vectors and safety information Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-team briefing — communicates traffic flow status and handoff conditions accurately to oncoming controller shifts during position relief Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex traffic narrative — articulates intricate traffic scenarios and flow strategies to supervisors, trainees, and adjacent facilities to coordinate large-scale operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication standard-setting — mentors developing controllers on radio discipline, phraseology precision, and listener-adapted messaging in high-density airspace Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Emergency scenario debrief — leads post-incident communication reviews, identifying breakdowns in pilot-controller exchange and recommending corrective protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-directed task initiation — takes ownership of assigned aircraft within a limited sector under direct supervision without waiting for repeated prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety awareness leadership — proactively flags potential conflicts to supervising controllers rather than waiting for instruction to act Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sector ownership — accepts full responsibility for traffic separation and sequencing within an assigned sector during standard-complexity traffic periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency services activation — independently alerts airport emergency services and coordinates response without supervisor prompting when aircraft report difficulties O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Traffic flow authority — directs aircraft routing, sequencing, and spacing decisions across multiple aircraft simultaneously, taking accountability for outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift handover leadership — briefs relief controllers on active traffic situations, potential conflicts, and ongoing coordination, ensuring seamless continuity of operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Trainee guidance — supervises student controllers at the position, providing real-time correction and development feedback during live traffic Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Facility-level operational leadership — assumes lead controller or traffic management unit roles during high-complexity events, coordinating sector strategies across the facility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture stewardship — models and reinforces safety-first decision-making standards that influence facility-wide controller behavior and procedural adherence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis leadership — directs multi-agency response during simultaneous emergencies, maintaining command of airspace while coordinating with emergency services and adjacent facilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition9 statements
Emerging
  1. Situational self-assessment — recognizes personal workload limits during training simulations and requests assistance before errors escalate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error reflection — identifies specific mistakes made during debriefs and articulates what cognitive gap or distraction contributed to the error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Workload monitoring — tracks personal cognitive load in real time and proactively adjusts scan patterns or requests sector relief when capacity is exceeded Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy adaptation — adjusts personal study and simulation practice approaches based on feedback from certification check rides and performance reviews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Attention allocation review — evaluates own scanning and prioritization strategies after complex traffic events to identify where focus was misplaced Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance pattern recognition — identifies recurring personal error tendencies under specific traffic conditions and self-corrects procedural habits accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Stress-state awareness — monitors own physiological and cognitive stress signals during high-density traffic and applies targeted regulation strategies to maintain accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling — explicitly teaches developing controllers to recognize their own cognitive overload signals and self-regulate before errors occur Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic performance analysis — synthesizes personal and team performance data across multiple events to identify facility-level cognitive demand patterns and recommend process improvements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Conflict identification — detects basic altitude or lateral separation violations using radar data during supervised low-traffic practice sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Rule application — applies standard separation minima and procedural rules to straightforward traffic scenarios without deviation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Traffic conflict resolution — evaluates multiple resolution options for converging aircraft and selects the safest, most efficient instruction set under time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Weather impact assessment — analyzes reported and forecast weather conditions to anticipate routing constraints and proactively adjust traffic flow O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Equipment anomaly evaluation — identifies when radar, radio, or computer data appears inconsistent and determines whether to rely on alternative information sources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-variable scenario analysis — simultaneously evaluates aircraft speed, altitude, heading, weather, and airspace restrictions to make separation decisions in dynamic airspace Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Assumption challenge — questions pilot position reports or transponder data when they conflict with radar returns, initiating verification before acting on potentially false information Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Emergency option assessment — rapidly evaluates available runways, weather, aircraft capability, and emergency type to select optimal landing solution for distressed aircraft O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic failure reasoning — diagnoses root causes of traffic flow breakdowns across sectors and identifies procedural or systemic assumptions that contributed to the event Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Policy gap identification — critically evaluates existing facility procedures against edge-case scenarios encountered in operations and proposes evidence-based procedural revisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Sector team coordination — shares relevant traffic information with adjacent position controllers during low-traffic supervised operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Supervisor engagement — actively seeks guidance from on-duty supervisors when encountering unfamiliar traffic situations rather than acting in isolation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Inter-sector handoff coordination — negotiates traffic transfer terms with adjacent sector controllers, aligning on altitude, speed, and routing before transferring control O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency services integration — collaborates with airport emergency services by relaying accurate aircraft information and coordinating response positioning during declared emergencies O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Flow management collaboration — works with traffic management units and adjacent facility controllers to implement ground delay programs and reroutes that minimize system-wide delays O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-shift knowledge transfer — partners with incoming controller team to share traffic state, pending coordination, and unusual conditions, enabling seamless operational continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Pilot-controller partnership — builds effective real-time working relationship with diverse flight crews, adapting communication style to carrier, general aviation, and military operators Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Facility coordination leadership — leads inter-facility collaborative decision-making sessions during volume or weather events, aligning multiple ATC units on a unified traffic strategy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-agency exercise collaboration — coordinates with military, TSA, and emergency management partners during security or mass-casualty scenarios, integrating ATC capability into joint response plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Procedural integrity — follows all FAA separation standards and facility procedures without taking unauthorized shortcuts during training and supervised operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest error reporting — self-reports mistakes and near-miss events to supervisors accurately and promptly without minimizing or concealing facts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in conflict — accepts full responsibility for separation errors without deflecting blame to pilots or equipment when post-event reviews identify controller fault Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety-over-convenience ethic — prioritizes aircraft separation standards over traffic flow efficiency when the two are in tension, even under pressure from airline operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Consistent professional conduct — maintains composure, neutrality, and procedural adherence across all traffic conditions, pilot attitudes, and operational pressures without variation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Fatigue disclosure — proactively informs supervisors when fatigue, illness, or distraction compromises cognitive readiness, accepting relief to protect public safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Confidentiality and data integrity — handles sensitive flight data, security information, and incident records according to regulatory and organizational standards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical standard modeling — demonstrates and articulates the ethical foundations of ATC safety culture to newer controllers, reinforcing that no traffic pressure justifies procedural compromise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Whistleblower courage — reports observed violations of safety procedures or regulatory requirements through appropriate channels even when doing so is organizationally uncomfortable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative routing exploration — considers non-standard vectors or altitude assignments to resolve simple conflicts when standard solutions are unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem framing — identifies that a developing traffic situation requires an unconventional approach and articulates the constraint driving the need for creative resolution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Improvised sequencing — constructs non-standard arrival or departure sequences during runway or taxiway closures to maintain flow with reduced airport capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Weather routing innovation — develops creative reroutes around dynamic weather cells that preserve separation while minimizing delay and fuel burn for multiple aircraft O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Emergency solution design — constructs novel emergency landing plans for aircraft with unusual combinations of failures, factoring in terrain, weather, airport suitability, and aircraft performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Traffic metering creativity — designs dynamic sequencing strategies during volume events that balance competing priorities of safety, efficiency, and airline schedule impact Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Procedural innovation — develops new sector flow strategies or coordination protocols in response to emerging airspace structures or new aircraft performance profiles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training scenario design — creates realistic, challenging simulation scenarios that expose developing controllers to edge cases not covered in standard curriculum, expanding facility training capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — receives instructor critique of radio technique, sequencing decisions, and scan patterns without defensiveness and adjusts behavior in subsequent attempts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Simulation persistence — repeats challenging traffic scenarios in the simulator until separation standards are met consistently rather than avoiding difficult configurations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Certification setback recovery — responds to failed check rides or training setbacks by analyzing specific deficiencies and constructing a focused remediation plan Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill stretch acceptance — volunteers for complex or unfamiliar sector assignments when workload permits in order to expand operational proficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Technology adaptation — embraces new radar, automation, and communication technologies introduced at the facility and seeks proficiency proactively before mandatory transition deadlines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-incident learning — treats every operational error or near-miss as a structured learning event, extracting specific lessons that inform future decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Continuing education engagement — pursues supplemental training in areas such as meteorology, new aircraft performance, or airspace redesign to deepen operational expertise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — institutionalizes post-event learning practices within the facility team, normalizing error analysis as professional development rather than punitive review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-facility learning — seeks exposure to procedures and traffic management strategies at adjacent or more complex facilities and imports applicable insights to improve local practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention anchoring — focuses scanning attention on assigned aircraft and radar returns without distraction during supervised low-traffic practice sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pre-shift preparation — arrives at position with full awareness of current traffic picture, ATIS conditions, and active NOTAMs before accepting control Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Distraction management — maintains focus on aircraft control and separation during environmental distractions such as facility noise, equipment alerts, or personnel movement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — manages frustration or anxiety triggered by pilot non-compliance or equipment issues without allowing emotional state to degrade instruction quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Present-state traffic awareness — maintains continuous mental model of all aircraft in assigned airspace, updating it in real time as positions, altitudes, and intentions change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional communication pacing — controls transmission rate and tone deliberately during high-workload events to preserve clarity and prevent pilot confusion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Transition mindfulness — re-establishes full situational awareness deliberately after position relief, breaks, or sector consolidation before accepting independent control Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindfulness mentoring — coaches developing controllers in attention regulation and mental model maintenance techniques, using facility-specific traffic patterns as practice contexts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational stress awareness — identifies signs of facility-wide attentional fatigue or mindfulness degradation during sustained high-tempo operations and advocates for staffing and rest interventions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Sustained focus under pressure — maintains procedural adherence and scan discipline during busy training simulations even when multiple conflicts develop simultaneously Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. First-emergency composure — responds to initial declared emergency scenarios in simulation without freezing or abandoning separation responsibility for other aircraft Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Prolonged high-density endurance — sustains accurate traffic control performance across a full shift during volume events without degradation in separation standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse weather persistence — continues providing safe, accurate sequencing and routing during extended weather events that significantly complicate traffic management O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-emergency resilience — manages simultaneous declared emergencies involving multiple aircraft while maintaining control of all other sector traffic without requesting unnecessary relief Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment failure continuity — maintains airspace safety and communication with pilots during partial radar or radio outages using contingency procedures until systems are restored Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Post-incident return to duty — resumes full operational effectiveness after a serious near-miss or incident review without lasting performance impairment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis endurance leadership — sustains command of airspace and calm coordination of multi-agency response across extended emergency events, supporting team stability under extreme operational stress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Institutional adversity navigation — maintains professional performance and safety standards during periods of facility understaffing, labor disputes, or organizational uncertainty Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Access Control Specialist · Air Route Controller · Air Route Traffic Controller · Air Traffic Control Operator · Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) · Air Traffic Control Support Specialist (ATC Support Specialist) · Air Traffic Controller (ATC) · Air Traffic Coordinator · Air Traffic Manager · Aircraft Communicator · Airline Dispatcher · Airport Tower Controller
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingJudgment and Decision MakingCritical ThinkingMonitoringComplex Problem SolvingCoordinationActive LearningReading ComprehensionTime ManagementSocial PerceptivenessOperations MonitoringSystems AnalysisInstructingService OrientationSystems EvaluationWritingLearning Strategies
Knowledge domains
TransportationEnglish LanguagePublic Safety and SecurityEducation and TrainingCustomer and Personal ServiceGeographyTelecommunicationsMathematics
Abilities
Problem SensitivityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionSelective AttentionDeductive ReasoningSpeed of ClosureInductive ReasoningFlexibility of ClosureNear VisionTime Sharing
Work styles
CautiousnessAttention to DetailStress ToleranceSelf-ControlDependabilityIntegrity
Technology
Document management softwareExpert system softwareFlight control softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareData base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems.
  2. Issue landing and take-off authorizations or instructions.
  3. Transfer control of departing flights to traffic control centers and accept control of arriving flights.
  4. Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.
  5. Alert airport emergency services in cases of emergency or when aircraft are experiencing difficulties.
  6. Monitor or direct the movement of aircraft within an assigned air space or on the ground at airports to minimize delays and maximize safety.
  7. Direct pilots to runways when space is available or direct them to maintain a traffic pattern until there is space for them to land.
  8. Monitor aircraft within a specific airspace, using radar, computer equipment, or visual references.
CIP education codes
49.0105

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.