Vaughn College to Train FAA Controllers Locally

The Federal Aviation Administration has officially selected Vaughn College in Queens as one of five institutions in a new nationwide initiative allowing FAA controller trainees to complete required training locally rather than in Oklahoma City.

Vaughn becomes the first college in the Northeast to join the program, which aims to address the persistent shortage of air traffic controllers by decentralizing the training pipeline.

FAA officials say the local training sites relieve pressure on the Oklahoma City Academy while maintaining rigorous standards. Vaughn plans to begin training FAA hires as early as September.

Retired controller and Vaughn instructor Steven Fanno called the local approach "as good, if not better" than traditional training, citing smaller class sizes and tailored instruction. The FAA will continue to oversee the curriculum, but Vaughn faculty will lead the teaching.

New hires will still need years of experience at assigned FAA facilities to reach full certification, but the change is expected to improve regional recruitment and retention.