The Air Traffic Control Association is an industry group dedicated to advancing the field of air traffic, comprising both civilian and military air safety personnel along with others in the aviation field with an interest in air traffic safety. Along with hosting regular meetings, trade shows and symposiums discussing the latest in educational information, technology and research, the ATCA also offers scholarships for students looking to become an air traffic controller or work in a related field.
Scholarships are available for between $1,500 and $2,000 and are awarded based on need and the amount of worthy candidates who apply each year. Along with scholarships for full-time and part-time students earning a degree in an air traffic control-related field, scholarships are also awarded to full-time employees who are taking courses to enhance their professional skills. In order to qualify, applicants must complete a 400-word essay entitled "How My Education Efforts Will Enhance My Potential Contribution to Aviation."
The Transportation Clubs International is a professional organization representing people in the United States, Mexico and Canada who work in the fields of transportation, logistics and supply chain management. They offer multiple scholarships for study in related fields including air traffic control based on "scholastic ability, potential, professional interest and character."
Along with general scholarships, many scholarships offered by the TCI have narrow focuses or target specific demographics. These include scholarships for residents of Canada and Mexico, students who have previously undertaken educational pursuits in Texas and female students. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Middle Tennessee State University has one of the largest undergraduate aviation departments of any major school in the country, including offering a degree in Flight Dispatch along with an AT-CTI program. While many scholarships are specifically for prospective pilots, several scholarships such as the Metro Nashville Airport Authority Aviation Scholarship are open to all students enrolled in aerospace programs at MTSU, including those pursuing a career in air traffic safety.