March 31, 2017 // National Air Traffic Controllers Association Appoints Director of Public Affairs

WASHINGTON—The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has appointed Thom Metzger as its Director of Public Affairs. The team he oversees at NATCA is responsible for media relations, social media and other digital/web communications, member and public engagement, advertising, and planning for conferences and events.

Metzger brings decades of strategic communications and marketing leadership to the role. He most recently directed public affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration. Prior to that, Metzger led communications and marketing efforts for trade associations representing the waste, recycling, chemical, and plastics industries and a national HIV/AIDS nonprofit.

“It is a privilege to join NATCA and support America’s air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals, who are a vital part of the U.S. transportation system and keep the National Airspace System safe every day,” Metzger said. “A communicator doesn’t always get to advance issues that they personally support. I enthusiastically support NATCA’s mission. The Union’s membership, leadership, and my new colleagues are impressive.”

NATCA President Paul Rinaldi said, “Thom’s wealth of experience makes him a key addition to the Union’s executive team. His appointment demonstrates our commitment to elevating our communications and outreach efforts. I’m confident that Thom will play a key role in NATCA’s efforts to advance the status, professionalism, and working conditions of all air traffic controllers and other aviation safety-related employees.”

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Certified in 1987, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association represents nearly 20,000 highly skilled air traffic controllers, engineers, and other aviation safety-related professionals.

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More information: Doug Church, Director of Communications

301-346-8245 or [email protected]