NATCA Members Take the Spotlight: Mastering Media Training in D.C.

NATCA Members convened in Washington Nov. 14-15 for an intensive media training session designed to hone their communication skills and ability to speak on behalf of our Union with members of the news media.

The training was facilitated by Director of Public Affairs Thom Metzger, Deputy Director of Public Affairs Galen Munroe, and Senior Social Media Representative Meagan Roper. During the training, NATCA President Rich Santa spoke to the class members, offering updates on NATCA national activities and thanking them for their dedication and participation.

The training incorporated lessons on engaging with the media, strategies for effective interviews, and best practices for representing NATCA and aviation safety professions. Participants engaged in classroom-based learning and practical exercises in a professional television studio setting. The interactive sessions included on-camera interviews, allowing members to put their skills into practice.

The training was attended by a diverse group of members from around the country: Allen Casey (Houston TRACON, I90), Lisa Cunningham (Kansas City International ATCT, MCI), Mike Driscoll (Daytona Beach International ATCT, DAB), Justin Ferrell (Dallas/Fort Worth International ATCT, DFW), Kurtis Fotheringham (Providence ATCT, PVD), Charles Howell (Oakland Center, ZOA), Nick Marangos (Boston Center, A90), Jen McCoy (Tampa International ATCT, TPA), Mark Rausch (Engineer/Northwest Mountain Region, ENM), Matt Scala (Denver TRACON, D01), Bridget Singratanakul (Dallas/Fort Worth International ATCT, DFW), Dean Von Almen (Chicago O’Hare ATCT, C90), and Aaron Wilt (Washington Center, ZDC).

With looming government shutdowns, the staffing crisis, and evolving aviation technology, NATCA’s dedication to providing its members with the tools to effectively communicate with the media is a high priority, ensuring that the voice of air traffic professionals continues to be heard and respected.