91
NOTAMs / VATUSA New Hire!
« on: April 22, 2011, 06:39:45 AM »
Glad to have you aboard Michael. The work backlog must be amazing .....
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92
General Discussion / Correction to Basic ATC Training Resource
« on: March 17, 2011, 05:32:17 AM »
The first and last URLs above are done. The other will take some time, because the link to the next or previous chapter is embedded and uses the same label, so it will take some reworking.
I'm working through some of the font issues but it's tedious and I'll get to it as I can.
Thanks.
EDIT: I think I managed to get all the corrections in the S1 material, but I was a bit cross-eyed at the end. Please advise if there are any remaining problems. I know the "TIPH" reference still remains in the "next" and "previous" links, but I can't fix those at the moment.
I'm working through some of the font issues but it's tedious and I'll get to it as I can.
Thanks.
EDIT: I think I managed to get all the corrections in the S1 material, but I was a bit cross-eyed at the end. Please advise if there are any remaining problems. I know the "TIPH" reference still remains in the "next" and "previous" links, but I can't fix those at the moment.
93
General Discussion / Correction to Basic ATC Training Resource
« on: March 15, 2011, 06:05:01 PM »
OK thank you for that. I will get to it as soon as I can.
94
The Classroom (Controller Tips) / Understanding Handoffs and Coordination
« on: March 07, 2011, 09:31:11 AM »
Great stuff. Thanks AJ.
95
General Discussion / Correction to Basic ATC Training Resource
« on: March 07, 2011, 08:57:34 AM »
I've made a bunch of updates/corrections in the TRC. Please keep posting if you find errors or other matters.
Thanks!
Thanks!
96
The Flight Deck / general flight questions regarding jets
« on: February 25, 2011, 09:50:58 AM »
Johnathan, welcome to the network!
To add to the information that Ken provided, VFR altitudes are generally IFR altitudes plus 500'
(1) On a magnetic course of zero degrees through 179 degrees, any odd thousand foot MSL altitude +500 feet (such as 3,500, 5,500, or 7,500); or
(2) On a magnetic course of 180 degrees through 359 degrees, any even thousand foot MSL altitude +500 feet (such as 4,500, 6,500, or 8,500).
IFR Altitudes are as above but without the 500' additions, and increase to 2000' at flight level 410 (41,000').
To add to the information that Ken provided, VFR altitudes are generally IFR altitudes plus 500'
(1) On a magnetic course of zero degrees through 179 degrees, any odd thousand foot MSL altitude +500 feet (such as 3,500, 5,500, or 7,500); or
(2) On a magnetic course of 180 degrees through 359 degrees, any even thousand foot MSL altitude +500 feet (such as 4,500, 6,500, or 8,500).
IFR Altitudes are as above but without the 500' additions, and increase to 2000' at flight level 410 (41,000').
97
General Discussion / Correction to Basic ATC Training Resource
« on: February 18, 2011, 06:27:55 PM »
Thank you for that, and welcome to the network!
I'll get it fixed as soon as I regain access, which is intermittent.
I'll get it fixed as soon as I regain access, which is intermittent.
98
General Discussion / Where's Management?
« on: January 12, 2011, 08:33:16 AM »
This is my last visit to this thread. For those who insist that if they don't see what staff members are doing, they're doing nothing, I have responsibility for eight ARTCCs. Among the routine tasks that I deal with are these:
The turnover of ATMs in the network is relatively frequent. Each time that happens, the ATD may participate in an exit interview, and at least discuss possible replacement recommendations from the outgoing ATM. He will then cause an announcement to be posted, review applications, conduct interviews each of which lasts 30 minutes or more, make a selection, install that individual, and provide support and orientation while the new ATM settles in.
Every ARTCC experiences occasional problem controllers at one time or another; some more often depending upon their size and complexity. These generally require intervention and or support of the ATD; he may mediate disputes, prepare evidence to present to a DCRM, and remain engaged in the resolution of the dispute.
Pilots occasionally make complaints regarding controller actions or ARTCC policy. These are generally settled with explanation or possibly some revision of standard practices. The process involves multiple emails, possible meetings, and if a revision of policy, review and approval.
ATDs review proposed SOP submitted by ARTCCs for alignment with VATUSA, VATNA and VATSIM policy such as the GRP. In some cases this may require consultation with the director and/or meetings.
ATDs review and approve proposed LOAs. In some cases these can require considerable input and revision, as in the case of LOAs with a VSOA. In one recent such matter, at least 60 emails were involved between a VSOA, an ARTCC, the ATD, VATUSA and VATSIM.
ATDs conduct regular checks of the VATUSA member management system to ensure that members do not wait unreasonable time for transfers and other matters.
ATDs conduct background checks and approve ARTCC senior staff selections.
ATDs maintain a presence in both VATUSA and VATSIM forums, and regularly respond to items of importance to their area of responsibility.
New members to the network consistently fail to read instructions or make appropriate selections when signing up initially. ATD's receive frequent email from individuals who signed up with the wrong facility, or don't like waiting for training, or don't think a test was fair, or don't want to wait seven days, or whatever. These emails are commonly received just about every day. Each of them requires a little research to determine the facts, may require checking with other staff, and each of them requires a response.
I've been called upon while an ATD to create a sector file from scratch, SOP, POF file, and other data that goes into establishing an ARTCC/FIR where none existed before.
I do my utmost to provide immediate response to emails from ARTCC staff. Not a day goes by that email of one sort or another is not received. It is my goal to answer them all without delay.
I've been an ATD for several years in two regions, before which I was an ATM. At one point one major ARTCC had internal strife and conflict to the point that its upper staff all left. It fell to me to fill in as interim ATM for almost two months while also fulfilling ATD responsibilities for the other ARTCCs in my region.
Aside from these ATD matters, I am a VATSIM supervisor and generate a number of hours in that endeavor each month. For the year 2010 that was 180 hours. I also have visiting privileges in nine facilities; some because they are in my region and I can help with events etc., others where I have been assigned before or facilities I instruct in; during 2010 I logged 340 hours controlling, mostly at Center level. As mentioned I also continue to instruct students. And I fly online, a regular member of two active vAs.
For more than a year I have been the interim VATUSA training director. As such I review every instructor application and upon approval process the instructor appointment; same for instructor removals, TA applications, appointments and removals. I am slowly revising the online TRC to bring it up to date and correct minor errors. I also maintain, along with Gary, the VATUSA test banks.
Visible on the network? Not that it matters one bit but yeah, I'd say so. Why do I and others do this, aside from our rabid desire to have so-called fancy titles? Good question ... it's becoming less and less worthwhile.
The turnover of ATMs in the network is relatively frequent. Each time that happens, the ATD may participate in an exit interview, and at least discuss possible replacement recommendations from the outgoing ATM. He will then cause an announcement to be posted, review applications, conduct interviews each of which lasts 30 minutes or more, make a selection, install that individual, and provide support and orientation while the new ATM settles in.
Every ARTCC experiences occasional problem controllers at one time or another; some more often depending upon their size and complexity. These generally require intervention and or support of the ATD; he may mediate disputes, prepare evidence to present to a DCRM, and remain engaged in the resolution of the dispute.
Pilots occasionally make complaints regarding controller actions or ARTCC policy. These are generally settled with explanation or possibly some revision of standard practices. The process involves multiple emails, possible meetings, and if a revision of policy, review and approval.
ATDs review proposed SOP submitted by ARTCCs for alignment with VATUSA, VATNA and VATSIM policy such as the GRP. In some cases this may require consultation with the director and/or meetings.
ATDs review and approve proposed LOAs. In some cases these can require considerable input and revision, as in the case of LOAs with a VSOA. In one recent such matter, at least 60 emails were involved between a VSOA, an ARTCC, the ATD, VATUSA and VATSIM.
ATDs conduct regular checks of the VATUSA member management system to ensure that members do not wait unreasonable time for transfers and other matters.
ATDs conduct background checks and approve ARTCC senior staff selections.
ATDs maintain a presence in both VATUSA and VATSIM forums, and regularly respond to items of importance to their area of responsibility.
New members to the network consistently fail to read instructions or make appropriate selections when signing up initially. ATD's receive frequent email from individuals who signed up with the wrong facility, or don't like waiting for training, or don't think a test was fair, or don't want to wait seven days, or whatever. These emails are commonly received just about every day. Each of them requires a little research to determine the facts, may require checking with other staff, and each of them requires a response.
I've been called upon while an ATD to create a sector file from scratch, SOP, POF file, and other data that goes into establishing an ARTCC/FIR where none existed before.
I do my utmost to provide immediate response to emails from ARTCC staff. Not a day goes by that email of one sort or another is not received. It is my goal to answer them all without delay.
I've been an ATD for several years in two regions, before which I was an ATM. At one point one major ARTCC had internal strife and conflict to the point that its upper staff all left. It fell to me to fill in as interim ATM for almost two months while also fulfilling ATD responsibilities for the other ARTCCs in my region.
Aside from these ATD matters, I am a VATSIM supervisor and generate a number of hours in that endeavor each month. For the year 2010 that was 180 hours. I also have visiting privileges in nine facilities; some because they are in my region and I can help with events etc., others where I have been assigned before or facilities I instruct in; during 2010 I logged 340 hours controlling, mostly at Center level. As mentioned I also continue to instruct students. And I fly online, a regular member of two active vAs.
For more than a year I have been the interim VATUSA training director. As such I review every instructor application and upon approval process the instructor appointment; same for instructor removals, TA applications, appointments and removals. I am slowly revising the online TRC to bring it up to date and correct minor errors. I also maintain, along with Gary, the VATUSA test banks.
Visible on the network? Not that it matters one bit but yeah, I'd say so. Why do I and others do this, aside from our rabid desire to have so-called fancy titles? Good question ... it's becoming less and less worthwhile.
99
General Discussion / Where's Management?
« on: January 11, 2011, 08:20:35 PM »Quote from: Pan Lalas
... they were serving as a retirement beach house with a nice view to a fancy title?
This is just beyond absurd. If VATUSA staff was drawing paychecks or getting ANY OTHER form of compensation, then maybe it would be worth exploring further. But I think it was you yourself who mentioned that so-called fancy titles in this environment cannot go on a CV or resume ... with that in mind, what earthly value is any position here other than to provide administrative services to keep the community functioning? There is positively no benefit to serving as a VATUSA staff member, and in fact it really just means more time committed to the network and less for other things.
The point about less personnel accomplishing the work now simply indicates that fewer are doing the work where others did before. Did we not need a director of training? Did we not need a USA2? I don't have the answers, but I can tell you that their absence simply means more work for others to do, again with zero compensation of any sort. Honestly if you cannot accept David's well thought out post explaining in significant detail why he feels it is appropriate to give back to the community, then you should go forth with your own belief that we're all doing this for some sort of need for prestige, or whatever. It's really gratifying to know that all the effort is appreciated. "I don't know what each of the staff members do." Well then, that must mean they're not doing anything, I guess.
And by the way, VATUSA staff members are not members of any ARTCC. During their quest for fancy titles and opportunities to sit on the porch, they are removed from ARTCCs and are simply HQ Staff.
Please see heavily coveted fancy title below .....
100
General Discussion / Where's Management?
« on: January 11, 2011, 02:51:03 PM »
The entire VATUSA staff consists of a Director, a Comms guy, an Events guy, and three ATDs. Two are missing: USA2 and Training. Others are handling those duties.
How many of us should resign and walk away to satisfy the concept that staff members are merely title seekers? I mean seriously ... how many of us? And when you've answered that, ask Gary how long he will remain with no support staff.
How many of us should resign and walk away to satisfy the concept that staff members are merely title seekers? I mean seriously ... how many of us? And when you've answered that, ask Gary how long he will remain with no support staff.
101
The Classroom (Controller Tips) / Basic exam
« on: January 06, 2011, 07:31:10 AM »
VRC contains its own internal voice client, so you will not have to bother with anything else. Teamspeak is used by numerous facilities to conduct lessons and coordinate ATC activities, sort of like an intercom, but whether you need it is up to the facility you join. Initially, VRC is a stand-alone application.
Hope that answers your questions ... if not, fire away. We're here to help.
Hope that answers your questions ... if not, fire away. We're here to help.
102
The Control Room Floor / Interesting ATC tidbet
« on: January 05, 2011, 06:26:44 PM »
To subscribe the Call Back use this link:
http://ui.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1101073741327&p=oi
Interesting stuff, via a monthly email.
http://ui.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?m=1101073741327&p=oi
Interesting stuff, via a monthly email.
103
General Discussion / Where's Management?
« on: December 31, 2010, 08:58:02 AM »Quote from: Alan DuBois
Tom, not sure what you're deal is, accusing me of anything is/was out of line. I was simply asking a question because even though I don't control (for a reason), I do frequent both this and the VATSIM forums, and try to keep a feel of the network. I just don't see some of the people that move up in the ranks around to "manage" their people, which makes no sense to me. I'll explain. VATSIM as I see it, is a network for people to come online and enjoy the hobby of either flying, or controlling, or both, online in a network where there is interaction with others, so if you are not going to fly, or control, what is the purpose of being here, kind of defeats the purpose.
While that more or less expands the original question, there are some suppositions in it that don't carry much weight. And until you've had a good hard look at the responsibilities that those selected to staff what you term management positions have to deal with, to suggest that they aren't effective because they're not visible to you is a pretty big reach. A large quantity of the daily business that affects the ATM's in my region goes through me ... and in the case of some ARTCC's, it is voluminous. Bearing in mind that all these folks have real world jobs or other responsibilities, and considering the seriousness with which we conduct the selection process, we are truly fortunate to have quality candidates step up to demonstrate their willingness to take these jobs. That they aren't then as visible as you might like is inconsequential to their functions. "ATM burnout" is common in this network, and it stems in large part to the mind-numbing constant workload on those occupying the position. It is evidence of the demand placed upon them, and in and of itself refutes the perception that they must be inactive if they are not "visible".
My "deal" is respect and admiration for those who take on the responsibilities of maintaining this network and all it entails.
104
General Discussion / Where's Management?
« on: December 30, 2010, 07:50:34 AM »
More to the point Mr. DuBois: What is your need? VATSIM and VATUSA have active management staff at all levels. Is there some particular issue you're concerned with, or was your post just to get a rise?
105
General Discussion / Integrity of the Network
« on: November 10, 2010, 06:17:16 AM »
For what it's worth, and I spoke to Brian about this, I think there is a clear distinction on the network between new members who honestly want to learn and who will cooperate with efforts to help them, and those who can't be bothered with even the most rudimentary of rules. It's my impression that the latter group is consistently increasing over time and has been the source of a fair number of complaints in the past. I don't have the solution, but I honestly think that while the VATSIM community does a commendable job with the first, it's truly in their best interest to address the latter.
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EDIT: The painful result of slow typing and thought reconstruction; Dhruv said it better and faster while I was composing the above.
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EDIT: The painful result of slow typing and thought reconstruction; Dhruv said it better and faster while I was composing the above.