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Messages - Wesley Miles

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1
NOTAMs / FNO Policy Change: 2021
« on: February 21, 2021, 11:22:02 AM »
VATUSA's premier event, Friday Night Operations, has continued to rise in popularity due to factors including the COVID-19 pandemic and the release of MSFS.  This spike in traffic has continued to result in airspace and airports saturated well beyond real-world capacity.  While this level of traffic can certainly be exciting for both pilots and controllers, experiencing this each and every week has been taking a toll on our members, staff, and even pilots (who often experience ground delays in excess of 60 minutes).

What the community sees on the "front" are lots of planes, ground delays, departure queues 15-30 planes long, delay/spacing vectors and speed restrictions, reroutes, and maybe some missed transmissions.  But, what they don't see behind the scenes is the countless hours spent planning and coordinating each event, the heavy staffing requirements needed from the host facility, neighboring facilities, and Command Center (an all-volunteer membership), and the amount of effort and skill involved in squeezing more planes into an area than the real-world National Airspace System can handle... each week.

This is only sustainable for so long, and as a division, we believe we've reached that limit.  For these reasons, Friday Night Ops will be changing in format and policy starting March 19, 2021, with a transition period that ends March 12.  Some big changes include the switch to a biweekly rotating schedule.  FNO will continue each week, but "hosted" FNOs (weeks that are bid by facilities) will occur every other week.  In between "hosted" weeks, VATUSA will have Light Up America, Open Mic Night, or other theme/area events to be determined.  Additionally, "hosted" weeks will require three or more ARTCCs to be featured, each with one or more airports.

One of the unfortunate results of this change is the requirement to rebid for FNO slots on this new rotating schedule.  We're under the clock for this bidding process, and it's going to happen quick.  Pre-bidding opens tomorrow February 22 to reserve dates for large/recurring events, and ends Friday February 26.  Events to pre-bid include the traditional/recurring FNO events hosted each year, live events, or those centered around real-world events such as FSExpo.  To submit reservations during pre-bid, send the event details, preferred date, and a quick reason/explanation for the reservation to your Region Manager.

Once we have all reserved dates from pre-bid, ARTCC staff will be notified of the available "hosted" weeks and bidding will start, administered by the ATMs/DATMs.  We do encourage facilities to coordinate and seek out 2 or more ARTCCs prior to bidding.

Friday Night Ops isn't going anywhere, it's just going to look a little different to better serve the pilot and controller communities.  Please see the attached notice for more information and the full policy.  Feel free to reach out to your managers or myself with questions.

2
News / Re: Fort Worth’s New Events Coordinator
« on: October 06, 2020, 05:33:09 PM »
Great to hear, nice work Martyn!!

3
News / Fort Worth's New Air Traffic Manager
« on: September 12, 2020, 10:11:29 PM »
Please join me in welcoming Tyler Beals as the new Forth Worth Air Traffic Manager. Tyler previously served as DATM and ATM at Denver, and is no stranger to the operation at ZFW. He brings real-world ATC experience and leadership to the table, and I'm excited to see where he takes ZFW.

Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't thank Jonathan Franklin for his time, effort, and dedication to ZFW.  Jonathan swapped offices from DATM to ATM a year ago and has a history of service to the membership and Division.  JF, you'll truly be missed but I wish you well in your retirement!

4
News / Re: Deputy Division Director Appointment
« on: September 10, 2020, 08:39:29 AM »
Thank you everyone!  I'm humbled and honored to serve our staff and membership in this new role.  Kinda sad to leave my southern home of 11 years, but very excited for what lies ahead.

5
News / Re: New ATM at ZLC
« on: September 07, 2020, 10:51:04 AM »
Congrats Paul!  Always excited to see "retirees" come back!

6
News / Position Posting: Fort Worth Air Traffic Manager
« on: August 08, 2020, 06:19:04 PM »
VATUSA Position Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Fort Worth ARTCC (ZFW)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain ARTCC membership
Supervisor: Southern Region Air Traffic Director (ATD)
Application Deadline: Closes August 22, 2020 at 23:59z

VATUSA is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of Air Traffic Manager at the Fort Worth ARTCC.  This position is not an entry-level position and will require significant time commitments to effectively perform the duties of Air Traffic Manager.


Duties of the ATM:

- Reports to the Southern Region Air Traffic Director and directs the operations and management of the assigned facility
- Must maintain an online presence on the VATSIM network
- Maintains facility website and teamspeak
- Drafts ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents; seeks ATD approval for the same
- Ensures ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents are readily available for viewing/download
- Functions as VATUSA staff member and attends meetings as necessary to discuss and stay current with region and division issues, policies, and initiatives
- Manages and defines the duties of ARTCC staff; submits selection of Deputy ATM and Webmaster to the ATD for division confirmation; submits selection of Training Administrator to the Training Director for division confirmation
- Provides guidance and help to assigned controllers; may establish a staff of "Mentors" to assist with training
- Works with or delegates a liaison to work with region/division-level Events Coordinators on events as necessary
- Addresses disciplinary situations with the Southern Region ATD when appropriate


Minimum Requirements:

- Possess a high degree of energy and commitment appropriate to the requirements of the position
- Must have at least a Controller (C1) rating
- Must be an active member of the network in good standing
- Must be able to work in a team environment and function as a team member
- Must conduct themselves in a professional manner in all interaction within their role
- Have no significant disciplinary record, no history of unprofessional behavior

Highly Desired Skills:

- Demonstrates qualities of understanding, patience, and maturity.
- Understands the role of the ARTCC and ARTCC staff within the Southern Region, VATUSA, and VATNA
- Understands the position requires CONSIDERABLE commitment of time
- Prior ARTCC staff experience
- Prior or current Instructor or Mentor experience
- Experience effectively managing others through good leadership practices
- Real world management experience

Only those candidates who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should apply.  Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.  All qualified candidates will be reviewed and considered.  Qualified candidates currently assigned to the ARTCC will be given special consideration.

Applications should include:

- Name, active email address, and CID
- Resume (including any applicable real-world management experience).
- Letter of Intent / Cover-letter.

To Apply:
Submit the required information above to vatusa8@vatusa.net no later than August 22, 2020 23:59Z.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

7
News / Re: Albuquerque's newest DATM
« on: July 11, 2020, 10:11:32 AM »
Congrats Jeremy!  Scott, thanks for your time and dedication to the members of ZAB, and to VATUSA.

8
News / Houston's New Air Traffic Manager
« on: April 09, 2020, 04:36:20 PM »
Please join me in congratulating Marcus Miller as he ventures off in his new(-ish) role as Air Traffic Manager of the Houston ARTCC.

Previously the ATM at Denver, Marcus most recently served as the Deputy ATM at Houston before becoming the acting manager after Bryan's retirement.  So really... he's just moving his stuff into the office he's been using already.  But we wish him the best anyhow, and we're excited for him and ZHU as they start a new chapter!

9
News / Kansas City's New Air Traffic Manager
« on: February 27, 2020, 09:09:27 PM »
Please join me in congratulating Kyle Kaestner as the new Air Traffic Manager of Kansas City.  Kyle joined the ARTCC in 2015 as an OBS and has since developed his career, serving on staff for the last 4 years, reaching the pinnacle today with his selection to ATM.  Kyle brings years of experience and leadership to the table, and I'm excited to see the work he'll do in his new role.

Kyle takes the reigns from Rey Lopez, who last month announced his retirement.  Besides being a good friend of mine, Rey was an invaluable asset to the team and his leadership will be missed.  Congrats Rey!  Thanks for your dedication to Kansas City ARTCC and the United States Division.

10
News / Position Posting: Kansas City ARTCC Air Traffic Manager
« on: February 04, 2020, 03:13:28 PM »
VATUSA Position Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Kansas City ARTCC (ZKC)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain ARTCC membership
Supervisor: Southern Region Air Traffic Director (ATD)
Application Deadline: Closes February 11, 2020 at 23:59z

VATUSA is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of Air Traffic Manager at the Kansas City ARTCC.  This position is not an entry-level position and will require significant time commitments to effectively perform the duties of Air Traffic Manager.

Duties of the ATM:

- Reports to the Southern Region Air Traffic Director and directs the operations and management of the assigned facility
- Must maintain an online presence on the VATSIM network
- Maintains facility website and teamspeak
- Drafts ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents; seeks ATD approval for the same
- Ensures ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents are readily available for viewing/download
- Functions as VATUSA staff member and attends meetings as necessary to discuss and stay current with region and division issues, policies, and initiatives
- Manages and defines the duties of ARTCC staff; submits selection of Deputy ATM and Webmaster to the ATD for division confirmation; submits selection of Training Administrator to the Training Director for division confirmation
- Provides guidance and help to assigned controllers; may establish a staff of "Mentors" to assist with training
- Works with or delegates a liaison to work with region/division-level Events Coordinators on events as necessary
- Addresses disciplinary situations with the Southern Region ATD when appropriate

Minimum Requirements:

- Possess a high degree of energy and commitment appropriate to the requirements of the position
- Must have at least a Controller (C1) rating
- Must be an active member of the network in good standing
- Must be able to work in a team environment and function as a team member
- Have no significant disciplinary record, no history of unprofessional behavior

Highly Desired Skills:

- Demonstrates qualities of understanding, patience, and maturity.
- Understands the role of the ARTCC and ARTCC staff within the Southern Region, VATUSA, and VATNA
- Understands the position requires CONSIDERABLE commitment of time
- Prior ARTCC staff experience
- Prior or current Instructor or Mentor experience
- Experience effectively managing others through good leadership practices
- Real world management experience

Only those candidates who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should apply.  Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.  All qualified candidates will be reviewed and considered.  Qualified candidates currently assigned to the ARTCC will be given special consideration.

Applications should include:

- Name, active email address, and CID
- Resume (including any applicable real-world management experience).
- Letter of Intent / Cover-letter.

To Apply:
Submit the required information above to vatusa8@vatusa.net no later than February 11, 2020 23:59Z.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

11
News / Re: Houston Hires Unpaid Intern for DATM Position
« on: October 27, 2019, 07:38:24 PM »
Congrats Marcus!  Thanks for stepping up again!

12
News / Houston Has a New Air Traffic Manager
« on: September 16, 2019, 06:06:24 AM »
Bryan Oates has been selected as the next Air Traffic Manager of Houston ARTCC.  Bryan has been serving on ZHU staff since February, and will assume his new role effective this evening.  Congrats Bryan, I look forward to working with you!

Bryan's got big shoes to fill as Matthew Kosmoski retires from his 2-year post this evening.  Kosmo, thanks for your dedication and service to Houston, VATUSA, and this hobby.  The portrait-hanging ceremony will be tomorrow evening, followed by drinks in the lobby.

13
News / Fort Worth's New Air Traffic Manager
« on: September 06, 2019, 06:01:07 PM »
Please join me in welcoming Jonathan Franklin into his new role as the Air Traffic Manager at Fort Worth ARTCC.  Jonathan has served as the Deputy Air Traffic Manager since March and has played a key role in the leadership of ZFW, serving under Mark Jeffreys and most recently as acting ATM while we went through the hiring process. Jonathan is no stranger to the ARTCC, and his vision is sure to keep Fort Worth in forward momentum.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Jeffreys for his time, effort, and service to ZFW and VATUSA.  Mark has decided to retire after serving as a ZFW staff member for over 2 and a half years, more than a year of which as manager.  Good luck in your future endeavors!

14
News / Position Posting: Fort Worth ARTCC Air Traffic Manager
« on: August 19, 2019, 04:48:37 PM »
VATUSA Position Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Fort Worth ARTCC (ZFW)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain ARTCC membership
Supervisor: Southern Region Air Traffic Director (ATD)
Application Deadline: Closes September 2, 2019 at 23:59z

VATUSA is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of Air Traffic Manager at the Fort Worth ARTCC.  This position is not an entry-level position and will require significant time commitments to effectively perform the duties of Air Traffic Manager.

Duties of the ATM:

- Reports to the Southern Region Air Traffic Director and directs the operations and management of the assigned facility
- Must maintain an online presence on the VATSIM network
- Maintains facility website and teamspeak
- Drafts ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents; seeks ATD approval for the same
- Ensures ARTCC SOPs, LOAs and other appropriate documents are readily available for viewing/download
- Functions as VATUSA staff member and attends meetings as necessary to discuss and stay current with region and division issues, policies, and initiatives
- Manages and defines the duties of ARTCC staff; submits selection of Deputy ATM and Webmaster to the ATD for division confirmation; submits selection of Training Administrator to the Training Director for division confirmation
- Provides guidance and help to assigned controllers; may establish a staff of "Mentors" to assist with training
- Works with or delegates a liaison to work with region/division-level Events Coordinators on events as necessary
- Addresses disciplinary situations with the Southern Region ATD when appropriate

Minimum Requirements:

- Possess a high degree of energy and commitment appropriate to the requirements of the position
- Must have at least a Controller (C1) rating
- Must be an active member of the network in good standing
- Must be able to work in a team environment and function as a team member
- Have no significant disciplinary record, no history of unprofessional behavior

Highly Desired Skills:

- Demonstrates qualities of understanding, patience, and maturity.
- Understands the role of the ARTCC and ARTCC staff within the Southern Region, VATUSA, and VATNA
- Understands the position requires CONSIDERABLE commitment of time
- Prior ARTCC staff experience
- Prior or current Instructor or Mentor experience
- Experience effectively managing others through good leadership practices
- Real world management experience

Only those candidates who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should apply.  Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.  All qualified candidates will be reviewed and considered.  Qualified candidates currently assigned to the ARTCC will be given special consideration.

Applications should include:

- Name, active email address, and CID
- Resume (including any applicable real-world management experience).
- Letter of Intent / Cover-letter.

To Apply:
Submit the required information above to vatusa8@vatusa.net no later than September 2, 2019 23:59Z.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

15
News / Re: Enrico Noia is ZLA's Newest EC
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:07:27 PM »
Congrats Enrico!  Thank you!

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