Hello VATUSA,
As most of you are aware, there has been a development project in the works for some time aiming to improve the experience for VATUSA controllers and pilots. The new vNAS system, short for Virtual National Airspace System, serves as a multifaceted software suite that will seamlessly connect many different aspects of ATC together and in a more in-depth manner than what we have previously been able to achieve. Building this system was a major investment in improving our virtual infrastructure, and today we are able to celebrate its public release for all VATUSA controllers to enjoy!

Attached below are some helpful resources for you to watch, read, explore, and learn about our new system. CRC, or Consolidated Radar Client, is the primary application of vNAS and serves as the new controlling client for our virtual controllers. No longer will controllers need to have 2 or 3 different controlling clients depending on the position they wish to work, as with CRC everything is in one place. This software is customizable and offers plenty of new features that will improve coordination and communication between controllers in our division. Learn more about it below:

Introduction to CRC Video - Made by the Oakland ARTCC for all to enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KHjynNJJHs
vNAS Official Website: https://www.vnas.vatsim.net/

📕  Documentation 📕
CRC: https://crc.virtualnas.net/docs/
vStrips: https://strips.virtualnas.net/docs/
vTDLS: https://tdls.virtualnas.net/docs/

VATSIM has also approved a secondary connection to be made through a pilot client for the use of tower view: https://forum.vatsim.net/t/announcement-update-to-tower-view-connection/3584

We would like to take a moment and thank the primary developers who are responsible for making this happen. Without the dedication of Ross Carlson, Nathan Rankin, and anyone else who pitched in, this new system would not be possible.

Now is the time to jump on the network, control with the rest of your ARTCC, and get excited about controlling and serving pilots in a way we have never seen before. While other legacy clients are still permitted to connect to the network, this will not be the case for long. We highly encourage our membership to become familiar with the new CRC program and move away from the older clients as they will be officially retired in an undetermined time that's not too far away. The official last day for these legacy clients will be announced with plenty of notice in the future.

If you have questions about the software or run into issues, feel free to ask others in your ARTCC or talk to your ARTCC staff. We are all learning together, and there may be some bumps along the way. Nonetheless, we want to once again thank Ross, Nathan, and the entire vNAS team for their contributions to the network, and we look forward to seeing everyone controlling the friendly skies using CRC and the rest of the vNAS suite.

Well...what are you waiting for?! vNAS is officially released, let's LIGHT UP AMERICA!

Please join me in congratulating Andrew Selder as the next ATM for the Oakland ARTCC! Andrew is excited to continue leading ZOA as he moves up from his current role as the Oakland DATM. His passion for the ZOA community, willingness to lend a hand when needed, and ability to step up and lead by example will surely aid him and his staff as they oversee the Oakland ARTCC moving forward. I am confident that Andrew and his team will be able to uphold the standards of being a ZOA member while fostering a fun, positive, and educational environment for all to enjoy. Congrats Andrew!

Houston ARTCC Air Traffic Manager Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Houston ARTCC (ZHU)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain facility membership
Supervisor: Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services (ATS)
Application Deadline: Closes September 22nd, 2023 23:59z

The Air Traffic Manager (ATM) is the overseer of all ARTCC operations. The ATM's primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the ARTCC, along with drafting and implementing ARTCC policies and LOAs. The ATM is the primary point of contact and representative of the facility for VATUSA management.
 
Main responsibilities:

Manage the ARTCC
Handle Transfer/Visiting requests
Maintain the ARTCC roster
Communicate regularly with VATUSA2
Collaborate closely with ARTCC staff to ensure transparent and effective communication with the membership
Oversee the air traffic control training program, events, social media, and data services/facilities infrastructure
Foster a positive, healthy, and educational environment for members to learn and grow in
Maintain a strong online presence through various platforms to foster community engagement and facilitate information dissemination
Develop/Grow the ARTCC in alignment with division goals
Oversee the Deputy Air Traffic Manager and Training Administrator directly
Develop and implement policies, air traffic control standard operating procedures, and letters of agreement alongside the DATM
Manage an active staff of DATM, TA, EC, FE, and WM

Potential responsibilities (based on ARTCC needs):

VATUSA Workgroups
Assisting the Junior and Senior staff in all aspects
Community moderation/development

Requirements for the role:

Active member of VATSIM in good standing
Ability to maintain ARTCC activity requirement standards
Strong understanding of the WM, EC, FE, TA, and DATM roles
Obtained a rating of C1
Ability to manage a team of at least 5
Positive and professional attitude with the time commitment necessary to lead the ARTCC
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong understanding of US Airspace and the NAS

Preferred qualifications for this role:

Familiarity with the ARTCC
VATUSA Member
Understanding of the VATUSA Structure
Prior staff experience
Prior teaching/education experience

ATM is a Senior Staff role and therefore is not an entry-level position. The ATM could be required to dedicate several hours daily to managing the ARTCC. However, the ATM must also be able to utilize his/her staff to effectively delegate tasks to ensure the continued operation of the ARTCC. Only those who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should consider applying to this position. Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.

If you wish to apply for the ATM position, please email Brandon Wening, Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services ([email protected]) with a detailed VATSIM/relevant real-world résumé and cover letter by September 22nd, 2023 23:59z. The letter of application should summarize the applicant's reasons for wanting to lead the ZHU ARTCC, compelling evidence to show how the position requirements are met, and how the facility will thrive under the applicant's leadership. Your virtual resume should consist of all prior VATSIM experience and any real-world experience you feel is applicable. Please also include your name, active email address, CID, current ARTCC, and current rating.

Oakland ARTCC Air Traffic Manager Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Oakland ARTCC (ZOA)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain facility membership
Supervisor: Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services (ATS)
Application Deadline: Closes September 9th, 2023 23:59z

The Air Traffic Manager (ATM) is the overseer of all ARTCC operations. The ATM's primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the ARTCC, along with drafting and implementing ARTCC policies and LOAs. The ATM is the primary point of contact and representative of the facility for VATUSA management.
 
Main responsibilities:

Manage the ARTCC
Handle Transfer/Visiting requests
Maintain the ARTCC roster
Communicate regularly with VATUSA2
Collaborate closely with ARTCC staff to ensure transparent and effective communication with the membership
Oversee the air traffic control training program, events, social media, and data services/facilities infrastructure
Foster a positive, healthy, and educational environment for members to learn and grow in
Maintain a strong online presence through various platforms to foster community engagement and facilitate information dissemination
Develop/Grow the ARTCC in alignment with division goals
Oversee the Deputy Air Traffic Manager and Training Administrator directly
Develop and implement policies, air traffic control standard operating procedures, and letters of agreement alongside the DATM
Manage an active staff of DATM, TA, EC, FE, and WM

Potential responsibilities (based on ARTCC needs):

VATUSA Workgroups
Assisting the Junior and Senior staff in all aspects
Community moderation/development

Requirements for the role:

Active member of VATSIM in good standing
Ability to maintain ARTCC activity requirement standards
Strong understanding of the WM, EC, FE, TA, and DATM roles
Obtained a rating of C1
Ability to manage a team of at least 5
Positive and professional attitude with the time commitment necessary to lead the ARTCC
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong understanding of US Airspace and the NAS

Preferred qualifications for this role:

Familiarity with the ARTCC
VATUSA Member
Understanding of the VATUSA Structure
Prior staff experience
Prior teaching/education experience

ATM is a Senior Staff role and therefore is not an entry-level position. The ATM will be required to dedicate several hours daily to managing the ARTCC. However, the ATM must also be able to utilize his/her staff to effectively delegate tasks to assure the continued operation of the ARTCC. Only those who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should consider applying to this position. Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.

If you wish to apply for the ATM position, please email Brandon Wening, Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services ([email protected]) with a detailed VATSIM/relevant real-world résumé and cover letter by September 9th, 2023 23:59z. The letter of application should summarize the applicant's reasons for wanting to lead the ZOA ARTCC, compelling evidence to show how the position requirements are met, and how the facility will thrive under the applicant's leadership. Please also include your name, active email address, CID, current ARTCC, current rating, and any prior experience. Your virtual resume should consist of all prior experience related to VATSIM along with any real-world experience you feel is applicable.

Boston ARTCC Air Traffic Manager Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Boston ARTCC (ZBW)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain facility membership
Supervisor: Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services (ATS)
Application Deadline: Closes September 2nd, 2023 23:59z

The Air Traffic Manager (ATM) is the overseer of all ARTCC operations. The ATM's primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the ARTCC, along with drafting and implementing ARTCC policies and LOAs. The ATM is the primary point of contact and representative of the facility for VATUSA management. The expected start date for this position is 1 December 2023.
 
Main responsibilities:

Fulfill the role of ARTCC Administrator, actively participating in bi-monthly meetings
Handle Transfer/Visiting requests
Maintain the ARTCC roster
Communicate regularly with VATUSA2
Collaborate closely with ARTCC staff to ensure transparent and effective communication with the membership
Oversee the ZBW air traffic control training program, events, social media, and data services/facilities infrastructure
Foster a positive, healthy, and educational environment for members to learn and grow in
Maintain a strong online presence through various platforms to foster community engagement and facilitate information dissemination
Develop/Grow the ARTCC in alignment with division goals
Address disciplinary situations with fairness and professionalism, upholding the integrity of the organization
Establish and define the duties of the Deputy Air Traffic Manager and Training Administrator
Develop and implement policies, air traffic control standard operating procedures, and letters of agreement alongside the DATM
Manage an active staff of DATM, TA, EC, FE, and WM

Potential responsibilities (based on ARTCC needs):

VATUSA Workgroups
Assisting the Junior and Senior staff in all aspects
Community moderation/development

Requirements for the role:

Active member of VATSIM in good standing
Ability to maintain ARTCC activity requirement standards
Strong understanding of the WM, EC, FE, TA, and DATM roles
Obtained a rating of C1
Ability to manage a team of at least 5
Positive and professional attitude with the time commitment necessary to lead the ARTCC
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong understanding of US Airspace and the NAS

Preferred qualifications for this role:

Familiarity with the ARTCC
VATUSA Member
Understanding of the VATUSA Structure
Prior staff experience
Prior teaching/education experience

ATM is a Senior Staff role and therefore is not an entry-level position. The ATM will be required to dedicate several hours daily to managing the ARTCC. However, the ATM must also be able to utilize his/her staff to effectively delegate tasks to assure the continued operation of the ARTCC. Only those who understand the requirements and can make the appropriate commitment should consider applying to this position. Candidates can expect an initial evaluation of their application after which they may be contacted for a comprehensive interview.

If you wish to apply for the ATM position, please email Brandon Wening, Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services ([email protected]) with a detailed VATSIM/relevant real-world résumé and cover letter by September 2nd, 2023 23:59z. The letter of application should summarize the applicant's reasons for wanting to lead the ZBW ARTCC, compelling evidence to show how the position requirements are met, and how the facility will thrive under the applicant's leadership. Please also include your name, active email address, CID, current ARTCC, current rating, and any prior experience. Your virtual resume should consist of all prior experience related to VATSIM along with any real-world experience you feel is applicable.

Atlanta ARTCC Air Traffic Manager Vacancy Announcement

Position: Air Traffic Manager
Location: Atlanta ARTCC (ZTL)
Time Commitment: 4 to 8 hours per week+, and required monthly controller hours to maintain facility membership
Supervisor: Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services (ATS)
Application Deadline: Closes August 4th, 2023 23:59z

The Air Traffic Manager (ATM) is the overseer of all ARTCC operations. The ATM's primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the ARTCC, along with drafting and implementing ARTCC policies and LOAs. The ATM is the primary point of contact and representative of the facility for VATUSA management.
 
Main responsibilities:

Manage the ARTCC
Handle Transfer/Visiting requests
Maintain the ARTCC roster
Communicate regularly with VATUSA2
Foster a positive, healthy, and educational environment for members to learn and grow in
Develop/Grow the ARTCC in alignment with division goals
Oversee the TA and DATM directly
Implement and maintain ARTCC policy alongside the DATM
Manage an active staff of DATM, TA, EC, FE, and WM

Potential responsibilities (based on ARTCC needs):

VATUSA Workgroups
Assisting the Junior and Senior staff in all aspects
Community moderation/development

Requirements for the role:

Active member of VATSIM in good standing
Ability to maintain ARTCC activity requirement standards
Strong understanding of the WM, EC, FE, TA, and DATM roles
Obtained a rating of C1
Ability to manage a team of at least 5
Positive and professional attitude with the time commitment necessary to lead the ARTCC
Excellent written and oral communication skills

Preferred qualifications for this role:

Familiarity with the ARTCC
VATUSA Member
Strong understanding of US Airspace and the NAS
Understanding of the VATUSA Structure

ATM is a Senior Staff role and therefore is not an entry-level position. The ATM will be required to dedicate several hours daily to managing the ARTCC. However, the ATM must also be able to utilize his/her staff to effectively delegate tasks to assure the continued operation of the ARTCC.

If you wish to apply for the ATM position, please email Brandon Wening, Deputy Division Director - Air Traffic Services ([email protected]) with a detailed VATSIM/relevant real-world résumé and cover letter by August 4th, 2023 23:59z.

Please join me in congratulating Hayden Young as the new Indianapolis ARTCC Air Traffic Manager! Hayden has previously served in many different staff roles in VATUSA, most recently in the ZID TA position. The ZID community means a lot to Hayden, and he looks forward to continue improving the overall member experience when flying and controlling inside the Indy ARTCC. I am confident that Hayden's staff and real-world aviation experience have prepared him well for his new role, and I'm excited to watch Hayden's vision for ZID come to life! Congrats Hayden!!