winter 2014-15vol. 9 no. 1

women air traff ic controllers hotsheet

A Publication of the Professional Women

Controllers, Inc.

03 Navigating Challenging Times 10 Is Your Image Working for You?14 PWC Sponsors “Chat and Chew”

at FAA Headquarters

NAVIGATING the CROSSROADS2015 PWC National Training Conference PreviewINTERCONTINENTAL KANSAS CITY AT THE PLAZA KANSAS CITY, MO | APRIL 26-29, 2015

women air traffic controllers hot-sheet: a publication of the professional women controllers, inc.winter 2014-15 vol. 9 no. 1

Professional Women Controllers, Inc. P.O. Box 950085 Oklahoma City, OK 73195-0085info@pwcinc.org | www.pwcinc.org

VISIONProfessional Women Controllers aim to achieve a balanced workforce that reflects the demographics of society and creates a safe environment where all air traffic professionals have passion for their career, can excel and feel a sense of community at work.

MISSIONProfessional Women Controllers is a resource that provides support, training, encouragement and camaraderie for all air traffic professionals. PWC advocates balancing work and family life, recruiting and retaining excellent employees, developing people, enjoying work and maintain-ing a positive sense of community.

OFFICERSPresident, Diana EldridgeVice President, Christine JohnsonSecretary, Aimee WrightDirector of Resources (Treasurer), Tina SantiagoMembership Director, Marcy Soto

REGIONAL DIRECTORSAlaska Director, Janet MulderCentral Director, Michelle Bales-WoodsEastern Director, Norma ElyGreat Lakes Director, Connie AtlagovichNew England Director, VacantNorthwest Mountain Director, Pam SheelerSouthern Director, Lindsey KnoxSouthwest Director, Jennifer LemmonWestern-Pacific Director, Christina Munro

APPOINTED OFFICERS, PROGRAM MANAGERSWeb Page Administrator, Meagan GarmonWATCH Editor, Patty SwenorPublic Affairs Officer, VacantHistorian, Sue TownsendParliamentarian, Constitution & By-laws,

Maria HofbauerNational Conference Chair, Kurt ProctorEducation & Career Development

Program Manager, Sandy HolcombElections Committee, Judy NobleMembership & Recruitment Program Manager,

Marcy SotoSales Coordinator, Pat TinerCorporate Recruitment Program

Manager, Marcy Soto2015 Conference Chair, Christina Calvert 2015 Conference Co-Chair, Kurt Proctor2016 Conference Chair, Nancy ThompsonLogistics Coordinator, PattiAnn Pickhard

PUBLISHERKathleen Cummins Mifsud

MANAGING EDITORPatty Swenor

CONTRIBUTORS Diana Eldridge, Christine Johnson, Christina Munro, Michelle Bales-Woods, Lindsey Knox, Robinn Scholfield, Christina Calvert, Eunice Fatokun, Sue Townsend, Karen Pontius, Jennifer Lemmon, Connie Atlagovich, and Kathleen Mifsud

PHOTOSPhoto page 5 supplied by FAA; photo page 8 supplied by Christine Johnson; photos pages 14-17 supplied by FAA, and photo page 18 supplied by Sue Townsend

DESIGNSagetopia, 703.726.6400, www.sagetopia.com

PRODUCTIONGood Printers, 213 Dry River Road, Bridgewater VA 22812; 540.828.4663

COVER Courtesy of Kansas City Convention & Visitors Bureau

The WATCH, a benefit of membership in the Professional Women Controllers, Inc., is pub-lished quarterly. To become a member, go to www.pwcinc.org.

The views expressed herein are solely those of the authors and should not be construed to be the opinion of the Professional Women Controllers (PWC). Suggestions and opinions expressed in The Watch are not necessarily endorsed by PWC. Nothing in these pages is intended to supercede operator’s or manufacturer’s policies, practices or requirements, or to supersede government regulations.

© 2014 Professional Women Controllers, Inc. All rights reserved.

03 VIEW FROM THE TOWER

Navigating Challenging Times2014 PWC New Member Corner

– May to OctoberUpcoming Vote: PWC’s Future

05 PWC in D.C.: Getting to Know TrishA Visit to FAA Headquarters Help Me!

06 2015 PWC Awards and Nomination FormOpportunities to Learn and Grow

07 2015 PWC Awards and Nomination Form

08 INSIGHT

Observations by a PWC Leader: Christine Johnson

10 PWC 2015 Training Conference Preview Is Your Image Working for You?

11 Letter of Appreciation from Nigeria

12 Navigating The Crossroads: Kansas City, Here We Come!

13 Navigating The Crossroads: Registration Form

14 PWC Sponsors “Chat and Chew” at FAA Headquarters

17 How to Network at a PWC Conference

18 Retirement and Fulfilling Your Bucket List

19 Best Approach Chart Ever!

20 2015 Scholarship Program, Instructions & Application

22 REGIONAL NEWS

Southwest, Central, Southern and Great Lakes

23 FAA Benefits Operations Center (BOC) Announces New Toll-Free NumberDOT Secretary’s 47th Annual AwardsPWC Corporate Members and Sponsors

24 Navigating the Crossroads!2015 PWC National Training Conference

women air traffic controllers hot-sheet: a publication of the professional women controllers, inc.winter 2014-15 vol. 9 no. 1

the WATCH winter 2014-15 3

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

G reetings and salutations, PWC members! I absolutely love being a part of PWC. A member for

14 years, I participated actively on the Board of Directors for seven years and have had so many opportunities to learn and grow every week.

At the June 2014 Board of Directors meeting in Washington D.C., we con-centrated on planning for the upcoming year. As you know – and as you will read more about later in this issue – 2015 PWC elections will include voting on a new dues structure.

NEW DUES STRUCTURE NECESSARY FOR PWCEvery PWC member has an opportunity to participate in the process and as well as in the success of our organization by exercising your right to vote. PWC is not the only organization facing the need to increase dues.

The choices being presented are fair, I believe, and should not only allow your continued financial support of the association, but also enable PWC to prosper in a financially stable manner.

As I ask the controllers on my crew prior to splitting or combining a sector – as the situation requires: “Are you stable and secure to split or combine or to go to one?” Some situations simply can’t be handled quickly or easily.

PWC is here to encourage young women to join a great career field, as well as to support and encourage PWC

members currently in the air traffic field. Support and encouragement are fulfilling as well as challenging.

WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE – THE QUEST CONTINUESWe have women who are still being targeted because of the high standards they bring to air traffic control – our chosen career field. We have women who are being intimidated in varying ways. What ways, you may ask?

Some situations are as simple as a developmental being told, “This job is more difficult for women, so you need to make sure men don’t distract you in training,” as well as bathroom intimidation. What do I mean by bathroom intimidation? I mean women and men sharing the same bathroom, and as you know, women prefer to sit – yet the seat is soiled. Why the seat is soiled is the BIG question, and why is it so difficult to turn around this behavior?

I don’t mention these two very small items lightly. I mention them to bring to light the fact seemingly small issues can be or can become big issues. As controllers or managers – and as women – we have a responsibility to be proactive. I ask you to please report to your managers the issues you observe or are subjected to.

If no action is taken, please contact the Accountability Board or the Equal Employment Opportunities office.

Thanks to the women who came before us, we enjoy significantly better working conditions than they did. We owe it to future women air traffic controllers to leave an even better work environment for them.

The challenges I have encountered, since June, are small compared to what some of our members have been forced to endure – and more specifically – have had to confront personally. We have PWC members meeting these challenges directly.

I commend them and respect the strength they choose to present against oppression. Thank you, Ladies! Please continue to let us know how you are doing and what support PWC can supply.

PWC IN WASHINGTON D.C. AT NATIONAL EMPLOYEE FORUMDuring the National Employee Forum (NEF) meetings in Washington, D.C., based upon the specific situations that had been revealed to me, I shared the tribulations women are still experienc-ing in the work force. I truly believe the executive branch of the FAA has the goal of a Model Work Environment.

However, I see a disconnect between what the executive branch wants to accomplish versus what the workforce actually receives. I shared my concerns and thoughts with Deputy Administrator Michael Whitaker and described the NEF recommendations on ways to combat this problem.

Navigating Challenging TimesDiana Eldridge, President, Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

During our elections next year, we will vote in our new dues increase. We will send out voting information in January 2015 to your email on file. Please visit www.pwcinc.org, to

ensure we have your correct email information. We will use Survey Monkey to conduct both our elections

and the vote on the dues increase. This is an exciting time as we bring our organization into the 21st century.

PWC’s Board of Directors has spent the past five years cutting the budget and limiting travel. The biggest blow to the financial stability of the organization came during sequestration when the agency could no longer support our officers traveling to the national training conference. PWC and the other employee associations enjoyed this benefit

for years, and with the troubling financial times of our government, this benefit is no longer guaranteed.

As you all have experienced in your own homes, groceries, gasoline, airline tickets and hotel rates have only gone up. This leaves us with only one choice – increasing PWC dues. The higher the increase, the longer it will take to be back at this point. Should the lowest increase be voted in, we will return to a dues increase sooner rather than later. I can’t forecast how far our dues increase will take us, because there are just too many variables.

Thank you in advance for your vote, and thank you, as always, for your support. Below are the choices you will vote on next year: ✈

4 the WATCH winter 2014-15

INSIGHT

Upcoming Vote: PWC’s FutureDiana Eldridge, President, Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

2015 Membership Vote

OPTION 1 OPTION 2 OPTION 3

Active $12/pp $312/yr Active $14/pp $364/yr Active $16/pp $416/yr

Assc. $6/pp $156/yr Assc. $7/pp $182/yr Assc. $8/pp $208/yr

Alum – $75/yr Alum – $75/yr Alum – $75/yr

Student – $30/yr Student – $30/yr Student – $30/yr

Corporate – $400/yr Corporate – $400/yr Corporate – $400/yr

Also, I thank PWC for giving me the opportunity to speak on behalf of our members who are still being discrimi-nated against for being women or simply because they hold up the standards of the Model Work Environment.

Women have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. PWC members, you are invited to participate actively: put one or more of your areas of expertise to work, volunteering for sub groups, contributing financially, or even becoming an elected officer of

PWC. YOU are needed! YOUR efforts will be greatly appreciated!

2014 PWC NEW MEMBER CORNER: MAY-OCTOBER 2014Marcy Soto, PWC Membership Director, sends the following message on behalf of PWC: “Welcome to our newest members! We are excited to have each and every one of you join our great group of hard-working air traffic controllers. We look forward to getting to know all of you better.”

New PWC members include: Therese Ruth Aspillaga, Jessica Begnal, Jennifer Britton, Lori Collins, Alyce Hood-Fleming, Kelly Franklin, Barbara Lindsay and Danielle Perry.

Congratulations to recent FAA retirees: Darla Gerlach.

Just a reminder to all members, as we move forward with our first year of online voting, please be sure your email address is up to date. Send an email to pwcmembershipdirector@gmail.com with any contact information updates. ✈

the WATCH winter 2014-15 5

HELP ME!

Lindsey Knox, Southern Regional Director, PWC

How has PWC helped me? As you may know, PWC’s mission is to be a resource that provides support, train-

ing, encouragement and camaraderie for all air traffic professionals. Although I have been a member since 2010, I had never taken advantage of what the organization could provide for me, until early last year. I had been training for most of my career with the FAA and did not think I had time for such an organization. I attended the Orlando conference in March 2014 and was blown away at the overwhelming support the members gave to one another.

At a moment’s notice, the Board of Directors received word they had a last minute cancelation in a training event. This resulted in not having a speaker for a lecture that was to begin in less than an hour. I was astonished the ladies of PWC were able to provide step-by-step instructions for career building on the FAA website that covered the entire lecture time slot.

To understand and gain the vision of this membership, I took an active roll and began volunteering, as I was appointed the Southern Regional Director. Since such induction, I have attended two board meetings; the first was a virtual meeting and the second held in Washington D.C. In Washington, PWC was invited to participate in conversations with many Deputies, Directors, and Vice Presidents of the Air Traffic Organizations as well as Trish Gilbert, Executive Vice President of NATCA.

At such point, it was obvious what a powerful and important organization PWC is to air traffic professionals. Not only had I met some of the strongest and most intelligent women in my profession, but I also was able to gain a better understanding of where this career was in 1942, where it is now, and where it will go in the future. Meeting the members of PWC has increased my drive and determination of my future goals in this wonderful and fulfilling career. ✈

I n September, I had the unique opportunity to tour numerous departments of FAA Headquarters in

Washington D.C. As I am approach-ing retirement (I was eligible two years ago), I wonder where I would be if I had had this chance early in my career. It was exciting to meet the people who make the policies, sign the orders, and are the foundation of our agency.

It was such a learning experience. I am the type of person who is always striving for something new and wanting to continue to advance my career and challenge who I am. The people I met were awesome. I was introduced to people from safety and technical training, air traffic oversite, procedures, Washington D.C., district manager and the Air Traffic Manager of Reagan National, to name

few. I met women who were so impressive. How do they do it? I struggle daily

balancing family and career. I have a husband who has been very supportive and sacrificed a lot in order for me to grow as an FAA employee.

PWC has been such a great support and has introduced me to new people and ideas. It has been great to have a support group of women who are experiencing some of the same issues I have, both at work and with family.

One thing I learned, while touring headquarters, is to always learn. We all may not have the ambition to work in Washington D.C., but we should learn all we can in order to do the best we can. No matter what level of the agency we have chosen to support, mentor and teach and always continue to learn. ✈

T his September at our PWC Board of Directors meeting in Washing-ton D.C., we had the pleasure of

getting to know Trish Gilbert and dis-cussing many issues pertinent to both of our organizations. Trish Gilbert is the Vice President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) and is based out of the Unions' D.C., Headquarters.

She has been a member of PWC since 2010 and is very interested in increasing the number of women in leadership positions. Trish tends to be the only female in most of the

upper level meetings she attends and is actively recruiting women to come shadow her and get interested in a future in NATCA leadership.

We discussed the possibility of a joint effort between PWC and NATCA to formally promote and encourage women to take on these roles. PWC looks forward to growing our relationship with Trish and NATCA into the future, and we thank her for her time and commitment to the interests of women in the FAA. ✈

PWC IN D.C.: GETTING TO KNOW TRISH

Christina Munro, Western-Pacific Regional Director, PWC

A VISIT TO FAA HEADQUARTERSMichelle Bales-Woods, Central Regional Director, PWC

A VISIT TO FAA HEADQUARTERSMichelle Bales-Woods, Central Regional Director, PWC

TOP PHOTO: Christina Munro and Trish Gilbert.

6 the WATCH spring 20136 the WATCH winter 2014-15

You may have read I have been given numerous opportunities to grow as a person, a leader, a mom and as a PWC representative. My time on the Board has been extraordinary. I have learned new skills, tried new delicacies and truly have enjoyed the multitude of conversations shared with the other Board members and conference attendees. Plus, since I began participating in PWC, I haven’t felt

as if I’m alone in the world of air traffic control. For all PWC members, opportunities for more 2015 participation are just around the corner. PWC officer elections are coming up with the positions of President, Secretary and Membership Director, along with Regional Directors in Alaskan, Central, Eastern and Great Lakes regions.

To make your nomination(s) as easy as possible, simply fill in the blanks, scan the result and send your completed nomination package to our Elections Officer, Judy Noble, at jgnoble47@gmail.com. All nominations and completed packages must be received no later than FEBRUARY 15, 2015.

Each officer must have the following qualifications prior to the beginning of their term of office:

President and Vice President: Three consecutive years of active membership in the organization plus experience with the organization’s Board of Directors as either an elected or appointed officer or as a national committee chair.

Secretary, Director of Resources and Membership Director: One year of active membership in the organization.

Regional Director: One year of active membership in the organization.

2015 PWC OFFICER NOMINATION FORM PLEASE PRINT

I, ______________________________________________ , wish to nominate ____________________________________________________

for the office of ________________________________________________________________________________________________________(Specify Vice President, Resource Director, or Regional Director, including the region)

NOMINEE’S NAME: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOMINEE’S ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOMINEE’S PHONE: Home _________________________________________ Work ________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF NOMINEE: ______________________________________________________________________________________________(Nominee must sign to validate/accept nomination)

INSTRUCTIONS FOR BIO PACKAGE On a separate sheet of paper, respond to the items below. The information you provide will be used as part of the ballot package. Please type your response in a Times New Roman 12pt font. Word documents are preferred. Be concise, and spell out any unusual contractions. Questions 1 through 3 should be in narrative form in the third person. Questions 4 and 5 will be printed as quotes.

1. Nominee’s FAA/Air Traffic background.

2. Nominee’s organizational (both PWC and others) background.

3. Other information nominee considers important. (training, skills, experiences, etc.)

4. “I am interested in becoming/continuing as/returning as a member of the PWC Board of Directors because…”

5. “As a PWC Board of Directors member, I would like to …”

This will be the first year we accomplish our elections via twenty-first century technology--the Internet! Please watch for the ballot packages in your email inbox as well as for directions on how to vote. Election results will be announced during the general business meeting at PWC’s 37th National Training Conference in Kansas City, Missouri.

Come join the fun! Become an active member of the PWC Board of Directors!

Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

2015 PWC OFFICER NOMINATION FORM

OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND GROWBy Diana J. Eldridge, President, PWC

the WATCH spring 2013 7the WATCH winter 2014-15 7

The Awards Program is an effort to highlight the unique contributions our members make to the Agency and our Organization, both nationally and regionally. Nominations will

be accepted from any PWC member. Nominations shall be in writ-ing and contain appropriate supporting documentation including background, work history and PWC mission correlation. Awards will be presented only when qualified candidates are found and may not necessarily be awarded each year. Award nominations shall be submitted to the Vice President, post-marked/emailed no later than JANUARY 31, 2015. All awards will be presented at the PWC National Training Conference. (Note: Only the President may nominate an Honorary Member. The PWC Board of Directors will determine the selection of the nominee.)

AWARDS & CRITERIAPWC HONORARY MEMBERSHIP AWARDHonorary Membership may be granted to any person who has been known to have a personal philosophy that exemplifies PWC’s mission and whose actions have demonstrated a commitment to furthering PWC goals. One Honorary membership may be awarded each calendar year.

PWC PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDThis award is PWC’s top award category. The individual shall have been a member of PWC for at least three years. The individual shall have demonstrated by words and actions, exceptional incentive, great motivation, and superior accomplishments in achieving PWC goals and ideals. Nominations shall include specific documenta-tion to support such actions and deeds. Recipient shall not have received this award within the past five years.

PWC PRESIDENT’S AWARDIndividuals shall be outstanding PWC members who have dem-onstrated support for the President above and beyond the norm. The specific criteria for this decision are solely at the discretion of the President. Up to two people per year may receive this award. Recipients may receive this award in consecutive years.

PWC NATIONAL COMMENDATION AWARDThe National Commendation Award may be given to an individual or a group. This award may be presented each year for achievement in any of the following areas:

1. PWC Recruitment

2. Supporting EEO/Diversity programs

3. Education/Outreach

4. Superior service and support for PWC

5. Volunteerism in aviation related activities

A maximum of three National Commendation Awards may be given annually.

PWC REGIONAL DIRECTOR’S AWARDIndividuals shall be outstanding PWC members who have demonstrated support for their Regional Director above and beyond the norm. The specific criteria for this decision are solely at the discretion of each Regional Director. Each Regional Director may present one award per year.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN CONTROLLERS, INC.

AWARD NOMINATION FORMNAME OF NOMINEE: ________________________________________ AWARD CATEGORY: _________________________________________

FACILITY/REGION: __________________________________________ NOMINATED BY:____________________________________________

JUSTIFICATION (Be Specific): ____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Use additional pages if necessary.

FORWARD NOMINATIONS TO: vicepresident@pwcinc.org or Christine Johnson, Vice President, PWC 406 Coloma St., Folsom, CA 95630

DEADLINE: Nominations must be postmarked/emailed not later than JANUARY 31, 2015.

Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

2015 AWARDS PROGRAM & FORM

INSIGHT

Observations by a PWC Leader:

Christine Johnson I’m Christine Johnson, Vice President of PWC and an air traffic control specialist (CPC) at Northern California Terminal Radar Approach Control Facility (TRACON).

How did this come to be, you ask? I grew up in Syracuse, New York, (go Orange!), and then went to Indiana

State University for flying, making my way back home as a flight instructor. I know all about that crazy NE cor-ridor from the other side of the mike. It astounded me as a pilot – more so now as I know what really goes on! After being a starving flight instructor and charter pilot for a few years, I went back to school for air traffic.

From the first class of the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program at Community College of Beaver County – I knew I could do this for the next 25-50 years (not that they will let me). When the FAA hired me, they sent me to Roswell, New Mexico by way of Oklahoma City. I have the distinction of being a member of the very last tower class sent directly to a Radar Training Facility (RTF), great for me as I was headed to an “up down” – not so great for those waiting months for a class.

After three years of dodging UFOs (um working airplanes) – I moved to Indianapolis, Indiana Tower TRACON. While in Indy, I got talked into (I mean “invited”) to join the PWC Board of Directors as the Great Lakes (AGL) Regional Director. I spent almost six years on the board for AGL and loved every minute of it (paid endorsement by… just kidding).

Also, I served on several PWC conference committees helping put my creative side to practical use. That tiny bit of background brings us to the present and to the best move I ever made – to Northern California TRACON (NCT).

PWC IS A PLACE TO LEARN AND GROW FOR ALL AIR TRAFFIC PROFESSIONALSOne of the main reasons I wanted to become the VP of PWC was to combat the myth PWC is for management only, or for those wanting to get into manage-ment. Nothing could be further from the truth. I am a proud member of the National Air Traffic Controllers Associa-tion (NATCA) and have no intentions of changing my job title – best job in the world!

Of course, I have learned never to say never – you could turn around and suddenly find yourself vice president of a national organization (oh wait…I went into this with my eyes wide open)! What I mean is you don’t know what life is going to bring you or what choices you may make in the future. I do know PWC is a place to learn and grow for all air traffic professionals.

I joined PWC at the insistence of my first manager. When I started at the tower in Roswell, I was the only woman. At that point, I had been in aviation for a number of years, so for me it wasn’t an unusual situation, but it concerned my manager. He knew

several of the women in PWC and said “Hey, here is this great organization you need to join.”

He didn’t want me to be out there alone and knew I might need some support and wanted to help develop my career. In his opinion, I would be running the FAA one day – not sure if that prediction will come true, but the career development opportunities sure are true. I’d like to say I would have found my own way here eventually, but I didn’t have to. Luckily, I ran into someone wise enough to see the benefits and generous enough to want to pass them on.

BENEFITS OF PWC MEMBERSHIPWhen asked, “What are the benefits of being involved in PWC?” the first that comes to mind is networking. This is a huge benefit of PWC. Before I moved to NCT, one of my coworkers asked, “Is it true you got picked up at a level 12 facil-ity without ever having visited?” While I had been to the facility years before, it was true I had not gone out on a self-promoting visit, so to speak.

Through PWC, I knew people who worked there. While I had not worked with them as a controller, I had served with them on the PWC Board, and they at least knew something about me. Yes, the union can and does help with networking as well. But can you have a circle too big when it comes to networking? I don’t think so!

8 the WATCH winter 2014-15

Q&A With Christine Johnson

1. How has PWC’s mission to provide support, training, encouragement and camaraderie for all air traffic professionals specifically related to what you do in your personal and professional life? Partially because of my involvement with PWC, I try to be the positive influence – the one with the good attitude. I try to help where I can and always talk to and try to include everyone. Providing support is right up my alley – even in high school my friends said I should have a “super hero” shirt with moral support on it.

2. PWC’s mission also includes advocating a balanced work and family life, recruitment and retention of excellent employees, development of people, enjoyment of work and maintaining a positive sense of community. What PWC activities have you observed or participated in that support this mission?There are way too many to list, but I’ll try: training conference, socials, school visits, aviation conferences and facility visits. Something as simple as a social where we get together and talk about our lives, not just our work – that’s an important benefit.

My favorites are the outreach programs. I have been involved in so many different career days where I have an opportunity to talk to high school

girls about this amazing thing we do. I want to pass on this special career to the next generation!

3. PWC encourages women to enter the air traffic control profession and assists members in professional and personal development, in maintaining professionalism and in promoting cooperation and coordination among individuals. In a practical sense, how has this worked in your career? Developing myself definitely has made me a better controller. Attending and partici-pating in PWC Training Conferences and being exposed to the other facets of the agency, I now understand the structure and usually the meaning behind things.

Before my involvement with PWC, it always was so frustrating just to be told to do something. However, when you are aware of the background and understand why, you can see the reasons for a directive and do a better job of embracing them.

Any knowledge I receive is immediately passed on to my coworkers, and then they too may be able to experience the same change of heart and understanding that I feel. Networking as a PWC member definitely was an important element in obtaining my current job.

4. What does PWC mean to you personally? It’s my second family – a place that has helped me to grow and has pushed me to do more – with a safety net behind me. Knowing you have support and can find someone who has been through the same

or similar things makes all the differ-ence. Not all of my friends and family really understand what we do; this group certainly does.

5. How has PWC contributed to your sense of well-being? What is the best thing you’ve learned from PWC membership?My sense of well-being has been helped by having my confidence built up, by receiving the feedback that you’re really good at this and that people want you to lead is truly amazing.

Having your peers share this feedback means even more. As I stated before, PWC supplies a safety net, giving you confidence to know you aren’t out on a limb alone.

The best thing I learned as a PWC member? How influential you can be without meaning to be. How much of a leader I really am – and how it is possible to lead just by displaying your passion and demeanor. In addition, I learned what roles or jobs I did not want to pursue.

6. How would you describe the benefits of PWC participation to other women in the FAA?I would say: networking, making life-long friends and gaining an opportunity to observe and understand the many different sides of the agency. Membership in PWC will open up many different avenues – whether you want to travel them or not – you will know they exist. In PWC, you also help to pave the way for others. ✈

the WATCH winter 2014-15 9

My sense of well-being has been helped by having my confidence built up, by receiving the feedback that you’re really good at this and that people want you to lead is truly amazing. Having your peers share this feedback means even more. As I stated before, PWC supplies a safety net, giving you confidence to know you aren’t out on a limb alone.

10 the WATCH winter 2014-15

Face it. The way you look affects the way you think, the way you feel, the way you act or communicate and the

way others react to you. Like it or not, people make assessments and assump-tions about you based on your appear-ance – your image. It’s a fact of life. You are always communicating something!

Dress standards on the whole have declined. What was instituted as “casual Friday” has eroded into a casual workweek, weekend and life. Differences between formal and casual business dress, as well as social dress, have become blurred or obliterated.

People are rightfully confused about what is appropriate to wear in business and social situations. Too many people have gone to the extreme in casual dress to the point where they compromise their integrity and miss opportunities to positively influence co-workers, church and community group peers and even their own children.

IMAGE INTEGRITY IS VITALTo be respected and heard by others, it is important to develop and maintain a consistently positive visual message.

Present and communicate a non-verbal message that reflects your values, atti-tudes, abilities, position and authority, congruent with the expectations of your consumers, peers and family. That’s what image integrity is all about!

A key to success in business, or in the accomplishment of any goal, is your ability to communicate. The clarity of your communication and the way you are perceived, listened to and understood, is often affected by the way you look, how you’re groomed, your body language and the way you communicate your message.

PRESENTING A POSITIVE PROFESSIONAL IMAGEThink about it. Have you ever wondered why your ideas and solutions weren’t being received and considered the way they should be? Is your image working for you in the best possible way?

Here are just a few of the many benefits of a positive professional image:• Increase self-confidence and self- acceptance • Enjoy more comfort with yourself and with others

• Work more effectively with both men and women• Deal more effectively with negative or aggressive people• Achieve increased credibility• Receive more respect and courtesy• Gain increased focus on what you are saying• Reduce negotiating time• Get promoted more quickly• Win more earning power

A positive image that accurately reflects your abilities, values and personality is a powerful tool. Put it to use today, and see what wonderful things happen! ✈

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robinn Scholfield is an Image Coach with over 30 years experience in sales and marketing. She uses her marketing

expertise, along with her training at Conselle Image Institute, to teach people how to present themselves and communicate effectively in business and personal relationships.

Robinn will be presenting two workshops at the 2015 PWC Conference in Kansas City. If you have a question or are facing an image dilemma, please feel free to email Robinn at info@imageevolutionkc.com.

PWC 2015 TRAINING CONFERENCE PREVIEW

Is Your Image Working For You? By Robinn Scholfield, Image Evolution Image Coach

“Wow! Thank you Robinn for making my wardrobe audit a FABULOUS experience! Thank you for going through my closet to help me put professional outfits together. Your knowledge of what styles I should be wearing to make the biggest impact was priceless. The time we spent together boosted my confidence for an upcoming meeting, and I’ve been getting many compliments on my business appearance on a regular basis. I’m looking forward to working together soon to add to my wardrobe.”-Kirsten N., Kansas City, KS

Control Tower

Murtala Muhammed Internation Airport

Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

25th of June, 2014

Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

P.O. Box 23924

L’Enfant Plaza

Washington, D.C. 20024

Dear Ma,

On behalf of members of the National Black Coalition here in Nigeria,

we wish to show our appreciation to the Professional Women Controller’s Inc.

Thanks for your presence (in the person of Norma Ely) and all your gifts for the participant in

the course of our 1st annual Aviation Career Education Camp, held in Nigeria on the 28th of

May, 2014.

You made us proud, and we are proud of PWC. The gifts were of immense joy to the children

who participated. We had over 250 students from various schools, and the gifts went round to

them all.

Once again, I say, THANK YOU very much for identifying with us in Africa. Your support

went a long way. Thanks again, and see at the next PWC conference!

Yours Faithfully,

Fatokun E. A.

Mrs. Eunice Fatokun

eunicefatokun@yahoo.com

+2348057180528

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2015 PWC NATIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE

“NAVIGATING THE CROSSROADS” | INTERCONTINENTAL KANSAS CITY AT THE PLAZA

KANSAS CITY, MO | APRIL 26-29, 2015

PWC’s 2015 National Training Conference, Navigating the Crossroads, is now just a few months away. The PWC confer-ence committee, chaired by Christina Calvert, is busy putting

together an exciting training agenda as well as a rich variety of social activities and networking opportunities for the event.

The City of Fountains is practically overflowing with adventure. Whether it’s the scent of smoldering BBQ luring you to a plate of ribs, the sweet echo of jazz welcoming an evening of entertainment or the spray of fountains inviting you to kick off your shoes and make a splash, you’ll sense inspiration in the air – and find it along every boulevard.

Kansas City is a place where wide boulevards, bountiful parks, beautiful architecture and more than 200 fountains welcome you with open arms – and an open mind. From world-class arts and entertainment to world-famous barbecue, it’s impossible to imagine Kansas City without these three highlights – jazz, barbecue and fountains! They’re a testament to the city’s culture, history and heart.

EXPERIENCE LANDMARK ELEGANCE AT KANSAS CITY’S BEST ADDRESSThe InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza is a modern land-mark hotel in the City of Fountains. Just steps from the hotel is

the superb Diana and Cherubs fountain at historic Country Club Plaza, where Seville-inspired architecture houses exclusive boutique shopping. Modeled after sister city Seville, Spain, this upscale 14-square-block entertainment district is filled with romantic Moorish architecture, outdoor artwork and intricate fountains.

The luxurious and convenient InterContinental offers beautifully designed suites, an outdoor pool and an elegant Oak Room Bar where guests enjoy stunning views of the Plaza and live music five nights a week. Connected via covered walkway to Kansas City Convention Center & Bartle Hall, the InterContinental offers easy access for meetings and conventions.

JOIN US APRIL 25TH IN ATCHISON, KANSASArrive a couple days early and join PWC’s day trip to Atchison, Kansas on April 25. In Atchison, we will visit the birthplace of Amelia Earhart and enjoy a BBQ picnic at the Forest of Friendship, a memorial to the World History of Aviation and Aerospace. To quote Amelia Earhart: “You haven’t seen a tree until you’ve seen its shadow from the sky.”

Stay a few days after the conference to enjoy a First Friday’s Art Fair and/or a Warehouse Weekend, where old warehouses teeming with antiques and vintage merchandise are open to the public.

We look forward to seeing you at the conference!

JAZZ

As one jazz genius put it, “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing.” And, rest assured, Kansas City has it. From the roaring ‘20s through the early ‘40s, jazz reigned supreme in Kansas City – and you can still hear its sounds throughout the city. Head to the 18th and Vine Historic Jazz District to discover instant proof to the genre’s rich KC roots.

Then take in The American Jazz Museum, featuring legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Finally, take in a late-night jam session at the Mutual Musicians Foundation. And, when you’re near 18th & Vine, stop by the Charlie Parker Memorial Plaza to see the 17-foot bronze sculpture that bears his likeness.

FOUNTAINS

With more than 200 fountains throughout the city, it’s no surprise KC earned the nickname, “The City of Fountains.” The Humane Society built the city’s first fountains as water troughs for horses in the late 1800s.

Now cherished works of public art, the fountains have become an attraction unto themselves, beckoning a steady stream of visitors – especially the Fountain of Neptune on Country Club Plaza, the Waterworks Spectacular at Kauffman Stadium and the Civic Courtyard Fountain inside The Legends at Village West.

BARBECUE

No visit to KC is complete until you can literally taste it. Luckily, it’s a taste you’re guaranteed to enjoy – legendary KC barbecue. Today, you’ll find more than 100 barbecue establishments, each boasting its own personal house special – from staples like ribs, pork and ham to not-so-standards, like mutton, sausage and even fish. Many of these are members of the Kansas City Barbeque Society– the world’s largest organization of barbecue and grilling enthusiasts.

Kansas City, Here We Come!By Christine Johnson, Vice President, PWC

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2015 PWC NATIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE

“NAVIGATING THE CROSSROADS” | INTERCONTINENTAL KANSAS CITY AT THE PLAZA

KANSAS CITY, MO | APRIL 26-29, 2015

FULL REGISTRATION FEES: (Includes opening reception on Sunday, all training sessions, lunch on Tuesday, and closing banquet on Wednesday.) Check choice and add amount to total box below.

– OR –PARTIAL REGISTRATION FEES: Intended for registrants who can only attend part of the conference. Full day includes training and meal (where appli-cable) for that day. Check choice(s) and add amount to total box below left.

CATEGORYPostmarked on or before

March 26, 2015Postmarked on or after

March 27, 2015

Par tial registration or extra t ickets.

- - - DAY - - -Member Non-Member

PWC MEMBER $195 $205Sun - 04/26

Opening Reception$45 $55

NON MEMBER $245 $265Mon - 04/27

Full Day$30 $50

MAKE YOUR HOTEL RESERVATIONS TODAY!INTERCONTINENTAL KANSAS CIT Y

AT THE PL AZACALL 866-856-9717

REFERENCE OUR GROUP NAME:“PWC 2105 ANNUAL TRAINING”

Tues - 04/28 Full Day w/ Lunch

$55 $75

Wed - 04/29 Full day w/Banquet

$85 $100

Please make checks or money order s payable to “2015 Conference PWC”. TOTAL: $

Plan now to ar r ive in KC a day or two ear ly ; see the sites, and join your fr iends for a fun-packed day tr ip

on Saturday, Apr il 25th!

Mail: Send registration and payment to: PWC 2015

c/o Chr istina Calver t 11016 Parkview Ave. Kansas City, KS 66109

or : V isit PWCinc.org for online registration

One Person per Registration Form, please.Name Name Preferred on Nametag

Mailing Address Facility/Office/Organization

City, State, Zip Code Position

Area Code + Phone Number Please check each of the following that apply:

FAA Service Area: Western CENTRAL EASTERN

PWC Region: AL CE EA GL NE NM SO SW WP

Other: HQ AMC ACT Military Other______________

Additional Info: 1st Time Conference Attendee Retired Academy Student

E-Mail Address

I am a PWC............................(Please check all that apply)

Member Exhibitor

Charter Member Corporate Member Guest

Other (please specify)_____________________________________

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H ere are some of the ideas conveyed by our panel. Or, I should say, this is what I heard:

SHARE YOUR UNIQUE COMMUNICATIONS – SHARE HOW YOU REMOVE BARRIERS

Tim Arel, Deputy VP ATO Safety & Technical Training: Communication and information are different; you need to discover if the message is getting through. Get as much feedback as you can.

Carolyn Bostwick, Assistant Administrator of Human Resources: You have to make your thoughts visible, become a great storyteller. Realize that conflict is inevitable, and never let them see you sweat.

Joe Teixeira, VP for Safety & Technical Training: Communication with large groups, recognize this is difficult. Partnerships are important. Be available to those around you.

SHARE HOW YOU CELEBRATE DIVERSITY

Elizabeth Lynn Ray, VP Mission Support Services: Do you value the difference of people? If you value that, you will hire that way. A true picture of value is diver-sity. This provides a stronger product.

Terry Biggio, VP Air Traffic Services: In management, you get the opportunity to choose diversity. I am very sensitive to women’s issues, having two daughters. Make sure all groups are represented.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT CHANGE? SHARE YOUR CONSTANTS

Tim Arel: Enjoy change. Look for the opportunity it presents.

Frank Hatfield, Director of System Operations Security: “Change sucks;”no change has been optional. Look for the good points, keep a sense of humor and lead by example.

Dennis Roberts, Director of Airspace Service: “The only certain is change.” Identify your goal and objective prior to change. Combat the attitude of “it has always been that way.”

E. Lynn Ray: Change is inevitable. Be flexible but with focus. Know yourself; know where your core values are. Have a basic respect for people, and lead by example.

Mary Sherer, Director of ATO Eastern Service Area North: Lots of new people are coming into the agency; use this time to change the culture. Step up, and work with the new generation; it might surprise you.

PWC Sponsors “Chat and Chew” at FAA HeadquartersChristine Johnson, Vice President, PWC

How do you go from being an air traffic controller to an Executive Vice President? Do our FAA executives have challenges such as team building and leading change? Do you think their organizational skills have been perfected? Executives or high performing leaders have learned some lessons which they shared during our PWC-sponsored “Chat and Chew.”

TOP PHOTO (L-R): Joseph S.Teixeira,Vice President of Safety and Technical Training, ATO; Terry Biggio, Vice President of Air Traffic Services, ATO; Mamie W. Mallory, Assistant Administrator for Civil Rights, FAA and Carrolyn J. Bostick, Assistant Administrator for Human Resource Management,FAA.

MIDDLE PHOTO (L-R): Diana Eldridge, Christine Johnson, Michelle Bales-Woods and Carrolyn Bostick.

BOTTOM PHOTO (L-R): Maria Hofbauer, Deena Collier, Connie Atlagovich, Michelle Bales-Woods, Diana Eldridge, Christina Munro, Pam Sheeler, Marcy Soto, Aimee Shingleton, Christine Johnson, Lindsey Knox and Norma Ely.

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JOIN NOW!professional women

controllers, inc. membership application

New Member

Renewal-Membership #

PLEASE FILL IN ALL INFORMATION:

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Phone (H)

(W)

Region/Facility

Facility Address (if not FAA)

Position Title

E-Mail

Month/Day of Birth

Recruited by

Request Dues Withholding Form (also available at www.pwcinc.org)

CATEGORIES OF MEMBERSHIP

Active – ATCS employed by an ATC service provider $156

Associate – Non-air traffic control specialists $78

Corporate – Organizations or corporations $400

Student – Must meet enrollment criteria $30

Alumnus – Retired ATCS $50

FORM OF PAYMENT

Master Card Visa

Check (payable to PWC, Inc.)

Account Number

Expiration Date

Cardholder’s Name (Print)

Billing Address

Authorized Signature

(Sign as name appears on card)

Mail form to:Professional Women Controllers, Inc., P.O. Box 23924, L’Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC 20024

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Jodi McCarthy, Director of Air Traffic Control Facilities: Our world is changing. As an agency, we need to be agile and embrace it.

Chris Metts, VP Program Management Operations: It is inevitable. Embracing it helps tolerate it. Hold on to your passion and values as your constant.

Mammie Mallory, Assistant Administrator of Civil Rights: Embraces change by controlling the change. Strong work ethic, integrity and direct communications need to be constant.

SHARE YOUR TEAM BUILDING SECRETS

Frank Hatfield: Be greater than the sum of your parts. You know your people; everyone has a unique set of skills; use them. Play your strengths, and when promoted, don’t change. You got to where you are, because of who you are.

Dennis Roberts: Know the DNA, the strengths and weaknesses of the team, and know that early. Develop relationships.

Terry Biggio: Team building is hard. Use ‘we’ statements, and focus on listening.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE CONFLICT RESOLUTION?

Mary Sherer: Active listening is the key characteristic and continue to listen. You may have to step back sometimes, but don’t run. Conflict is not a bad thing.

Chris Metts: The key is to not wait for the conflict. Be proactive, not reactive. Do not avoid conflict; take it on.

Carrolyn Bostick: When in a group, answer the question: What problem are we trying to solve?

Joseph Teixeira: First, use authority. Then compromise, accommodate and, finally, go along to get along.

WHAT IS YOUR THEORY ON LEADERSHIP?

Jodi McCarthy: My team is good at what they do. Let the experts be the experts. As a leader, insert yourself only when and where needed. Never turn down an unexpected opportunity.

Carrolyn Bostick: You can learn to be an organizational leader. The communication upward as well as downward is important. Your peer relationships are important.

YOUR THOUGHTS ON ETHICS?

Mary Sherer: Trust. Challenge, if you see something unethical.

Lynn Ray: You can lose integrity in an instant. Ethics is common sense. If you do not know, ask. Watch your email etiquette; it is a quick way to undo a relationship.

Dennis Roberts: This is what you do when no one is watching. If you do not know something, find out. Remember, social media is watched by everyone.

Jodi McCarthy: People are losing their careers over silly stuff – think about what you do.

Frank Hatfield: Ethics is personal and variable. When faced with an issue: 70 percent of the time, I do not care;

Work with a variety of services. Step out of your comfort zone. Have diversity in your career. Know how the ATO works. Know more about culture and being a leader. Look for opportunities. Network. Where it works and how it relates to the industry. Continuous education. Be familiar with how a program is run. Expand your knowledge of the agency. Be multi-dimensional.

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20 percent, I just want to be heard, and only 10 percent of things dearly mat-ter. The key is to know which is which.

Tim Arel: Your character is built over a lifetime; someone is always watching. When something goes wrong, don’t lie or cover it up. This only makes it worse.

PLEASE SHARE WHAT MIGHT BE USEFUL TO GET HIRED FOR YOUR JOB TODAY

E ach job and line of business had slightly different perspectives, but here are the common variables:Work with a variety of services.

Step out of your comfort zone. Have diversity in your career. Know how the ATO works. Know more about culture and being a leader. Look for opportunities. Network. Where it works and how it relates to the industry. Continuous education. Be familiar with how a program is run. Expand your knowledge of the agency. Be multi-dimensional.

As you read, our panel continues to work through the challenges we all have. We need to delegate, communicate and support those above us, our peers and those who work for us. Keep improving on your strengths;

work on your weaknesses, but don’t ever give up on your dream.

We had a great time speaking with our panel members. Our membership also asked questions about the Employee Requested Reassignment (ERR) process and the upcoming changes. Where are the new hires going to go? How is the agency helping the people in the ATC level 5, 6, 7 and 8s to provide the opportunity to move to the higher level facilities? Is the agency looking into the medical disqualifications for medications, to ensure it is meeting the requirements necessary to minimize controller down time.

Joseph Teixeira, Safety VP, is definitely concerned about this topic. He wants to ensure controllers have the time needed to recover but is also concerned about the length of time

it is taking to be reinstated. A larger concern is controllers might not divulge the medication they are taking, because of their dedication to their work and their peers.

They don’t want to negatively impact the already critical staffing and put their peers in a bad position of working short. There is the potential safety risk of working traffic, while taking disqualifying medications.

A very special thank you goes out to PWC’s Eastern Regional Director, Norma Ely. Norma planned and executed a professional and engaging event. Thank you, Norma, for such a spectacular event. And, thanks to our wonderful guest panelists for your open and honest answers. ✈

TOP ROW (L-R): Tina Santiago, Connie Atlagovich, Pam Sheeler, Aimee Shingleton, Lindsey Knox and Christina Munro

BOTTOM ROW (L-R): Michelle Bales-Woods, Marcy Soto, Diana Eldridge, Trish Gilbert, Christine Johnson, Maria Hofbauer and Patti Wilson.

A very special thank you goes out to PWC’s Eastern Regional Director, Norma Ely. Norma planned and executed a professional and engaging event. Thank you, Norma, for such a spectacular event. And, thanks to our wonderful guest panelists for your open and honest answers.

Randy Park Acting Deputy COO

Tim ArelDeputy VP ATO Safety &

Technical Training

James EckDeputy VP Program

Management Organization

Dennis Roberts Director of Airspace Service

Mary ShererDirector of ATO Eastern

Service Area North

Jodi McCarthy Director of ATO Facilities

Steve OsterdahlDirector of ATO Western

Service Area North

David Boone Director of Technical Training

Joseph Teixeira VP of Safety and Technical Training

Elizabeth Ray VP Mission Support Services

Chris MettsVP Program Management

Organization

Terry Biggio VP Air Traffic Services

Carrolyn BostickAssistant Administrator for Human

Resource Management

Mamie MalloryAssistant Administrator for

Civil Rights

Franklin HatfieldDirector of System Operations

Security

GUEST PANELISTS

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(L-R): Michelle Whitcher, Marcy Soto, Tina Santiago, Pam Sheeler, Pam Teasley and Diana Eldridge.

HOW TO NETWORK AT A PWC CONFERENCEBy Christina Calvert, 2015 Conference Chair, PWC

1. Attend! This is obvious. More importantly, don’t just attend the training sessions; attend the activities offered.

2. Don’t miss out on the opening reception. If it’s your first conference, the first hour of the reception is dedicated to you! It is an opportunity for you to have one-on-one time with your Board of Directors.

3. During conference breaks, attendees navigate toward the corporate sponsors or the auction table (Bonus: food is sometimes in this area!) Don’t sneak off to your room! Our sponsors attend conference every year and know many members.

4. Gather a group for dinner. If you already have friends attending, invite someone new to join you. On the last evening in Orlando, an attendee (and new friend) told me she was so grateful she was asked to join our group for dinner earlier in the week.

5. Stop by the hospitality suite in the evening. This is a great place to visit before dinner and find out which restaurant is recommended. After dinner, it’s a comfortable, casual place to hang out. I find people easily approachable in the hospitality suite. Be prepared to laugh a lot and maybe meet your new BFF.

6. Ask the first question! I have found the FAA is a small world. The odds are you will have at least one thing or one person in common with most attendees (besides air traffic control).

7. “Fake it until you become it.” That line was taken from the Ted Talk given by Amy Cuddy. A definite must see--if you are overwhelmed and unsure of yourself.

8. Look me up! I am so honored and excited to be planning the 2015 conference. I would love to meet you and introduce you to some amazing members!

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Retirement and Fulfilling Your Bucket ListSue Townsend, Historian, PWC

Sue’s pride and joy – her 23 ft. International Airstream trailer, ready for the next adventure!

F or those of you who are retired or thinking of retiring, I know you have a bucket list to fulfill. Me too!

One of the things I always wanted to do was travel the USA – see all the National Parks, and do it hauling an Airstream Trailer!!

JUNE IN THE CATSKILLSWell I did it! In June, I took off from Florida in my 23’ International Airstream trailer and went to my 55th high school class reunion in the Catskills in upstate New York. I spent three months there visiting classmates, friends and family.

SEPTEMBER IN BAR HARBOR, MAINEIn September, I left New York, and headed to Bar Harbor, Maine – staying at the KOA on the water – it was beautiful: lovely sunsets over the water – occasional Northern lights, touring Bar Harbor and

Acadia National Park. And I got to see the leaves change – but I did not see a moose, so I will have to go back.

But the highlight was eating fresh lobsters – it was a wonderful trip!

AND, THE NEW YORK COMMON IFR ROOM GANG IN PENNSYLVANIAOn the way back to Florida, I stopped in Pennsylvania at the Inn at Pocono Manor for the first reunion of the New York Common IFR Room gang. I was the only woman asked, but then I was the first and only woman in the JFK Sector. It was great to see the “guys” again and meet some of their wives. Outside, Pennsylvania and some New York State Police were looking for the cop killer – who was still on the loose.

So hang in there folks – plan ahead for retirement, and if already retired, get out and enjoy life. ✈

...The highlight was eating fresh lobsters – it was a wonderful trip!

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Best Approach Chart Ever!

Jeppesen Honors Sully and SkilesSue Townsend, Historian, PWC

J eppesen, known in the avia-tion industry as a worldwide leader in navigation and

charting services, paid homage to a well done and professional job by producing a one-in-a-lifetime Approach Chart!

Miracle on the Hudson pilots Captain Chesley Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles received a specially designed approach chart (reproduced here) to commemorate the remarkable ditching of US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River in New York in January 2009.

Entitled “Hudson Miracle APCH”, the one-of-a-kind chart includes several lighthearted notations that honor the famous water landing that saved the lives of 155 passengers and crew on board the flight disabled by bird strikes. In the “briefing strip” section of the chart, instructions include:

“After water landing, oversee evacuation of ALL SOULS from airplane. Float via HUDSON RIVER to RESCUE point. Once everyone is SAFE aboard rescue boats, secure passenger list and double check cabin. Captain is last to exit. Give THANKS.”

The chart documents the historic five-minute flight with a unique graphic, beginning with departure from LaGuardia Airport, followed by a “Cooked Goose Transition” point and “Hudson River Approach,” which is then followed by “Splash” and “Rescue” points on the water. Definitely, one of the best gifts ever! ✈ HUDSON MIRACLE APCH

“After water landing, oversee evacuation of ALL SOULS from airplane. Float via HUDSON RIVER to RESCUE point. Once everyone is SAFE aboard rescue boats, secure passenger list and double check cabin. Captain is last to exit. Give THANKS.”

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There are three ways to apply for a PWC Scholarship:

� Apply as a PWC member, a student member or as an immediate family mem-ber of a PWC member – any field of study is allowed.

� Apply for a Recruitment Scholarship, if you are a woman enrolled in or attending an accredited air traffic control training school. PWC membership is not required.

� Apply for the Jacque Smith Burdette Career in Aviation Scholarship; PWC mem-bership is not required, only a desire for a career in aviation.

You may qualify for one of these special PWC Scholarships

MARY MCBURNEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: The PWC Board of Directors designated this scholarship in honor of our late past-president whose passion for PWC’s Scholarship program got it off the ground. This honor goes to every PWC member who is awarded a PWC Scholarship.

HERMAN J. LYONS, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: Awarded to a candidate who stands out above the rest for his/her service to their community, excellence in academics and dedication to the advancement of aviation education or design. The late Herm Lyons was a tireless supporter of PWC – he had a lifelong dedication to the Agency, the employees of FAA and promotion of women and minorities in the agency. Herm exemplified excellence and hard work – many of the attributes we look for in applicants for our scholarships.

JACQUELINE SMITH BURDETTE SCHOLARSHIP: PWC co-founder Jacqueline Smith Burdette created an annually funded scholarship to encourage those planning careers in aviation or to advance their career in aviation. Since aviation was such a wonderful part of Jacque’s and her late husband’s lives, she wants to encourage others to enter the field. There is no pre-requisite other

than enrollment in an accredited college or technical school in an aviation-related program. Open to both men and women, the Scholarship does not require membership in PWC. Applicants need only intend a career in an aviation-related field.

MARGARET HOFFMAN PWC SCHOLARSHIP: This scholarship is for FAA women who are active air traffic controllers – not staff, supervision or management. It is dedicated to Margaret Hoffman (1918-2006), a controller from 1943-1981 in Nashville, Tenn., and the other women controllers who went before us. Margaret was a Charter Member of PWC; she dedicated her life to her career and her family and was a role model for all of us in this field. We owe her and the other women a huge debt of gratitude for opening the doors for all of us. This scholarship can be used for any course of study, either to advance an ATC career or prepare the recipient for a second career. Recipient must be a member of PWC. This scholarship was created by Sue Mostert Townsend, PWC Co-Founder, First President (1979-1981), currently PWC Historian.

Background and Purpose

The PWC Scholarship Program was established in 1991 to assist members in completing their higher education and to recognize and reward academically superior performance. It was later expanded to include eligible, immediate family of PWC members. The Recruitment Scholarship was established in 2000 to support PWC’s purpose of encouraging qualified women to enter the Air Traffic profession. PWC scholarships are available on a competitive basis to undergraduate, graduate and technical students.

Eligibility Requirements• Candidate must be a member of PWC,

or the spouse, son or daughter of a member; any field of study is allowed.

• The Jacqueline Smith Burdette Career in Aviation Scholarship does not require PWC membership.

• Recruitment candidates are encouraged to become a student member, but it is not required. A recruitment candidate must be a female enrolled in or selected to commence an FAA recognized air traffic training or air traffic co-op program.

Application Period and Deadlines

The application filing period is October 1st through February 15th. To ensure acceptance, the completed package shall be mailed to the PWC P.O. Box, postmarked by February 15th.

Application Package Instructions

Please ensure that the application package is complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application package must include the following:

APPLICATION: The application form must be completed, with no blanks. If an item does not apply indicate so with “N/A.”

SELF-ASSESSMENT ESSAY (SHOULD NOT EXCEED TWO PAGES):

Please describe the following:

• Long and short range career goals and how you expect a PWC scholarship to contribute toward them

• Opportunities this educational experience creates for you

• Professional and personal accomplishments

• Community involvement and leadership activities, volunteer work, membership in organizations, extracurricular activities, public speaking experiences

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION:

• Submit two letters of recommendation from individuals not related to you. These letters should discuss your personal and academic achievements.

Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

2015 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM & INSTRUCTIONS

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• Submit a third letter from a teacher or academic official if you are enrolled in college, or another accredited program or flight school.

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT/PROOF OF ENROLLMENT:

• Submit an official transcript if you are already in college, or proof of enrollment in a school you are about to enter.

• For new college students, proof of actual registration will be required prior to disbursement of funds.

• If accepted into an FAA recognized air traffic training program with planned enrollment in the future, provide a letter of acceptance from the school. Submit a document from an instructor if enrolled in a flight school, etc.

General Information

Selection consideration will be based upon the completed package. The national scholarship committee will screen and select applicants. Selection guidelines may be found in the PWC SOP. Scholarship recipients will be announced at the PWC National Training Conference. The scholarship winner’s name and photograph will be used for publication. If selected, please submit a high resolution digital photograph immediately.

Responsibility of Recipients

Scholarship recipients should provide an oral report at the General Business Meeting during the PWC National Training Conference the following year. This report is intended to update the membership on the recipient’s progress, stating how the scholarship was used. In the event that attendance is not possible, a written report shall be provided to the Scholarship Committee Chairperson no later than March 31st prior to the Conference.

Professional Women Controllers, Inc.

2015 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM & INSTRUCTIONS

CHECK ONE:

PWC Member or immediate family member

Woman aspiring to become an air traffic control specialist

Jacque Smith Burdette Career in Aviation Scholarship (PWC membership is not required, only a desire for a career in aviation.)

Name __________________________________________________________________________

Address _________________________________________________________________________

City _____________________________________________State ________ Zip ______________

Home Phone ____________________________________ E-Mail _________________________

Occupation and Title ______________________________________________________________

If FAA, facility name/level __________________________________________________________

Facility/Work Address ______________________________________________________________

________________________________________________ Work Phone _____________________

Circle PWC Affiliation i.e., Active | Student | Associate | Non-member | Family

If a family member, indicate name/relationship of the PWC member: ______________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Highest academic degree and where obtained ________________________________________

Course(s) to be taken _____________________________________________________________

Start date _____________________________________ Completion date __________________

Name of school _________________________________ Phone __________________________

Address of school ________________________________________________________________

Contact name/title of school official ________________ Tuition Cost ______________________

Estimated cost of books and supplies ________________________________________________

Have you received a PWC scholarship in the past? If so, year/amount? ____________________

I certify that the information in my application is true and reflects an honest appraisal of my ability to complete the goal requested herein. If awarded a scholarship, I understand that I am required to report to the PWC General Membership at the annual business meeting to inform them of my progress. I agree that if I do not participate in the above named course of study, I will reimburse PWC this scholarship award amount.

SIGNATURE ______________________________________ DATE ________________________

Completed scholarship package must be POSTMARKED by February 15.

Mail application package to: Professional Women Controllers, Inc.P.O. Box 23924Washington, DC 20024

Any questions? Email PWC’s Scholarship Chair, Karen Pontius, at pontius.karen@gmail.com

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SOUTHWESTIntroducing Jennifer Lemmon, New PWC Southwest Regional Director

Jennifer Lemmon, Southwest Regional Director, PWC

Hello to all from Houston Intercontinen-tal (IAH). My name is Jennifer Lemmon, the newest Front Line Manager to join the IAH Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) team and the newest Regional Director for PWC in the wonderful Southwest Region.

My air traffic control career began at Orlando International ATCT (MCO) in 2007. In 2011, while at MCO, I served a two-year detail as a Plans and Procedures Specialist, and, in 2012, was promoted to a Front Line Manager position.

Prior to my FAA career, I worked at US Airways and US Airways Express for approximately 12 years, filling various positions. Additionally, I served the Allegheny County Airport Authority in Pittsburgh as an Airfield Operations Supervisor for two years.

Since 2012, I have been an active member of PWC. My daughter, Sydney, and I enjoy traveling together and are avid fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

As a member of the PWC Board of Directors, I want to help the organization increase its membership and expand its circle of influence in any way I can. Throughout my career, I have been very successful in motivating others to “envision the mission and get the job done”.

In addition, I am passionate about my career and eager to share the rewards of serving the FAA as well as the benefits of being part of an organization such as PWC. I feel strongly about the importance of the job we do as air traffic controllers, and feel very comfortable generating discussions and debate among my subordinates, peers and superiors regarding the FAA’s commitment to diversity.

I look forward to meeting and

interacting with everyone involved in PWC. Should you ever need anything, please feel free to contact me any time!

CENTRALPrepare for a Great 2015 PWC Conference in Kansas City!

Michelle Bales-Woods, Central Regional Director, PWC

We’re very busy getting ready for the 2015 PWC Conference in Kansas City – which is a great place to visit and has much to offer. I hope everyone “navigates their way to the crossroads” and visits us here in the “City of Fountains.”

Christina Calvert, 2015 PWC Conference Chair, is hard at work, and I cannot wait for the conference. Sounds as if the training opportunities are superb, too!

Also, I welcome Nancy Thompson, former Southwest Regional Director of PWC and 2016 Conference Chair, to the Central Region. Nancy is now a Front Line Manager at Kansas City Center.

SOUTHERNIntroducing Lindsey Knox, New PWC Southern Regional Director

Lindsey Knox, Southern Regional Director, PWC

Hello, PWC members from the Southern Region – I’m Lindsey Knox. For over five-and-one-half-years, I have happily been an air traffic controller with the FAA in the “paradise district.” I’ve been a PWC member since 2010, a National Air Traffic Control Association (NATC)A member since 2009, and, in June 2014, I because the Southern Regional Director of PWC.

In terms of background, I attended Middle Tennessee State University, obtaining a BS in business and aviation along with receiving a certified training initiative for air traffic. Before being an air traffic controller, I worked for accounting

firms in Jacksonville, Florida and Cincinnati, Ohio for eight years – which led me to return to college at 26.

This air traffic career has been both rewarding and one of the most difficult experiences of my life. I look forward to the twists, turns, ups and downs and anything else air traffic has in store!

GREAT LAKESRewarding PWC Board Meeting in Washington, D.C.

Connie Atlagovich, Great Lakes Regional Director, PWC

Hello All! Recently, I returned from the autumn 2014 PWC Board of Directors Meeting in Washington, D.C., and appre-ciated the opportunity to represent Great Lakes Region there! This meeting not only supplied an opportunity to perform required Board of Director Business for PWC but also to meet FAA officials with whom I might not otherwise have a chance to meet on a one-on-one basis in a small setting.

We chatted with ATO Vice Presidents from all lines of business and also with some ATO Directors. As a PWC Board member, I was able to question members of FAA management in an open, candid setting.

That being said, my term as Great Lakes (GL) Regional Director ends in May 2015. Meetings with ATO management are just one example of the many opportunities available to the new GL Regional Director. In addition, like me, you will be blessed with meeting new friends from all over the country!

Please seriously consider becoming a PWC Regional Director to make your voice heard on a different, broader platform. Applications and information are available online and also in this issue of The WATCH. Don’t miss this rewarding opportunity! ✈

Regional News

the WATCH winter 2014-15 23

ANNOUNCES NEW TOLL-FREE NUMBER 1-855-FAA-BENE (322-2363)FAA has implemented a new Benefits Operations Center (BOC) toll-free number which enables employees to speak directly to a Benefits member Monday through Friday from 7am-5pm (Central Time).

IMPROVED “BENEFITS AND RETIREMENT” WEBSITEIn addition to the new toll-free phone number, the website (my.faa.gov/go/boc) was enhanced, becoming a self-service resource. This newly improved “Ben-efits and Retirement” website makes it easier to find and access federal health, life, dental, vision, and other insurance information and services. It also includes additional guidance and answers on the retirement process to assist employees as they prepare for retirement.

NEW CENTRALIZED EMAIL BOXThe BOC also now has a centralized email box to provide an additional communication tool with Benefits Operations members. This email box allows employees to submit inquiries,

requests, and questions anytime. The email can be accessed directly from the Benefits and Retirement website or by using the following email address: 9-ace-faa-bene@faa.gov.

COMPREHENSIVE BOC SERVICES• Retirement: processing,

counseling, and estimates• Health Benefits (FEHB)• Life Insurance (FEGLI)• Long Term Care Insurance

(FLTCIP)• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)• Death Claim Assistance and

Processing• Service Credit and Military

Deposits• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)• Federal Dental and Vision Program

(FEDVIP) ✈

FAA Benefits Operations Center (BOC)

PWC CORPORATE MEMBERS AND SPONSORS• �Air�Traffic�Control� Association�(ATCA)

• AXA�Corporate�Solutions

• �Blue�Cross�Blue�Shield�Association�(BCBS)

• �FAA�Managers�Association,�Inc.�(FAAMA)

• �Federal�Long�Term�Care�Insurance�Program�(FLTCIP)

• �FAA�Gay�Lesbian�Or�Bisexual�Employees�Organization� (FAA�GLOBE)

• �Harris�Corporation�Air�Traffic�Management

• Lockheed�Martin

• �National�Black�Coalition�of�Federal�Aviation�Employees�(NBCFAE)

• �National�Hispanic�Coalition�of�Federal�Aviation�Employees�(NHCFAE)

• �National�Business�Aviation��Association�(NBAA)

• �Robinson�Aviation,�Inc.�(RVA)

• �Sky�One�Federal�Credit�Union

• �Technical�Women’s�Organization�(TWO)

• �Women�in�Aviation�International�(WAI)

It is a pleasure to report FAA recipients of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary’s 47th Annual Awards

were announced on October 16th. Con-gratulations to our past President, Robin Rush! We are so proud of you, Robin!

Congratulations to the 2014 award winners listed below and to all of this year’s award nominees.

EEO/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AWARD AVIATION SAFETY DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION TIGER TEAM• Sadie Alvarado, ACR • Timmy Brown, ACR• Michael Looney, ACR• Daniel Ronneberg, ACR• Humberto Ruiz, AGC• Alexis Martinez, AHR• Roosevelt Lenard, Jr., ATO

• Robin Rush, ATO• Jennifer Arquilla, AVS• Dorenda Baker, AVS• Roxann Brewer, AVS• Leslie Lewis, AVS• Luciano Lucero, AVS• Colleen McKenna, AVS • Janette Ramos, AVS• Suzanne Simmons, AVS• Luanne Wills-Merrell, AVS

DOT SECRETARY’S 47TH ANNUAL AWARDSBy Christine Johnson, PWC Vice President

24 the WATCH winter 2014-15

Presorted Standard

U.S. Postage

PAID

Harrisonburg, VA

Permit No. 78

Professional Women Controllers, Inc. P.O. Box 23924 L’Enfant PlazaWashington, D.C. 20024

Kansas City is a dynamic city backed by a vibrant arts scene, world-class attractions and an eclectic mix of shops. PWC selected the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza for the 37th annual Training Conference.

This luxury hotel is a modern landmark in Kansas City, the City of Fountains. Just steps from the hotel, the Diana and Cherubs fountain greets visitors at historic Country Club Plaza, where Seville-inspired architecture houses exclusive boutique shopping.

This well-appointed luxury hotel is THE choice for business events and is KC’s most popular venue for civic and social galas. Now is the time to start planning your trip to the 2015 PWC National Training Conference in Kansas City.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Navigating the Crossroads PWC’s 2015 National Training ConferenceINTERCONTINENTAL KANSAS CITY AT THE PLAZA | KANSAS CITY, MO | APRIL 26-29, 2015