Your Air Traffic Control Journey Starts Here
REAL EXPERIENCE. REAL GUIDANCE. SIDE BY SIDE WITH YOU.
Whether you're dreaming about a career in ATC, studying at a CTI school, or already at the FAA Academy — Side by Side ATC is here to help you feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
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Welcome to Side by Side ATC
I'm Tom Hanes — a 26-year FAA veteran, former Academy instructor, and host of the Side by Side ATC podcast. I created this community because I know how challenging and isolating the path to becoming an air traffic controller can be.
After spending over two decades in the FAA — both as a working controller and as an A-Lead and Lead instructor at the FAA Academy — I saw firsthand how many talented, hardworking people struggled. Not because they weren't smart enough, but because they lacked the right guidance, strategies, and support.
That's why I started Side by Side ATC. Through my podcast, 1-on-1 coaching programs, and free resources, I help aspiring controllers at every stage — from those just exploring the career to students navigating the pressure of the FAA Academy.
My mission is simple: help you feel more self-assured about what you're going through — and what's ahead.
Who I Help
No matter where you are on your ATC journey, Side by Side ATC has something for you.
Aspiring Controllers
Curious about air traffic control as a career? Learn what the path really looks like, what to expect, and how to prepare before you even apply.
CTI School Students
Get insights and strategies that go beyond the classroom. Understand what the FAA will demand and start building the right habits now.
FAA Academy Students
Already at the Academy and feeling the pressure? My coaching programs and podcast episodes are designed to help you perform at your best when it matters most.
What Side by Side ATC Offers
Resources and support designed for every stage of your ATC journey.
🎙️ The Podcast
The Side by Side ATC podcast has been running for over 15 months with 6,000+ total downloads and a growing community of 150+ followers.
Each episode covers real topics that matter to aspiring and current ATC students — from Academy life and study strategies to mindset, career insights, and honest conversations about the challenges ahead.
🎯 1-on-1 Coaching
Personalized coaching programs designed to help you perform at your best — whether you're preparing for the Academy or already in the thick of it.
- Non-Radar, Radar, and Complete Lab Coaching Programs
- Performance breakdown analysis
- Study system rebuilding
- Confidence & stress management
What People Are Saying
"Tom's podcast gave me the confidence to actually pursue ATC as a career. Hearing real stories from someone who's been there made all the difference. I felt like I finally had someone in my corner."
— Podcast Listener
"I was struggling at the Academy and didn't know where to turn. Tom's coaching helped me rebuild my study approach and manage the stress. I went from barely passing to feeling in control."
— Academy Student
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're just starting to explore air traffic control or you're deep into Academy training, I'm here to help you navigate the journey with more clarity and confidence.
You've got this. Let's work through it — side by side.