ZJX Training Policy and Guidelines

Table of Updates

Date	Revision	Items Revised
25 February 2023	A	Solo Endorsement duration and extension
5 March 2023	B	Update to Completed OTS/Checkout Rules
11 March 2023	C	Update to the ZJX General SOP Course Rules
15 March 2023	D	Update to the GRP Attendance Policy
22 May 2023	E	Update Visiting/Transferring Controllers Major Endorsement Training
21 June 2023	F	Update Visiting/Transferring controllers processes for GRP Completion
8 July 2023	G	Update Visiting/Transferring controllers processes for certification.
28 August 2023	H	Students are now required to contact the trainer via discord upon receiving an assignment. Assignment email will be sent to the email on file.

Area Information

Purpose:

This document prescribes the training policies and guidelines for use by ARTCC personnel providing or receiving training at the Virtual Jacksonville ARTCC. Facility personnel are required to be familiar with the provisions of this document and to exercise best judgment if they encounter situations that are not covered by it.

Distribution:

This order is distributed to all Jacksonville ARTCC personnel.

General Information

Syllabus:

The Jacksonville ARTCC Training Program shall follow the approved ZJX Training syllabus that outlines competencies and content needed for each rating, certification, and validation.

Standard Training Requirements

Training Sessions shall be scheduled at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance using the mentor/instructors provided link in setmore.

Students are required to complete two (2) training sessions per calendar Month.

Students shall only book one (1) training session at a time with a trainer.

Students shall not, to the best of their ability, cancel a training session within twenty-four (24) hours of their scheduled session.

Students shall come prepared to each training sessions with questions after reviewing relevant assignments, policies, and documents.

Students shall complete all assignments prior to attending their training Schedule.

Students shall contact their trainer within 7 days of being assigned via Discord. An email will be sent to the student upon assignment of their trainer via the email that is on file. Failure to contact will result in the removal of the training slot.

Students shall book the first training session within 7 days of being assigned a trainer. Failure to book will result in the removal of the training slot. Some exceptions apply.

ZJX General SOP Course

(Update C) The ZJX General SOP Course is found in the VATUSA Academy. It is required to be completed by all home and visiting controllers, within 30 days of being accepted into the ARTCC. All members hired before 3/11/2023 are not required to complete the course unless they are in need of training, then they are required to complete the course. Failure to complete within 30 days of acceptance into the ARTCC will result in removal from the ARTCC.

Corrective Action

No Show/Cancellation within 24 hours:

1. First Offense: Written Warning from the Training Administrator or their assistant.
2. Second Offense: Removal from training slot.
3. Third Offense: Removal of training slot and restricted from submitting a training request without the Training Administrator or their assistants' approval.

Failure to meet required number of training sessions:

1. Observers: Removal from training roster and ZJX Active Roster.
2. S1-C1: Removal from training roster

Failure to meet training expectations/un-prepared for training:

1. First Offense: Cancellation of session and written warning from A/TA.
2. Second Offense: Removal from training slot and restricted from submitting a training request without the A/TA approval.

Unacceptable conduct during training:

1. Discontinuation of training referral to the TA for administrative actions to include:
   1. Change of Trainer
   2. Restriction from training for no more than 30 days.
   3. Removal from training program indefinitely and referral to the VATUSA staff.

Training Information

OBS to S1S1 to S2S2 to S3S3 to C1Major GroundMajor TowerF11 TRACONMentor In TrainingInstructor

Requirements

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC home controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox

Training Fields The Following Fields will used to train:

• Hilton Head, SC (KHXD)
• Savannah, GA (KSAV)
• Sanford Orlando, FL (KSFB)
• Jacksonville, FL (KJAX)

Note: Other minor fields can be used for training to facilitate proper usage of the general procedures or specific competencies.

Requirements

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC home controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete the VATUSA Academy Assigned Rating Course. (To request this course, please open a ticket in discord)
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• For Transfering Controllers: Complete the GRP checkout for S1.

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox or live network.

Training Fields The Following Fields will used to train:

• Hilton Head, SC (KHXD)
• Savannah, GA (KSAV)
• Sanford Orlando, FL (KSFB)
• Jacksonville, FL (KJAX)

Note: Other minor fields can be used for training to facilitate proper usage of the general procedures or specific competencies.

Requirements

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC home controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete the VATUSA Academy Assigned Rating Course. (To request this course, please open a ticket in discord)
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• For Transfering Controllers: Complete the GRP checkout for S1 and S2.

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox or live network

Training Fields The Following Fields will used to train:

• Hilton Head, SC (KHXD)
• Savannah, GA (KSAV)
• Sanford Orlando, FL (KSFB)
• Jacksonville, FL (KJAX)

Note: Other minor fields can be used for training to facilitate proper usage of the general procedures or specific competencies.

Requirements

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC home controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete the VATUSA Academy Assigned Rating Course. (To request this course, please open a ticket in discord)
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• Receive all Major Endorsement
• For Transfering Controllers: Complete the GRP checkout for S1, S2, and S3.

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the live network

Requirements
Home Controllers

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC controller.
• Be an S1 Controller with ZJX Minor Ground Endorsements
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.

Visiting/Transfering Controller

• Complete all GRP requirements for the controller's current rating and have received all endorsements.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• Controlled within the ZJX ARTCC airspace for fifteen (15) hours since acceptance into the ARTCC at the highest position rated. Example: S1 must complete 15 hours of ground control.
• Be an S1 or higher Controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.

Note: For all S3 and higher visiting Controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your initial (first) request for major endorsement will be accelerated. S3s and higher controllers shall request Major Tower Training. Further requests for major training shall require the same requirements as a home controller.
For all S3 and higher transferring controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your initial (first) request for major endorsement will be accelerated. You shall request Major Tower Training. Further requests for major training shall require the same requirements as a home controller.
Training Fields
The Following Field will used to train:

• Orlando, FL (KMCO)

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Upon completion of practical training, the student may be assigned a solo endorsement.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox or live network

Requirements
Home Controllers

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC controller.
• Be an S2 or higher controller with ZJX Minor Tower Endorsements and Major Ground Endorsement
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.

Visiting/Transfering Controller

• Complete all GRP requirements for the controller's current rating and have received all endorsements.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• Controlled within the ZJX ARTCC airspace for fifteen (15) hours since acceptance into the ARTCC at the highest position rated. Example: S1 must complete 15 hours of ground control.
• Be an S2 or higher Controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.

Note: For all S3 and higher visiting Controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your initial (first) request for major endorsement will be accelerated. S3s and higher controllers shall request Major Tower Training. Further requests for major training shall require the same requirements as a home controller.
For all S3 and higher transferring controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your initial (first) request for major endorsement will be accelerated. You shall request Major Tower Training. Further requests for major training shall require the same requirements as a home controller.
Training Fields
The Following Field will used to train:

• Orlando, FL (KMCO)

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Upon completion of practical training, the student may be assigned a solo endorsement.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox or live network

Requirements
Home Controllers

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC controller.
• Be an S3 or higher controller with ZJX Minor TRACON Endorsements and Major Tower Endorsement
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.

Visiting/Transfering Controller

• Complete all GRP requirements for the controller's current rating and have received all endorsements.
• Complete 30 hours of controlling at the highest position rated at any ARTCC within VATUSA. Example: S1 must complete 30 hours of ground control.
• Controlled within the ZJX ARTCC airspace for fifteen (15) hours since acceptance into the ARTCC at the highest position rated. Example: S1 must complete 15 hours of ground control.
• Be an S3 or higher Controller.
• Complete the ZJX SOP Course.

Note: For all C1 and higher visiting Controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your request for major endorsement will be accelerated. C1's shall request Major Tower training.
For all C1 and higher transferring controllers: Upon completion of the GRP and controlling for 15 hours, your request for major endorsement will be accelerated. C1's shall request Major tower training.
Training Fields The Following Field will used to train:

• Central Florida TRACON (F11)

Training Flow

• Request Training via the "My Profile/Training" Page
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training
• Upon completion of practical training, the student may be assigned a solo endorsement.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Checkout Exams which will include a theory exam via the VATUSA Academy or the ZJX Training Website and a practical checkout done via the sweatbox or live network

Requirements
Home Controllers

• Be an active ZJX ARTCC controller.
• Must hold a rating of at least S2 with a major endorsement
• No disciplinary actions taken within the last two (2) years by any VATUSA ARTCC or VATSIM.

Training Flow

• Submit a formal request to become a mentor to training@zjxartcc.org with the following information: Name and CID, Reason for wanting to be a mentor, Real World training experience, VATSIM training experience (if any)
• A Trainer will be assigned to you when one is available. Do not submit multiple requests for training. If multiple requests are received all training requests will be removed except the most recent one.
• Complete ZJX ARTCC Training

MIT Training Program
Lasting a period no longer than 90 days.
Note: Entry into the Mentor-in-Training Program does not guarantee a Mentor position nor is considered as part of the Training Staff.

Training to be completed:
i. Meeting with trainer to install required software: TWR Trainer, ESKEY (Only if the Mentor is instructing S3 rating or above.), Euroscope 3.1D (Only if the Mentor is instructing S3 rating or above.)
ii. Shadow/Observe three (3) sessions with an assigned trainer. The trainer shall be teaching a course that the MIT will eventually teach. This time includes any necessary preparation the trainer conducts.
iii. Conducts at least 6 training sessions. The trainer shall observe and review the individual’s performance and constructive feedback on improvement. Training records shall be submitted for these sessions for the observation of the MIT.
iv. Any and all training requirements may be suspended or amended with the approval of the Training Administrator, Deputy Air Traffic Manager, and Air Traffic Manager. This shall be noted in the mentor in training ZJX training record.

Upon successful completion of the Mentor In Training Program, the MIT shall be reviewed by the Training Administrator, Deputy Air Traffic Manager and Air Traffic Manager for full Mentor status consideration.

The Mentor in Training may be terminated from the program at the discretion of the Training Administrator if they are placed under any VATSIM/VATUSA/ZJX Disciplinary Policies.

All training requirements of a probationary instructor are assigned by VATUSA.

Visiting/Transfering Controller Requirements

NOTE: A GRP check may be performed upon observation or report of GRP deficiencies on the live network.

Persons transferring to and/or visiting ZJX from within VATUSA (excluding ZAE) will typically retain minor certifications in accordance with their rating. All visitor/transfers may be required to undergo a competency check prior to receiving certifications.

Exceptions to these guidelines are at the discretion of the Jacksonville ARTCC Senior Staff (TA/DATM/ATM). ZJX reserves the right to require a practical examination (GRP competency check) prior to certifying transferring/visiting controllers on position(s).

• ZJX SOP Course
• Knowledge
  S1 Students
  Request via discord ticket and complete the ZJX ARTCC Minor/Ground Exam
  Upon completion, the student will inform the training team via discord ticket to update minor certification.
  S2 Students
  Request via discord ticket and complete the ZJX ARTCC Minor/Ground Exam and the ZJX ARTCC Minor Tower Exam.
  Upon completion, the student will inform the training team via discord ticket to update minor certification.
  S3 and above students
  Request via discord ticket and complete the ZJX ARTCC Minor/Ground Exam, ZJX ARTCC Minor Tower Exam, and the ZJX ARTCC Minor Approach Exam.
  Upon completion, the student will inform the training team via discord ticket to update minor certification.
  

If any of the above items are failed upon the first try, all visiting request will be rescinded and a note will be placed in the controller's vatusa record of the failure. All transferring controllers will be referred for remedial training. Failure to attend your GRP is considered a failure.

Solo Endorsements

Solo Endorsements are restricted during the following times:
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between 2300z-0300z when the following ARTCCs have announced events: Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Washington, Jacksonville.
Permission must be granted by the Event Coordinator and the Training Administrator prior to signing up for an event using your solo endorsement. A mentor/instructor is required to observe the session. This requirement can be waived at the discretion of the TA with EC approval.
Solo Endorsements are only issued for a period of thirty (30) days and could be extended with TA's permission.
S3 and C1 Rating Solo Endorsements must be posted on the VATUSA website by an instructor or the training administrator, and the ZJX Website.
S2 and Major airport solo endorsements can be posted by either a mentor or instructor on the ZJX website.

Trainer Appointment Procedures

Requirements
Mentor
Must be a ZJX controller (Home or Visiting).
Must hold a rating of at least S2 with a ZJX major endorsement.
No disciplinary actions taken within the last two (2) years by any VATUSA ARTCC or VATSIM.

Instructor
Must be a home controller.
ZJX Mentor for a minimum ninety (90) days and have completed a full course of training sessions with students for S1, S2 and S3.
Must hold a rating of at C1 for ninety (90) days with all major endorsements.
Written (Email) recommendation from the following: Training Administrator and Air Traffic Manager
No disciplinary actions taken within the last two (2) years by any VATUSA ARTCC or VATSIM.
Approval from the VATUSA training staff.

Checkout/OTS

Unsuccessful completed OTS/Checkout
First Failure will result in remedial training from the assigned Instructor/Mentor.
Second failure will result in remedial training from a different Instructor/Mentor.
Third failure will result in removal from the Training Program.

The student can re-apply for training after a 30 day cool down period.

GRP Checks

A GRP check may be performed upon observation or report of GRP deficiencies on the live network. GRP checks results will be reported to VATUSA and if visiting, the visiting home ARTCC.
GRP Check standards will be the same standards as required for rating. GRP testing airport will be any of the training airports within the ZJX ARTCC Airspace.

Questions?

How Do I Request Training?

Training is requested by visiting the ZJX ARTCC website at zjxartcc.org and clicking on the Profile/Information Tab. Under the drop down select "My Profile/Training".

Under the Training Information Header you will find a button that states "Request Training". If you have completed the Standard Operating Procedure Course found in the VATUSA Academy this tab should say "Request Training". If it does not and you have completed the Standard Operating Procedure course, please open a ticket for review in our Discord.

How Do I Know if I am Eligible for Training?

Under the training information header of your profile page it will state what training you are eligible for. Remember: You can ONLY do one training at a time.

When will I know if I am assigned a trainer?

You will receive a email or discord message when you have been assigned. Please ensure that you have setup your controller client and understand its operations prior to your first session with your instructor.