Technological advancements in emerging technologies, along with generational change in today’s National Airspace System (NAS) workforce, require new approaches to training that harnesses fresh thoughts on how to best prepare students for success in both the classroom and the field. The FAA Academy is embracing this evolution by integrating cutting-edge ideas and modern adult learning concepts to elevate the FAA’s training programs. As the premier training institution for the FAA, the Academy is uniquely positioned to form new partnerships and lay the groundwork for optimizing human performance in an era where extended reality (XR) technology is becoming increasingly important. This is particularly relevant as a new generation of talent, raised in a world dominated by hand-held devices enters the FAA workforce. The future is bright, and the FAA Academy is at the forefront, driving positive change and setting a high standard for the industry’s evolution!
The FAA Academy recognized the need for research to understand the impact of emerging technology on training practices. As such, the Academy collaborated with the University of Oklahoma, spanning four semesters from 2022 to 2023. The study revealed significant changes approaching the FAA, leading to the establishment of the Future Learning Experience (FLEX) Team. FLEX is a highly skilled, deeply integrated team of engineers, human factors experts, software programmers, and industry liaisons dedicated to revolutionizing training methodologies and enhancing student engagement by understanding the cultural norms and expectations of Generation Z and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize the learning experience.
The FLEX Team initially partnered with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to successfully pilot a proof of concept in which a segment of a conventional, instructor-led course was transformed into a fully immersive virtual reality (VR) experience. This initiative not only underscored the Academy’s internal capabilities, but also ignited interest in integrating such technology into training practices. CBP stated, "It was exciting and beneficial for Customs and Border Protection to partner with [the Academy] AMA-20, exploring ways to enhance training efficiency and impacts using the latest virtual reality technology."
As the FLEX team developed internal capabilities and demonstrated them to stakeholders, they also reached out to major aerospace corporations, leading university research programs, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). These outreach efforts revealed that most organizations are beginning to work with or have established training programs utilizing XR technologies. However, these efforts are often isolated, and agencies like NASA are working to facilitate communication and collaboration within the aerospace industry.
Additionally, outreach discussions highlighted the difficulty of attracting and retaining top talent for extended periods. There is a growing focus on utilizing XR technology, not only to improve training for new employees, but also to devise new and engaging ways to retain talent.
The FLEX Team has taken the lessons learned over the past three years and is now applying them to address the challenges that are currently facing the FAA training pipeline. The FLEX Team has embarked on an ambitious air traffic tower simulation project. The goal is to use immersive technology to improve retention rates and facilitate stronger knowledge transfer throughout the training process, ultimately improving student performance. Importantly, the FLEX Team’s in-house development model ensures organic support and buy-in, reduces overall costs and risks, and allows for streamlined modifications and enhancements. The integrated FLEX Team is a paradigm shift on how to save money while increasing responsiveness and utilizing the skills of our federal workforce. By harnessing the power of VR technology, the FLEX Team is not only shaping the future of aviation training but is also propelling the industry toward greater efficiency, safety, and excellence!
