Satcom Direct (SD) has launched the second edition of its aeroIT aviation IT certification, featuring renewed content and an updated exam. The company’s training programmes are now available at both FlightSafety International (FSI) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and SD has expanded its range of digital self-learning courses.
Revisions to the aeroIT course place more focus on cybersecurity, the latest communications systems and IT advancements. The revised exam – designed to test understanding of developing connectivity technologies – will enable aeroIT certificate holders to renew their existing qualification.
The updated aeroIT course forms part of FSI’s new Cabin Master Technician programme. Embry-Riddle has also approved the inclusion of aeroIT as part of its new bachelor’s degree, Aviation Maintenance Science, with an area of concentration in cybertechnology, avionics and security. The first group of students taking the programme began studies this Autumn. The supporting SD aeroIT study book, newly reprinted in its second edition, is a required text for Embry-Riddle students. Students can take their exam on campus or via the digital Questionmark platform, which SD administers.
The aeroIT course is also available through SD’s recently enhanced Learning Management System (LMS), which provides computer-based training with videos and digital material. Students can fit studying into their work schedule and complete the course at their own pace. For candidates preferring an immersive instructor-led experience, SD offers aeroIT training at its facility in Melbourne, Florida, and FSI delivers the aeroIT renewal course in Savannah, Georgia, its Dallas North Learning Center in Texas, and in Long Beach, California. The aeroCNCT course – created to support industry professionals that work with, or are responsible for, connectivity during flight – is also offered at the Savannah facility.
The new self-paced courses cover a range of topics, with datalink, air-to-ground and satellite modules featured, as well as courses related to SD products and services, including the SD Pro operating system.
“Our approach is holistic, so our network partners are incredibly important to us,” said Jason Rigby, director of training for SD. “We are excited to provide enhanced access to our materials via the highly respected FSI, Embry-Riddle establishments and our improved LMS. We know that an always-on generation expects connectivity to perform all the time and this drives our continuous educational development programme so we can support our customers, so they can support their passengers, crew and employees. As aviators ourselves we understand that reliable, professional training is essential for sector development.”
Since launch three years ago, more than 700 candidates have completed the aeroIT course. In 2018, 205 candidates achieved an 86% pass rate of the accredited exam for aeroIT, and 74 students completed the aeroCNCT test with 85% passing. A further 16 customers have already renewed their certificates.
For 2020, SD plans to add more courses and will be updating aeroCNCT to provide ongoing support for cabin crew and flight technicians.
