Satcom Direct (SD) bolsters IT training for business aviation sector

In response to the growing demand for more qualified IT experts in the business aviation sector, Satcom Direct (SD), the business aviation solutions provider, is strengthening its industry-focused training program. The second edition of aeroIT, SD's aviation IT certification, is now available with renewed content and an exam updated to reflect the changes; SD's training programs have been added to the curricula offered at both FlightSafety International (FSI) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; and the number of SD digital self-learning courses has grown.

Revisions to the aeroIT course place more focus on cybersecurity, the latest communications systems and information technology advancements to ensure aviation IT professionals' knowledge is current with the most recent developments. The revised exam, designed to test candidates' understanding of developing connectivity technologies, will enable existing aeroIT certificate holders to renew their existing qualification.

The updated aeroIT course now forms part of FlightSafety International's new Cabin Master Technician program. 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 program began studies this fall. The supporting SD aeroIT study book, newly reprinted in its second edition is a required text for Embry-Riddle students. Students completing the courses 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 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 Melbourne, FL facility and FlightSafety International delivers the aeroIT renewal course in Savannah, the Dallas North Learning Center and the recently added, Long Beach location. The dedicated aeroCNCT course, created to support industry professionals that work with, or are responsible for, connectivity during flight is also offered at the Savannah facility.

In addition to making updates to the aeroIT and CyberSAFE courses, the new self-paced courses cover a range of topics with datalink, air-to-ground, 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. We are excited to provide enhanced access to our materials via the highly respected FlightSafety International, 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 program 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," says Jason Rigby, Director of Training for SD. "The latest additions and updates, along with our growing network of educational partners, firmly positions SD's training modules at the core of business aviation IT training."

Since launch three years ago more than 700 candidates have completed the aeroIT course. In 2018 alone, 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 maximized the opportunity to renew their certificates.