Alissa Patterson
Summary
Detail-oriented Air Traffic Control Specialist with experience managing IFR/VFR operations in tower-only military airspace. Experienced in high-tempo flight operations, emergency response coordination, and radar-based aircraft separation.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Connections Director
Summit Church Alaska
North Pole, AK
09.2025 - 05.2026
- Coordinated volunteer recruitment and training initiatives to support church activities.
- Assisted in planning and executing church events, improving attendance and participation.
- Supported fundraising efforts through event organization and donor engagement strategies.
Air Traffic Control Specialist
United States Air Force, USAF
Eielson Air Force Base, AK
08.2022 - 07.2025
- Directed safe and efficient movement of 40+ aircraft per shift in controlled Class D airspace with zero operational discrepancies.
- Utilized STARS system to manage IFR/VFR traffic flow in dynamic military airspace environments.
- Logged 540 hours of on-the-job training for 6 individuals, resulting in each individual achieving their 5 level.
- Managed small general aviation planes, fighter jets such as the F-16, F-35, F-15, A-10, to large commercial airliners, and tankers like the KC-135, C-17, and C-5.
- Participated in regular multi-fighter jet training exercises to maintain proficiency; Red Flag Alaska, Northern Edge, Arctic Gold, and Distant Frontier.
- Selected to serve as an air traffic liaison during an overseas military exercise, coordinating operational communication between host-nation and U.S. air traffic personnel.
- Led 4 controllers through an F-15 hydraulic emergency, utilizing checklists and maintaining effective communication between all relevant parties.
- Provided emergency landing support within a live fire range, coordinating with 3 agencies expediting the recovery of 2 pilots and a $40M rotary aircraft.
- Ensured FAA compliance by reviewing 78 crew members Individual Training Records, correcting 57 discrepancies.
- Managed AFAS, leading a 4 man team through 67 software upgrades.
Barista
Dunkin' Donuts
Centerville, OH
01.2021 - 06.2021
- Prepared and served high-quality beverages in fast-paced environment.
- Ensured cleanliness and organization of workstations, adhering to health and safety standards.
- Assisted in training new team members on beverage preparation and customer service protocols.
Customer Service Representative
Kroger
Cincinnati, OH
08.2020 - 12.2020
- Resolved customer inquiries and issues efficiently, ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
- Trained new team members on company policies and customer service protocols.
- Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
Cashier
Kroger
Cincinnati, OH
06.2019 - 08.2020
- Processed customer transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Implemented streamlined checkout procedures, reducing wait times for customers.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
Education
Associate of Arts - Air Traffic Control Management
American Military University
09.2026
Airman Leadership School -
Air University
Montgomery, AL12.2024
High School Diploma -
West Clermont High School
Batavia, OH05.2021
Skills
- Tower Operations
- FAA JO 711065 Familiarity
- Airfield Operating Procedures
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Fighter Aircraft Operations
- Tanker and Heavy Aircraft Sequencing
- Multinational Operations Support
- Military Airspace Management
- Airspace Conflict Resolution
Accomplishments
- Awarded the Commandant's Award at Airman Leadership School in recognition of outstanding academic performance, leadership, and professional excellence.
- Awarded Stripes for Exceptional Performers; a promotion to Staff Sergeant (E-5) for exceptional job performance, leadership, and demonstrated potential without requiring the standard testing process.
- Earned Below-the-Zone promotion to Senior Airman (E-4) after being ranked first among 10 eligible candidates for performance, leadership, and mission contribution.
- Hand selected to attend a 40 hour Airfield Automations course, resulting in 1 of 4 Air Traffic Control experts in the AFAS system.
- Completed Tower certification in 112 days, finishing 88 days ahead of the standard qualification timeline while successfully completing 279 required training tasks.
Certification
- Air Traffic Control Trainer Course - Nov 2022
- Air Traffic Control Specialist CTO - Aug 2022 - Aug 2025
Timeline
Connections Director
Summit Church Alaska
09.2025 - 05.2026
Air Traffic Control Specialist
United States Air Force, USAF
08.2022 - 07.2025
Barista
Dunkin' Donuts
01.2021 - 06.2021
Customer Service Representative
Kroger
08.2020 - 12.2020
Cashier
Kroger
06.2019 - 08.2020
Associate of Arts - Air Traffic Control Management
American Military University
Airman Leadership School -
Air University
High School Diploma -
West Clermont High School