Melissa Rhodes
DeLand
Summary
With 29 years of experience as an Air Traffic Controller, I’ve had the privilege of managing some of the most complex and high-stakes air traffic operations across both military and civilian sectors. From overseeing daily operations at Kansas City Center to providing air traffic control at Patrick AFB and Prince Sultan AB, I've worked with a wide range of aircraft—from Skyhawks and airliners to fighter jets and even Air Force One. My expertise spans high-volume en-route traffic coordination, handling everything from routine flights to critical training exercises, always ensuring safety and efficiency. I pride myself on my ability to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflicts swiftly, and collaborate seamlessly with both military and civilian teams. Over the years, I’ve also mentored and trained countless junior controllers, passing on my knowledge and passion for aviation safety.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Air Traffic Control Specialist
Federal Aviation Administration
10.2005 - 05.2025
- Resolved airspace conflicts swiftly and effectively, utilizing strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure.
- Enhanced air traffic efficiency by managing aircraft movements, controlling arrivals, departures, and transitions across airfields and flight lines.
- Trained and mentored new air traffic controllers, providing hands-on instruction in radar, tower, and ground control procedures.
- Coordinated with neighboring facilities and emergency response teams to ensure seamless airspace transitions and readiness during emergencies.
- Provided weather updates to pilots, enabling informed decisions on flight paths and safety precautions.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of aviation regulations and ensured compliance with federal guidelines in all air traffic operations.
Air Traffic Control Specialist
Federal Aviation Administration
05.2000 - 10.2005
- Managed high-altitude, en-route air traffic across a vast multi-state region, ensuring safe and efficient flight routing.
- Coordinated seamless handoffs and traffic flow between sectors and neighboring centers for long-haul and regional flights.
- Resolved airspace conflicts quickly, optimizing flight paths and maintaining safety in a large, expanding airspace.
- Provided real-time weather and airspace updates to pilots for informed decision-making on long-distance routes.
Air Traffic Controller
U.S. Air Force Active Duty
12.1995 - 12.1999
- Managed air traffic operations at Patrick AFB and Prince Sultan AB, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of military and civilian aircraft within controlled airspace.
- Coordinated arrivals, departures, and in-flight transitions for military aircraft, adhering to military-specific procedures and safety protocols.
- Provided air traffic control support during large-scale training exercises, managing complex air traffic flow and ensuring safety during high-volume operations.
- Collaborated with military and civilian controllers to integrate military air traffic into civilian airspace, especially during joint exercises and international operations.
- Directed air traffic during peak periods, efficiently handling multiple aircraft movements while maintaining strict safety and operational standards.
Education
Community College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, NVBrevard Community College
Melbourne, FLSkills
- Conflict resolution
- Traffic coordination
- Decision making
- Team collaboration
- Communication skills
- Air traffic regulations
Timeline
Air Traffic Control Specialist
Federal Aviation Administration
10.2005 - 05.2025
Air Traffic Control Specialist
Federal Aviation Administration
05.2000 - 10.2005
Air Traffic Controller
U.S. Air Force Active Duty
12.1995 - 12.1999
Community College of Southern Nevada
Brevard Community College
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