Firms ink agreement to add world's first IT certification course for aviation professionals to FlightSafety training offerings.

In an expansion of their existing partnership, FlightSafety International now will offer Satcom Direct's AeroIT certification preparation course. AeroIT is the world's first information technology certification for aviation and equips aircraft technicians, maintenance, IT personnel and crew with vital knowledge of today's sophisticated airborne communications systems.

"In-flight connectivity has become one of the most vital functions on the aircraft. We created AeroIT to equip aviation professionals with the IT-based knowledge they need to support these onboard networks and enable the 'office in the sky.' Our partnership with FlightSafety gives additional personnel easy access to this important training," said Jim Jensen, founder and CEO of Satcom Direct (SD). "FlightSafety's endorsement of AeroIT shows that we're aligned in addressing this critical skills deficit in today's flight departments."

The AeroIT prep course and certification exam equip flight departments with the knowledge to configure and troubleshoot onboard networks and SATCOM systems, which both enhances technicians' professional development and supports their organizations' missions. The certification exam is offered at any Pearson VUE test center, worldwide and is being expanded for availability onsite at SD's World Headquarters. The AeroIT credential is valid for three years and then must be renewed. Additional levels of certification are in development to validate different levels of mastery.

In collaboration with SD, FlightSafety offers the TTTCabin Communications and Cabin Management courses in Savannah, GA and Teterboro, NJ for both maintenance technicians and flight crews. AeroIT initially will be offered in Savannah and includes an option for future expansion into other FlightSafety training centers. AeroIT ultimately will be incorporated into FlightSafety's Avionics and Cabin Master Technician programs. SD will continue to offer AeroIT training at its offices across the globe.

"FlightSafety is pleased with our growing partnership with Satcom Direct. Aero IT gives us a complete cabin connectivity training solution for our customers," said Charlie Harvich, Manager FlightSafety Savannah Maintenance Training Center.

Flight Safety will begin offering AeroIT training, at its Savannah center, in September. FlightSafety customers can use their event-based training package toward the AeroIT course and should consult with FlightSafety for the training schedule.

Contributed by Satcom Direct