Top 10 Controller Certifications

Certifications are important for controllers in the job market because they serve as a tangible demonstration of the controller's knowledge and skills. Controllers need to be able to demonstrate their understanding of the intricacies of accounting, finance, and organizational management in order to be successful. Certifications provide employers with an objective measure of a controller's qualifications, enabling them to make informed hiring decisions. Additionally, certifications may give controllers an edge over competition when applying for jobs or negotiating salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Controllers and explain how they can help advance a Controller's career.

What are Controller Certifications?

Controller certification is a process of verifying the qualification and competence of personnel responsible for controlling and supervising the operation of aircraft. It is usually required by regulatory authorities in order to ensure that controllers are adequately trained to carry out their duties safely and effectively.

Controller certification involves assessing the controller's knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience in order to determine their capability to perform the tasks associated with air traffic control. This includes evaluating their understanding of aviation regulations, procedures, safety protocols, navigation systems, communication techniques and any other relevant topics. The assessment also includes a practical evaluation of the controller's ability to use equipment correctly and respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Controller certification can help ensure that controllers are properly qualified to handle the responsibilities they are assigned. By certifying controllers, it ensures that they have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills needed to perform their job safely and effectively. This reduces the risk of accidents or incidents due to lack of training or inexperience on the part of controllers. Additionally, it helps promote consistency across air traffic control facilities by ensuring that all personnel are held to high professional standards regardless of where they work.

Pro Tip: When considering controller certification, make sure to research the requirements and regulations in your area. Many states require controllers to hold a certain level of certification, so it's important to ensure that you meet these standards before pursuing any type of controller job. Additionally, look into any additional training or certifications that may be beneficial for your particular role.

Related: What does a Controller do?

Top 10 Controller Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Controllers today.

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. It is an intermediate-level certification that validates the ability to plan, implement, verify and troubleshoot local and wide area enterprise networks. The CCNP certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in networking technologies, including routing and switching.

To obtain the CCNP certification, you must pass four exams: two core exams and two concentration exams. The core exams cover topics such as routing protocols, network security, infrastructure services and quality of service. The concentration exams focus on specific areas such as data center technologies or wireless LANs.

The cost of the CCNP exam varies depending on the type of exam you take and where you take it. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $300 USD.

It typically takes around six months to complete all four exams for the CCNP certification; however, this can vary depending on your experience level and study habits. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended to take a course from a Cisco Learning Partner or use self-study materials such as books and online resources.

2. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert (JNCIE)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert (JNCIE) is a certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the design, implementation and troubleshooting of Juniper Networks routers, switches and security devices. It is the highest level of certification offered by Juniper Networks.

In order to obtain the JNCIE certification, individuals must pass two exams: JN0-103 (Junos Intermediate Routing) and JN0-347 (Junos Enterprise Routing). The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, a third-party testing company. The cost for each exam is $300 USD.

The time required to complete the JNCIE certification varies depending on an individual's experience and knowledge. Generally speaking, it takes between one and three months to study for both exams and pass them successfully. In addition to studying for the exams, candidates must also have at least 6 months of hands-on experience with Juniper Networks products.

Once an individual has passed both exams, they will be awarded the JNCIE certification which is valid for three years. After three years, individuals must recertify in order to maintain their status as a certified expert.

3. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in networking technology. It is designed to provide a foundation for a career in IT infrastructure, covering topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

It typically takes around 40-60 hours of study to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. It is recommended that you have at least 9-12 months of hands-on experience with networking concepts prior to taking the exam.

The exam itself consists of 90 multiple choice questions which must be completed within 90 minutes. The passing score for the CompTIA Network+ exam is 720 out of 900 points.

You can take the CompTIA Network+ exam at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center worldwide. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it, but generally costs around $300 USD.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure is a certification that validates an individual's ability to design, implement, and manage a cloud infrastructure. The certification covers topics such as virtualization, storage, networks, identity management, security, data platform, messaging, and more.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure exam. To get the certification, you must pass one or more exams related to the Microsoft Azure cloud platform or Windows Server technologies. You can find out which exams are necessary by visiting the Microsoft Learning website.

The cost of taking the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure exam varies depending on your location and whether you take it online or in-person. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 USD per exam. Some training courses may also be required to help you prepare for the exam; these courses can range from free online tutorials to paid instructor-led classes.

5. HPE Master ASE - FlexNetwork Solutions Architect V2

HPE Master ASE - FlexNetwork Solutions Architect V2 is a certification program from Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in designing, deploying, and troubleshooting HPE FlexNetwork solutions. This certification is designed for experienced network architects and engineers who have expertise in HPE networking technologies.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for this certification exam. The preparation process involves studying the official HPE course material, attending instructor-led training, and taking practice exams. The cost of the exam is $250 USD.

To get this certification, you must pass an online proctored exam that consists of 55 multiple-choice questions. You will need to score at least 70% on the exam to earn your certification.

6. Brocade Certified Ethernet Fabric Professional (BCEFP)

Brocade Certified Ethernet Fabric Professional (BCEFP) is a certification program that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, installing, configuring, and managing Brocade Ethernet fabrics. The BCEFP certification program is designed for network professionals who are responsible for the implementation of Brocade Ethernet fabric solutions.

The BCEFP certification requires the successful completion of two exams: Foundation Exam (BEF-CFE) and Advanced Exam (BEF-ACE). The Foundation Exam covers topics such as networking fundamentals, fabric architecture, VCS technology, and troubleshooting. The Advanced Exam focuses on advanced topics such as fabric design principles, automation, and security.

It usually takes about 8 to 10 weeks to complete the entire BCEFP certification process. To get certified, you must first register with the Brocade Certification Program and then purchase the appropriate exam vouchers from a Pearson VUE testing center. After passing both exams successfully, you will receive your official Brocade Certified Ethernet Fabric Professional (BCEFP) certificate in the mail.

The cost of becoming BCEFP certified varies depending on your geographic location but typically ranges from $250 to $400 USD for both exams combined.

7. Extreme Networks Accredited Configuration Engineer (EXACE)

Extreme Networks Accredited Configuration Engineer (EXACE) is an accreditation program designed to help network engineers become expert-level users of Extreme Networks solutions. This certification is designed for individuals with a strong understanding of networking and experience configuring and troubleshooting Extreme Networks products. The EXACE certification covers advanced topics such as Layer 2/3 switching, routing, security, QoS, wireless, and other key technologies.

The EXACE certification requires candidates to pass an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and covers topics such as Layer 2/3 switching, routing protocols, security features, QoS configuration, wireless setup, and more. Candidates must achieve a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the EXACE certification exam is $125 USD per attempt. Candidates can register for the exam online through the Extreme Networks website or by contacting their local Extreme Networks representative. Once registered, candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam platform.

Once certified, EXACE professionals are recognized as experts in configuring and troubleshooting Extreme Networks products and solutions. This certification is valid for three years from the date of completion and can be renewed by taking the same online exam again after three years have passed.

8. F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS)

F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) is a certification program that validates an individual's skills in the implementation and management of F5 solutions. This certification is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to deploy, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain F5 products.

It takes approximately 8-10 hours of study time to complete the F5-CTS certification exam. To get certified, individuals must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as architecture, deployment strategies, product features, configuration tasks, troubleshooting techniques, and more.

The cost for getting certified varies based on the type of exam taken. The cost for the F5-CTS exam is $300 USD per attempt. There may also be additional costs associated with taking practice tests or attending instructor-led training courses prior to taking the exam.

9. Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N)

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are responsible for deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Citrix networking solutions. The certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Citrix NetScaler Gateway, Access Gateway Enterprise Edition, and Citrix Application Firewall.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CCP-N certification process. Candidates must first pass a basic qualifying exam that tests their knowledge of networking fundamentals. After passing this exam, they must then complete two additional exams that focus on specific aspects of Citrix networking solutions.

To get certified as a CCP-N, candidates must register for the exams through the Citrix website. Each exam costs $200 USD and must be taken at an authorized testing center. Once all three exams have been passed successfully, candidates will receive their official CCP-N certification from Citrix.

10. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in deploying, configuring, administering and troubleshooting VMware NSX virtual networks. It is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for the design, implementation and management of VMware NSX environments.

It takes approximately three months to prepare for the VCP6-NV exam. To get certified, individuals must first complete a VMware authorized training course on NSX or have at least six months of experience working with the product. After completing the required training or gaining the necessary experience, applicants must pass two exams: a Foundation Exam and a Professional Exam. The Foundation Exam tests basic knowledge while the Professional Exam focuses on more advanced topics such as network virtualization design and troubleshooting.

The cost of the VCP6-NV certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 to take both exams, plus any additional fees associated with taking them at a testing center or online.

Do You Really Need a Controller Certificate?

The answer to whether or not you need a Controller Certificate depends on the type of job that you are looking for. If you are looking for a position as an air traffic controller, then yes, you will need to obtain a controller certificate in order to be considered for the job. This certificate is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is required in order to practice as an air traffic controller in the United States. The certification process involves taking courses, passing exams, and completing an apprenticeship program.

However, if you are looking for other types of jobs that do not involve controlling aircrafts, such as a data analyst or software engineer, then no, you do not need a controller certificate. In these cases, employers usually require some sort of college degree or certifications related to the specific field that they are hiring for.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Controller Certificate depends on what type of job you are applying for. If it involves controlling aircrafts in any way, then yes, obtaining your FAA-issued Controller Certificate is necessary in order to be considered for the job. However if your desired job does not involve controlling aircrafts then no, there is no need to obtain this certification.

Related: Controller Resume Examples

FAQs About Controller Certifications

1. What are the requirements for becoming a certified controller?

Answer: The requirements for becoming a certified controller vary by jurisdiction, but typically include passing an exam and completing a certain number of hours of on-the-job training or professional experience in the field.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a controller?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified as a controller varies depending on the individual’s experience level and the jurisdiction they are seeking certification in. Generally, individuals should expect to spend several months studying and preparing before taking their exam.

3. Are there continuing education requirements for controllers?

Answer: Yes, many jurisdictions require controllers to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certifications. This is typically done through online courses or attending conferences or seminars related to the field of financial control and management.

4. What type of salary can I expect as a certified controller?

Answer: Salaries for controllers vary greatly depending on experience and location, but according to PayScale, the average annual salary for a Certified Controller is $106,939 per year in the United States as of April 2021.

5. Is there any difference between being a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and being a Certified Controller?

Answer: Yes, there is a difference between being a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and being a Certified Controller. A CPA specializes in accounting principles such as taxation and auditing while a Certified Controller focuses more on financial planning and forecasting, budgeting, cash flow management and other areas that involve financial control and management.