Meet Your Instructors
Amanda Staniec
Former Air Traffic Controller with nearly a decade of experience at Oakland Center (ZOA). Beginning her FAA career as an off-the-street hire with no prior aviation background, Amanda developed firsthand insight into the hiring process, academy demands, and the skills required to succeed in training and on the floor. During her career, she served as a training representative for her area, leading simulator sessions, mentoring new developmental controllers, and preparing academy graduates for certification in a live operational environment. With a degree in education, Amanda combines real-world ATC experience with proven instructional ability, specializing in breaking down complex procedures into clear, practical lessons that help future controllers build confidence, improve performance, and prepare for success at every stage of the process.
Ronnie Williams
Ronnie is a former air traffic controller with over 32 years of experience in the En Route and Terminal environment. Having controlled at Indianapolis Center, ZID, Jacksonville Center, ZJX and Oakland Center, ZOA for the bulk of his career, Ronnie also controlled at Honolulu Air Traffic Control Tower and Approach Control. This wide range of experience led to post retirement work as an Air Traffic Control Instructor at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and as a Filed Air Traffic Control Instructor at Oakland Center, ZOA. Ronnie has been providing Academy and Field instruction for almost 10 years. His wide-ranging experience in Air Traffic Control has given him the insight and understanding of the ATC system and all of its diversity. With an FAA career of instructing and post-retirement contract instructing allows Ronnie to teach at the very highest level for his students.
Andrew Kim
Air Traffic Controller with experience in an En Route facility since 2017, combining operational control expertise with a strong specialization in air traffic controller training and development. Currently contributing within the training department, supporting the progression of over 80 trainees through structured instruction, lab facilitation, and performance-based evaluations. Deep expertise in controller training processes, including national and facility training orders, stage-based progression, and performance standards. Proven ability to design and implement targeted training scenarios that enhance decision-making, situational awareness, and operational proficiency in simulated environments. Skilled in maintaining and administering training systems, assessments, and lab operations to ensure alignment with operational requirements. Brings a strong foundation in training administration, instructional delivery, and program structure, effectively bridging real-world operations with training execution.