A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association
Issue link: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/681801
Patricia C. Gilbert Executive Vice President Steve Weidner National Legislative Committee Chairman Paul M. Rinaldi President WELCOME Dear NATCA Brothers and Sisters, Welcome to beautiful Capitol Hill and Washington, D.C.! To us, springtime in Washington means the spirited and crucially important gathering of more than 400 dedicated NATCAvists. We love that you have shown such a strong interest in and enthusiasm for NATCA's legislative activism. Whether you've been to many NATCA in Washington events or this is your first time, we welcome you to our nation's capital! We have a great program planned for you this year. To all of you, we extend a profound thank you for being here on your own time. Our advice to you this week is to absorb as much information as you can, ask as many questions as you have, and remember that you are representing not just yourselves, but all NATCA members. It is a source of great pride to have you here this week, thoroughly engaged in the most important issues for this Union, ready to go to work for your fellow brothers and sisters. This week we will discuss strategies and opportunities for your important legislative work to continue after you return home. Nobody knows your professions like you. When you meet with members of Congress and their staffs, you are the subject matter experts. You work on the front lines of aviation safety. You will have the unique opportunity to report what your job is like, describe how the National Airspace System runs, and explain the necessary steps to ensure the future safety and efficiency of the NAS directly to Congress. So much has happened since we gathered here last year. Proposals to reauthorize the FAA now include an alternate not-for-profit organizational structure, which would create a more stable and predictable funding stream and allow for future modernization and growth. Many issues that are crucial to your facilities – such as hiring, staffing, technology, and modernization – are directly tied to lawmakers' work on both short- and long-term planning and funding for the Agency. On behalf of your National Executive Board and your National Legislative Committee, welcome and thank you! We hope you will take full advantage this unique event intended to educate, inspire, and prepare you to channel your dedication and passion for aviation safety and your Union into a year of legislative activism. Enjoy your week! In solidarity, 3