Ep. 340 | Training the Tower: Bruce Bevins Builds the Future of Air Traffic Control with ATCFO

In this episode of Small Biz Florida, hosted by Tom Kindred, the spotlight is on innovation and veteran entrepreneurship at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches in Tampa. Tom interviews Navy veteran Bruce Bevins, founder and CEO of ATCFO (Air Traffic Control Future Operators), the first accredited air traffic control training program at the trade school level in the United States. Located at Bartow Executive Airport, ATCFO offers a groundbreaking pathway into air traffic control—eliminating the need for a traditional college degree and providing students with real-world experience and certification.

Bruce shares his extensive career in air traffic control and discusses how ATCFO is addressing the critical shortage of controllers nationwide. He also highlights the high-paying job opportunities in the field, especially for veterans looking to transition into civilian careers. Throughout the conversation, Bruce emphasizes the role Veterans Florida has played in supporting his entrepreneurial journey and outlines his plans for expanding training facilities to meet growing demand.

This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Veterans Florida Expo and Battle of the Pitches hosted at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital.

Connect with Our Guest:
https://www.atcfo.us