Satcom Direct created AeroIT, an information technology certification built to help aviation personnel expand their knowledge of airborne communications and IT networking.

AeroIT certification training classes will be held at Satcom Direct’s global headquarters in Satellite Beach, Florida. The study guide is also available for those who want to prepare for the certification exam on their own schedule.

“Today’s aircraft technicians need to know more than airframes and powerplants; they have to be IT experts as well. We introduced AeroIT to address this critical skills deficit,” said Jim Jensen, founder and CEO of Satcom Direct. “AeroIT equips flight departments with the knowledge to configure and troubleshoot onboard networks and SATCOM systems, which both enhances their professional development and supports our customers’ missions,” he continued.

The first opportunity to enroll in AeroIT training was given to customers attending Satcom Direct’s annual Connecting with Customers technical training event this week in San Diego, with the first classes filling up quickly. The curriculum includes three days of instruction, as well as a fourth day of review, with the opportunity to take the exam.

The certification exam is offered at any Pearson VUE test center in the U.S. and will be available worldwide later this year. The AeroIT credential is valid for three years and then must be renewed. Additional levels of certification are in development to validate higher levels of mastery.

“We’re so committed to AeroIT certification that a new Pearson VUE test center is being installed in our global headquarters, currently under construction in Viera, Florida,” added Jensen. The facility will open in late 2015.

All members of the Satcom Direct sales and support staff are required to obtain the AeroIT certification.