THE SELF-DESCRIPTION INVENTORY IN A SAMPLE OF FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA) AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINEES

PURPOSE: Previous research shows that measures of personality have predictive validity in selection across many occupations. In support of our goal of improving the Air Traffic Selection and Training test, we examined the Self-Description Inventory (SDI+). This instrument measures the Big Five personality traits. Additionally, it provides measures of Service Orientation (S) and Teamwork Orientation (T). These scales make the SDI+ an appealing potential addition to the FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) selection process. However, before this can occur, we need to understand how the SDI+ behaves in our target population.