INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Cabling

Fiber optic technician training program helps shape the next generation of fiber technicians , helping communities across the United States access affordable , high-speed fiber broadband networks .

FBA estimates that 180,000 new workers will be needed over the next decade to meet the construction , maintenance and expansion demands associated with the $ 42.45 billion Broadband Equity Access and Deployment ( BEAD ) program .

The OpTIC Path program provides crucial skills to jumpstart a futureproof career in fiber broadband while also helping fill the broadband technician workforce gap that plagues North America .

“ The future of fiber is now . We must begin training the next generation of fiber technicians today to build successful fiber networks tomorrow ,” said Deborah Kish , Vice President of Research and Workforce Development , Fiber Broadband Association .

“ I ’ m excited to see that our OpTIC Path program continues to grow across the states and more institutions . Together , we are ensuring that we have the workforce to successfully deploy fiber to communities , and we ’ re also increasing opportunities for successful and rewarding careers .”

The Wireless Infrastructure Association ( WIA ) has confirmed it will expand its support of the OpTIC Path program and include it in WIA ’ s Telecommunications Education Center curriculum .

Additionally , FBA ’ s OpTIC Path program is implemented at schools and institutions across the US . including most recently at Illinois ’ Morrison Institute of Technology , Southside Virginia Community College , University of Arkansas Hope Texarkana , Mississippi Delta Community College Caps Center and Tennessee ’ s Bledsoe County School District .

Fiber broadband is critical for the rural areas of Bledsoe County Community , for instance , because of its transformative impact on daily life , economic development , education , and healthcare .

“ By partnering with FBA to offer the OpTIC Path program , Southside Virginia Community College is providing community members a pathway to advance their education and succeed in exciting career options ,” said Dennis Smith , Director of Workforce Development .

Selina Sparkman , Director of Schools at Bledsoe County School District , said : " The hands-on training and industry-recognized certification in fiber optics equip our students with highly soughtafter skills , offering valuable opportunities for their futures , while fostering economic growth in our communities .”

FBA is engaged with 40 of its targeted 56 states and territories to roll out the OpTIC Path program , with 44 service providers and 70 community colleges and training institutions .

The OpTIC Path program is rapidly gaining traction among employers in the fiber broadband industry . These employers work hand-in-hand with schools and training institutions to ensure a steady supply of certified technicians ready to join the workforce .

Furthermore , they are integrating OpTIC Path into their workforce development programs , leveraging it to reskill and upskill their existing employees as part of their overall workforce development strategy . p

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