By WNCC
SCOTTSBLUFF - Western Nebraska Community College will host a five-day training course in November for certified fiber optic technicians with specialties in testing and splicing. WNCC has partnered with BDI DataLynk, a standards-based company to provide the FOA (Fiber Optic Association) sanctioned training.
The Certified Fiber Optic Technician class runs Monday, November 28 through Friday, December 2. Class time is 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day. Each class consists of hands-on skills labs paired with lecture and book learning to fully prepare students for their FOA Certification Exams and begin their careers.
“Feedback from the telecom and cable industry throughout the Panhandle indicates that fiber optic technicians are in short supply” WNCC's Executive Director of Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning Doug Mader said. “Five days of training for a job that pays anywhere from $35,000 to $60,000 is a big win for local employers and workforce. We also have GAP Community College funds that can help pay tuition for those who qualify so we encourage anyone interested to call us and apply.”
According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, fiber optic technicians are H3 (high wage, high skill, high demand) occupations in the state and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of fiber optic technicians is projected to grow eight percent through 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. The US telecommunications industry employs a total of 672,000 workers, with average annual wages of $77,500.
It’s forecasted that 5G rollout and other technologies could create 850,000 more new direct broadband and 5G jobs through 2025.
The tuition for the Certified Fiber Optic Technicians course is $2,200.00. GAP funding is available to those who qualify. Pre-registration for the course is required. Call 308-635-6700 for more information and to register.