Northeast makes the leap to light speed
NEMCC announces innovative Fiber Optic Technician Training program
BOONEVILLE, Miss. -- (07/17/2023) — Northeast Mississippi Community College's latest announcement is making waves in the workforce industry as the college launched its innovative Fiber Optic Technician Training program and gave selected workforce members a tour of its Fiber Optic Training facility at the Northeast campus in Corinth on Monday, July 17.
Industry leaders were able to get a firsthand glimpse of the opportunities that await students in the dynamic world of fiber optics.
With the program, Northeast is taking the leap to light speed to meet the growing demand for skilled fiber optic technicians in the region with the introduction of the Optical Telecom Installer Certification Path.
Due to its unique features and potential to help the citizens of Mississippi but the surrounding area, the Northeast program is attracting attention from those looking to enhance their skills or explore new career paths.
Upon completion of the 144-hour program, participants will receive a nationally recognized certificate from the Fiber Broadband Association. This certification holds significant value and opens doors to a multitude of career opportunities in the rapidly expanding field of fiber optics.
Northeast, the Alcorn County Electric Power Association's Fiber Internet (ACE Fiber) and the Fiber Broadband Association worked together to develop the cutting-edge curriculum for students at the Northeast Corinth campus, and the Fiber Broadband Association has recognized the college's commitment to closing the digital divide and supporting local fiber broadband network growth.
Northeast's Optical Telecom Installer Certification Path is a workforce training program specifically designed to equip students with the skills needed to become quality fiber technicians.
For those interested in the course, tuition for the 144-hour program is affordable at just $1,199.
As Mississippi experiences rapid growth in fiber deployment, the need for well-trained technicians is more critical than ever.
Thanks to state and federal infrastructure funding, the expansion of fiber networks has accelerated, creating opportunities for jobs in the field.
Traditional fiber providers are in high demand for skilled technicians to keep pace with the ongoing expansion.
Additionally, new players in the fiber industry, such as electric cooperatives and private companies, are also seeking fully trained workers to ensure efficiency and competitiveness in their operations.
Northeast has a dedicated curriculum division that focuses on workforce training and collaborates closely with local communities and industries.
By understanding the specific needs of these companies, the college tailors its Workforce curriculum to meet the demands of the job market effectively.
Northeast is already working in partnership with local fiber network operators, such as Alcorn County Electric Power Association, Tippah Electric Power Association, and Tombigbee Fiber, to ensure that the training is tailored to meet local requirements.
Power cooperatives are also actively involved in sourcing Optical Telecom Installer Certification Path course instructors and aiding in drafting grant funding proposals to purchase training equipment.
In keeping with Northeast's aspiration of becoming one of the best technology schools in the country, the Fiber Optic Technician Training program is no different and offers a variety of learning experiences that equip students with the tools for their future careers, including a state-of-the-art digital platform.
Through this platform, students can create personal profiles and upload pictures and documents, providing evidence of their progress and meeting course requirements. This digital portfolio becomes an asset that allows them to showcase their achievements to potential employers.
With the opportunities for hands-on learning, students can gain confidence in real-world scenarios, ensuring that they are prepared for the demands of the ever-growing fiber optic job market.
By supplying specialized training in fiber optic technology, the college is not only addressing the local demand for skilled technicians but also contributing to the overall progress of the region in the digital age.
As the first Optical Telecom Installer Certification Path approaches, students and industries can look to a more innovative future with enhanced fiber broadband networks, bringing more opportunities and connectivity to northeast Mississippi, the Magnolia State and the tri-state region as a whole.
--NEMCC--