Vermont has a growing demand for high-speed internet, with many rural areas that are not yet connected. Fiber optics plays a critical role in meeting this demand.
With the increasing demand for high-speed internet and other data transmission services, the need for skilled fiber optics installers will continue to grow, making it a promising career path for those interested in the field.
Apprenticeship Program
Vermont Tech, in collaboration with the Vermont Department of Labor are launching a broadband installer apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program trains you to become skilled in a trade or profession by combining classroom learning and hands-on work.
This will be a FREE on-the-job training beginning spring 2023.
Responsibilities of a Broadband Installer:
- Climbs poles and ladders and works aloft with hand tools.
- Enters tunnels, buildings, trenches, crawl spaces, or manholes to place, maintain or remove fiber optic equipment
- Installs, repairs, and maintains fiber optic facilities and equipment in support of voice, video, and broadband wired and wireless facilities
- Installs, configures, repairs, and maintains fiber optic facilities for customers
Benefits of working as a fiber optics technician:
- Job stability (3.3% job growth over the next 5 years)
- Competitive salaries
- Opportunities for career advancement.
Minimum Basic Requirements:
- High School Diploma or equivalent (this includes those who anticipate having either requirement in the next six months.)
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to climb utility poles and hi-altitude ladders, as well as work aloft for extended periods of time, along with the ability to work in confined spaces, including manholes.
- Visual ability to determine the color distinctions in wire and cable colors
- Ability to work away from roadways in remote areas across rough terrain while carrying heavy loads.
