As 5G buildouts have slowed, telecom workforce trainer Learning Alliance Corporation has teamed up with network testing and monitoring giant VIAVI to help wireless infrastructure companies diversify into deploying fiber.
As a result, the Learning Alliance expanded its Broadband Fiber Digital Installer (BFDI) program to include enhanced training and skill development with the introduction of an intensive four-day Fiber Optic Boot Camp.
“We wanted to build training programs to streamline the transition to the wireline side of the business,” Fred Arnold, CCO at Learning Alliance, said. “The fiber bootcamp borrows content from our Broadband Fiber Digital Installer program and modifies it into a four-day class that has less impact on people’s time.”
The Learning Alliance began in 2004 as an alliance between businesses, colleges, and institutions to provide diversity to training initiatives for workers in the telecom industry. Since then, it has supported over 300 educational grant initiatives, providing businesses with the ability to educate new and incumbent workers.
The Learning Alliance has been providing the Broadband Fiber Digital Installer program since towers began moving away from coax into fiber. That led to a partnership with the Fiber Broadband Association, which opened the door to a much bigger need on the wireline side for very specific training in fiber deployment.
“The Fiber Broadband Association became one of our great partners. They’ve helped us make the program unique. We can cross train individuals to work on the tower but also on the outside plant infrastructure,” Arnold explained.
The Fiber Optic Boot Camp is an extensive training module that comprehensively covers the critical aspects of fiber optic technology, including installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. It caters to both newcomers and experienced professionals.
“The program is a testament to the Learning Alliance’s commitment to versatile and inclusive training,” said Arnold. “We created a scenario that can get somebody trained quickly, with hands-on learning and development. We give the students the core skills that they need and then we get them back to their jobs in the field.”
VIAVI has donated the latest fiber testing equipment to the Learning Alliance, which allows students to learn on the technology that they will see in the field. “Every person who successfully completes the program, receives a VIAVI certification,” Arnold said. “They have to finish a close out package and submit it with photos. It’s in-depth training.”
The Learning Alliance also has a partnership with Frontier Communications (NASDAQ: FYBR), which donated high-speed fiber internet connections, poles, trucks, and training through its Broadband For Good program. Frontier’s high-speed, low-latency internet access allows Learning Alliance students to use virtual reality training tools. More importantly, Frontier provides guidance, direction, and training, along with required tools.
The relationships with VIAVI and Frontier complement each other, according to Arnold. VIAVI provides testing equipment that students use when they climb the utility poles or test the fiber that is provided by Frontier.
“We bring our partners together, so everybody can help build the next generation technician and ensure they’re well qualified,” Arnold said.
Industry partnerships also help Learning Alliance place its graduates into high skill, high wage telecommunications positions.
“We have introduced Talent Link, which provides exclusive access for Learning Alliance graduates and associated telecom employers to a wealth of opportunities,” Arnold said. “This platform bridges the gap between skilled professionals and leading industry employers, facilitating seamless integration into rewarding career paths.”
Conclusion
Learning Alliance dedicates itself to building stronger workforce development for trades. It partners with businesses, universities, and colleges to bring structured training to veterans and civilians, readying them for life-long careers. Its mission is to convene the industry and exchange ideas that shape the future of trades.
For more information, email [email protected].
By J. Sharpe Smith, Inside Towers Technology Editor
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