The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) announced it is launching a new Fiber Optic Technician program this fall to meet the growing demand for fiber optic specialists. In collaboration with the Arkansas Fiber Academy, UAHT aims to provide students with practical experience and the knowledge necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot fiber broadband networks for homes and businesses.
The program will consist of nine weeks of evening classes, with new sessions beginning approximately every 12 weeks. The course is free for eligible students, thanks to funding from the Office of Skills Development. Upon completing the program, graduates will qualify for the Fiber Broadband Association’s OpTIC Path three-year certification, enhancing their credentials in the industry.
Laura Clark, Vice Chancellor for Academics at UAHT, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the university’s dedication to equipping students with in-demand skills while eliminating financial obstacles. She noted that by training future fiber optic technicians, UAHT is not only shaping individual careers but also contributing to a more connected and digitally advanced future for the region.
The need for telecommunications technicians is on the rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting above-average growth for telecommunications line installer and repairer jobs over the next decade. In Arkansas, the average wage for workers in this field is $30.11 per hour, highlighting the career opportunities available to those entering the industry. The Arkansas Fiber Academy underscores that high-speed internet is now a necessity, further driving the demand for skilled fiber optic technicians.
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