Earlier this month, the Iowa Communications Network (ICN) hosted an interactive training day for Ottumwa Job Corps’ network cabling installation (NCI) students, giving them insight on what skills are used in operating and maintaining a statewide fiber broadband network.
The training started with students learning how a historic building — the Iowa state capitol — was preserved while also being outfitted with the modern fiber cabling needed for modern internet, Wi-Fi networks, and emergency communications services.
Afternoon sessions included:
Mapping the Network: ICN’s Broadband Information Center (BRIC) was the site of hands-on information about the many network sites with backup power, how weather can affect the infrastructure, and how the team views and monitors the ticketing system.
Fiber Optics, Outside Plant: ICN experts displayed various examples of fiber optic cables, including a cable chewed through by a rodent. The experts explained the industry’s color-coding system, then had students practiced splicing the cables together.
Onsite in the Field: This portion of the training featured Fiber Utilities Network Services experts, who explained how they troubleshoot network alarms, perform routine maintenance, and test backup batteries with equipment in their truck.
Behind the Scenes: ICN led a tour of the Capitol Complex to show how emergency backup systems keep elevators and fire panels connected. Students also visited a broadband closet to see how cables and switches connect an entire building.
Other organizations are also providing training for the future fiber broadband workforce. SCTE (the Society of Telecommunication Engineers) recently launched a pair of trainings aimed at increasing the number of capable fiber installers. Their new Fiber-Optic Cable Blowing Microcredential and Proactive Network Maintenance course series are designed to ensure that technicians have validated fiber installation skills and standards-based network troubleshooting training.
