Today, SCTE and Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) announced the launch of a new workforce training program for the broadband industry.
The new SCTE/CSU Global program — under the umbrella of CSU Global’s new Broadband Operations Management Certificate — is being touted as the first asynchronous program for broadband training.
The SCTE/CSU Global program will offer training in “broadband infrastructure, focusing on fiber optics, directional drilling, utility safety, and leadership skills,” according to the joint announcement. SCTE members are offered lower tuition rates and can earn CSU Global academic credit for some SCTE certifications and courses.
“We are honored to partner with SCTE to address a critical need in our state and across the nation,” said CSU Global President Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker.
“This partnership not only provides educational training opportunities but also directly contributes to the economic vitality and connectivity of our communities. Partnering with leading organizations like SCTE allows us to stay at the forefront of industry needs, ensuring our programs are continuously aligned with the current technical skills and knowledge employers are seeking for learner workplace and professional success.”
The need for broadband workforce training — such as the new SCTE/CSU Global program — has been a hot subject in the industry for years.
Like the new SCTE program, the Fiber Broadband Association’s OpTIC Path Program — which began in 2022 — addresses the broadband workforce training needs of the future. Corning also offers a Fiber Broadband Training Program.
Last year, Telecompetitor spoke to Fiber Broadband Association Vice President of Research and Workforce Development Deborah Kish. The number of workers needed in the broadband workforce in the next five years is “the number everyone has been chasing,” Kish said at the time. She recounted the process — over the past two years or so — of refining an initial estimate of 350,000 workers down to the FBA’s new figure: 180,000.
