Regional broadband operator Vyve Broadband, Fort Hayes State University (FHSU) in Kansas, and CableLabs subsidiary Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) have launched an associate degree program focused on telecom.
The program will enable Vyve employees to earn an associate’s degree in general studies with an emphasis in computer networking and telecommunications. The degree can be completed through FHSU Online.
“Vyve Broadband is committed to the development of our employees,” Vyve Regional Vice President Travis Kohlrus said in a press release. “We are excited about this opportunity for our team members both in Kansas and across the country to advance their skills and knowledge as well as careers. Post-secondary education plays a key role in career development, and we are proud to support all our employees who wish to work towards their degree through FHSU Online.”
Addressing the Workforce Shortage Challenge
The fast-paced changes in telecommunications and broadband have generated a concerted effort to train a more technically skilled workforce. Additionally, unprecedented demand for new network construction is helping contribute to trained workforce shortages. Community colleges are playing a key role in helping address this challenge
Last week, Northeast Mississippi Community College (NEMCC) said it will soon offer the Optical Telecom Installer Certification Path (OpTIC Path) program that was created by the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA).
Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC), a two-year school in northwest Louisiana, said earlier this month that it would offer the program as well.
Another program is being offered at the State University of New York Westchester Community College (SUNYWCC). It is a three-day fiber technician training course that does not require participants to be enrolled in a degree program. The program aims to prepare students to take the Certified Fiber Optic Technician examination sanctioned by the Fiber Optics Association (FOA).
Another program is in northern Alabama. The Cullman Electric Cooperative is partnering with the Cullman Area Technology Academy (CADA) on a program to teach high school students about jobs involving both fiber optics and electric lineman work.
