CWA/NETT ACADEMY Mailbag: Fiber Optics Training Prepares Techs for Future

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Home technology that will handle voice, data, Internet and TV all through one high-speed line is here, and CWA members who want to grow with the technology can get trained through CWA/NETT Academy.

"This is one of the courses we knew there would be a growing demand for. So last fall we found the class our members want and added it to our course list," said Kevin Celata, CWA/NETT Academy training administrator.

Providing a practical understanding of Passive Optical Networks, "Fiber Optics and Lasers, Single Mode Fiber" is comprised of online study and 20 hours of hands-on training with a 6:1 student/instructor ratio.

It teaches outside techs how to do the job and gives inside network technicians the understanding they need to activate optical network terminals and trouble-shoot problems.

Jacqueline Crews, a Local 2205 inside technician and steward, recruited 14 of her co-workers to take the course with her, with the bill paid by their CWA-negotiated training benefits.

Said Crews, "I thought it would be a good grounding to understand what they do out there, and it would be good to have the skills to know how to splice fiber optic cable in case I ever want to apply for a job in the field."

A sound knowledge of fiber optics might be your route to a better job, and CWA/NETT Academy can help you take the next step. To learn more about the Academy's programs, log onto our website at www.cwanett.org. You just might find the key to your future.

Have a training success story you'd like to share? Send it to Kevin Celata, at kcelata@cwa-union.org.