Look out for the new fiber optics lab! Opening to students this July at the Workforce Development Conference Center on the Reynolds Parham Road Campus, this new training space will provide students with hands-on experience as they prepare for the Fiber Optics Installer Certification — a credential that opens doors in the booming telecommunications and data center industries.
Hands-On Training for a High-Demand Industry
The Fiber Optics Installer Certification training course will cover everything from the fundamentals of fiber optics and transmission theory to the installation of cables, splicing, and connectors. The new lab will reinforce these lessons by offering students an immersive, hands-on learning experience.
The training program also serves as certification preparation for the ETA Fiber Optic Installer (FOI) Exam, helping students gain industry-recognized credentials that employers are actively seeking across multiple industries, such as telecommunications, internet service providers, and cable TV companies. Demand is particularly high in the rapidly growing data center sector.
Addressing Workforce Needs Through Innovation
The fiber optics lab is supported through a $950,000 grant awarded to Reynolds and CCWA by the Virginia Community College System. This four-year initiative is designed to develop comprehensive training programs for data center workers, addressing the growing demand for skilled technicians in the fiber optics installation and electrical trades in Virginia’s rapidly expanding data center industry.
"Our goal is to offer customized, innovative training programs and apprenticeships that meet workforce training needs. This significant investment will help create a pipeline of qualified professionals for Virginia's thriving data center industry, by offering these FastForward programs, we're providing valuable career pathways while supporting the Commonwealth's skilled trades and technology infrastructure growth." said Elizabeth Creamer, Vice President of Workforce Development.
High Demand for Certified Technicians
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 24,600 new job openings for telecommunications technicians. With employers increasingly looking for certified professionals, CCWA’s fiber optics training and new lab will equip students with the skills and credentials needed to secure in-demand careers.
"CCWA eliminates barriers between Richmond's workforce needs and career seekers through our industry-aligned training programs," said Creamer. "From your first step in career exploration to earning your credentials to connecting with employers, we provide the complete roadmap to your future in the skilled trades."
Get Started Today!
Eager to enter this high-growth field? Take advantage of CCWA’s industry-aligned training programs and lab resources. For more information about CCWA's training programs, visit ccwatraining.org or call 804-523-2292.