The DOL’s approval last November of the Broadband Technician training signified a crucial expansion of WIA’s ability to offer support and guidance for developing high-quality apprenticeship programs in this critical field.
The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) is celebrating the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) and its Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) as it signed an agreement with its 100th industry employer.
FBA and other telecommunications companies and industry organizations work with WIA to develop apprenticeship programs accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), including training for a broad range of career paths, including wireless, tower, fiber, utility, and small cell technicians.
When employers partner with TIRAP, they access a continuous pipeline of newly trained talent and can leverage the program to advance existing employees. Employers also receive incentives for each apprentice they register with the program.
According to Wireless Estimator, in 2017, TIRAP had only one company in its apprenticeship program. By September 2020, that number had risen to 30 companies, and on Wednesday, TIRAP proudly announced the signing of its 100th employer partner.
Wireless Estimator’s November 2022 article further emphasizes the significance of TIRAP’s achievements. The report details that DOL approved the Broadband Technician as the 15th Registered Apprenticeship Program offered through TIRAP. WIA, as the DOL’s contracted industry intermediary,
Patrick Halley, WIA President & CEO, states, “Registered Apprenticeships are the best way to improve training programs and build the workforce America needs to deploy the broadband networks of today and tomorrow.”
Deborah Kish, Vice President of Research and Workforce Development at FBA, praises TIRAP’s achievements, stating, “By building and maintaining a pipeline of well-trained employees, we can ensure fiber networks are built and delivered to every home in the nation.”