Many entry-level jobs in the broadband industry require a certification to stand out in a competitive market. These certifications not only demonstrate your dedication and expertise in the field, but also provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your career.
By investing in a certification, you are investing in your future success and opening doors to endless opportunities in the broadband industry.
What is a certification in fiber optics?
In today's high-tech world, holding a certification not only solidifies your professional status but is often a key requirement for entry-level jobs within the broadband industry. Certification signifies that you have met certain performance criteria outlined by the certifying organization — usually knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) — either through training, experience or a combination of both.
These certifications validate your expertise to clients, employers and colleagues, showcasing your proficiency in the dynamic field of broadband technology. For example, many entry level fiber installations and maintenance or fiber splicer roles require you to be a certified fiber technician.
Certification vs. license
A certification is not a license, which is an official government approval of an individual to do business in a jurisdiction (i.e. state or territory) issuing the license.
Many states in the USA now require licensing for contractors installing communications cabling. Check your local area to determine the requirements for licensing of fiber-optic and low-voltage contractors.
A certification is also not a substitute for experience. A certification ensures the person has an industry-accepted level of knowledge, skills and abilities as measured by the certification, but the certified student is expected to improve those skills with experience and on-the-job training.
Those hiring fiber optic technicians should include other criteria as well as certifications when recruiting and selecting personnel, including references, experience and other related training and experience.
What are industry-based certifications (IBCs)?
According to a study by George Washington University, “Industry-based certifications address several problems that postsecondary credentials currently face including relevance, accountability, consistency and portability. Because industry-based certifications are more flexible than traditional degrees, they better reflect current industry standards and competencies, which are in constant flux."
Broadband experts play a crucial role in setting and upholding the standards for certifications. These experts are dedicated to continuously evolving the certifications to meet the ever-changing needs and advancements in the industry.
Their commitment ensures that certifications remain relevant and up-to-date, reflecting the latest trends and technologies in broadband. By relying on the expertise of industry professionals, certifications maintain their credibility and value, providing professionals with the recognition and validation they need to excel in their careers.
How are certifications different from a college degree?
The industry's demand for personal credentials, rather than the traditional educational system, is the driving force behind industry-based certification. As a result, these certifications are gaining increased acceptance among educators, employers and government policymakers.
They differ greatly from other kinds of postsecondary credentials and awards in that they are exam-based, administered and accredited by industry-recognized third parties (certifying bodies); and, they are developed by the private sector with little to no involvement from public institutions.
They are not tied to particular programs of study but can serve as both alternatives and supplements to traditional postsecondary awards, such as college degrees or associate degrees and certificates.
Why are certifications important to become a fiber optic technician?
Certifications are crucial for aspiring fiber optic technicians as they not only validate your expertise and knowledge in the field but also set you apart from other candidates.
With the rapid advancements in broadband technology, employers are looking for individuals who have the necessary skills and training to meet the demands of the industry. By obtaining a certification as a fiber optic technician, you demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and development, showing that you have the competency and proficiency required to excel in this dynamic field.
Certification serves as a valuable asset that not only boosts your career prospects but also opens doors to new opportunities and advancements in the broadband industry.
Don't underestimate the power of certification in establishing yourself as a credible and skilled professional in the world of fiber optics. Beyond the competitive advantage, research has also shown that certifications generally lead to higher pay and faster career advancement for the individual.
What type of training is available to prepare for certification?
Short-term training programs that qualify you to earn a certification can help kickstart your career, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly and start earning a paycheck. These programs provide hands-on training and industry-specific knowledge that prepares you for success in the broadband industry.
Numerous community colleges provide comprehensive training programs that encompass certification testing as part of their curriculum. There are also a wide range of industry associations and training institutions that offer training and certifications. You can see many listed on the training pages of the Broadband Nation website.
There are also many organizations that provide certifications across different industries. One such association is the Fiber Optics Association (FOA).
Their certifications are recognized by the US Department of Labor and many other government organizations worldwide. FOA certifications have been created by groups of technical advisors that represent service providers, manufacturers, government agencies and educational institutions.
How long is a certification valid?
Typically, a fiber certification is valid for three years and must be renewed upon expiration to remain competitive and up-to-date on new technologies and processes.
About The Fiber Optic Association (FOA):
The Fiber Optic Association (FOA) was founded by industry leaders and trainers in 1995 to help create a competent workforce to build telecom networks and the Internet.
FOA was chartered to promote professionalism in fiber optics through education, certification and standards. FOA is not a training organization; it is an international certification body with affiliated training organization worldwide. FOA certifications are recognized by the US Department of Labor, service providers, labor unions and many other organizations worldwide. To date, FOA has certified around 100,000 fiber optics techs holding over 150,000 certifications.