Governor Kay Ivey Makes Statewide Broadband Access Announcement at WCCD’s Dothan Campus
Skyler Olds, center, demonstrated the Skills for Success fiber optic technician and installer training for Gov. Kay Ivey during a news conference at Wallace Community College Dothan on Tuesday, Aug. 8
DOTHAN, AL—Wallace Community College-Dothan (WCCD) hosted Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday, August 8th on the Wallace Campus in Dothan as she made a statewide announcement on the future of high-speed internet connectivity in Alabama. After the announcement, WCCD fiber optic training students provided a demonstration for the Governor and participants on how to deploy the fiber optic cables needed for high-speed internet delivery. This training, developed through the Alabama Community College System’s Innovation Center, brings together the state’s community colleges, industries and community partners to deliver training offered at no cost to participants thanks to funding provided by Ivey and the Alabama Legislature
During her visit to WCCD, Governor Ivey announced how more than $400 million in federal funding and over $1.4 billion from the U.S. Department of Commerce Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment Program (BEAD) will be used to expand access to high-speed internet across Alabama. Governor Ivey also unveiled Be Linked Alabama as the name and hub representing the state’s continued efforts to expand access to high-speed internet.
“Wallace Community College is delighted to share in this exciting announcement that will positively impact our entire state,” said Dr. Linda Young, WCCD President. “We are so pleased to have been chosen as the site to host this event, and we are especially honored by the presence of our distinguished Governor the Honorable Kay Ivey.”
“The College’s workforce development fiber optics training program has enhanced the skills of many in this growing industry,” Dr. Young added. “This program is possible due to the support and investment of our industry partners, the Alabama Community College System, and the state. It is truly amazing what we can accomplish together in support of our mission to help our students succeed in their chosen profession. Wallace is excited about the opportunities available through this program and through other programs offered by the Innovation Center. Alabama’s community colleges serve as the premier workforce training provider for our state, and we are proud to help meet the needs of the Wiregrass and beyond.”
WCCD’s fiber optic training was selected by ACCS to pilot a statewide training program for those interested in careers as fiber optic technicians. Skills for Success, the rapid training program developed by the ACCS Innovation Center, brings together the state’s community colleges, business and industry, and community partners to deliver industry-recognized, non-credit training for in-demand jobs.
The fiber optics training is offered at no cost to participants. The course covers best practices and fundamental principles behind basic data and voice transmission via fiber optic cable, as well as installation and termination techniques. Students learn how to identify fiber types, recognize various connectors used in fiber installation, and install, terminate, splice, and test multimode or single-mode fiber optic networks according to existing standards. The course combines online theory and in-person, hands-on lab activities to prepare students for employment or advancement in the fiber optics industry. Other skills covered include customer service, communication, leadership, attention to detail, and time management. Once students complete the training, they are job-ready and are awarded a credential and an opportunity to earn more certifications at their local community college.
For more information about the WCCD fiber optics training, please contact Joe Johnson at jjohnson@wallace.edu or 334-556-2390. Information can also be found by visiting wallace.edu/wfd.