Residents interested in pursuing careers in the growing broadband telecommunications industry can register for the next free FiberOptiX Bootcamp, scheduled for Aug. 3-7 at the College of Central Florida Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus.
The one-week training program will be held at the campus, located at 15390 U.S. Highway 19, approximately five miles north of Chiefland. The enrollment deadline is July 24. Those interested in enrolling in the program or learning more should call 800-434-5627, ext. 4206, email broadband@careersourceclm.com or visit careersourceclm.com/broadband.
The FiberOptiX Bootcamp is part of the Creating Connections program, an initiative designed to help meet the growing demand for skilled broadband technicians as high-speed internet infrastructure expands across rural North Florida. The program supports broadband deployment for approximately 70,000 residents and businesses within the CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, CareerSource North Central Florida and CareerSource North Florida regions.
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion oversees the initiative across 10 counties in the three workforce regions, including Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, Suwannee and Union counties. According to program officials, 64 residents from those six counties have completed the training, representing 91% of total program participation to date.
Participants will receive hands-on instruction using fiber optic cable, patch panels and industry-standard testing equipment. Graduates also have the opportunity to earn three industry-recognized certifications valued at approximately $3,350, along with job placement assistance in the broadband telecommunications field.
The program also provides wraparound support services, including travel assistance, uniforms and tools to help participants complete the training and prepare for employment.
Training is conducted by BDI DataLynk, a Fiber Optic Association-sanctioned provider of fiber optic network technician training. The Fiber Optic Association is the world’s largest professional society dedicated to fiber optics.
