At Laurel Ridge Community College, we’re excited to introduce our new Fiber Optic Installer program, designed to address the growing need for skilled professionals in the rapidly expanding field of fiber optics. In a recent episode of The River 95.3’s radio show, The Valley Today, Guy Curtis, our marketing director, and Samantha Brill, program manager for Workforce Solutions, shared details about this timely program and its potential to launch rewarding careers.
With the surge in data centers and the increasing demand for high-speed internet infrastructure, the need for fiber optic installers has never been greater. As Guy and Samantha discussed, you’ve likely seen fiber installation projects taking place along highways and throughout local neighborhoods. This growth has created an abundance of well-paying job opportunities with strong career potential for those entering the field.
Samantha explained that our program is structured to provide hands-on, real-world training in just five to six weeks. Students will work in our fully equipped fiber lab at the Fauquier Campus, gaining practical experience and certification that prepares them to start working immediately. Classes are heldt two evenings a week, making the program flexible for those with busy schedules.
In addition to the program’s comprehensive training, we also offer financial assistance through Fast Forward and G3 funding, which significantly reduce the cost, making this program more accessible to students in our community.
So, who is this program for? Samantha noted that it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys working outdoors and solving problems. No previous experience is necessary, which makes it an ideal entry point for people seeking a fresh career start.
To wrap up the episode, Guy and host Janet Michael discussed how students can register for the program and the additional opportunities available for further education and advanced certifications in fiber optics.
If you’re interested in learning more about the rapidly growing field of fiber optics, or taking the first step toward a new career, we invite you to check out our Fiber Optic Installer program at https://laurelridgeworkforce.com.