Many students leave high school unsure about their next steps. They might be trying to decide on a major, or perhaps they aren't certain college is the path for them. An up-and-coming field that many are unaware of is fiber optics. One specific career to consider is that of a fiber optic installation technician. These professionals install and maintain fiber optic cables so homes and businesses can leverage fast connections for the internet, phones, and television. Here are some of the skills that can benefit prospective fiber optic technicians.
Fiber optic installation requires the handling and testing of various cables, so being familiar with hand tools can be beneficial. For splicing wires, a technician may use crimp tools, shears, and wire strippers. They may also use a light source and power meter to examine connections and an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) to test the connection of the new wires.
Fiber optics power strong internet connections for IT departments in businesses, so technicians must have a general understanding of standard IT components. For instance, a technician may need to connect the new wiring to a business’s modem. In this case, they’d need familiarity with basic IT equipment such as modems and servers, including what they look like and how they operate.
Much of a fiber optics installer’s job involves math. For example, they may need to calculate how many feet of wiring will be needed to complete a job. Or perhaps they’ll need to test speeds to determine whether the wiring meets the required parameters. Having strong addition, subtraction, and estimation skills can be beneficial in this industry.
The fiber optic cables technicians work with contain fragile strands of glass through which light signals are carried. Damaging these wires during the installation process could prevent proper connectivity. Technicians must therefore be highly cautious and detail-oriented when handling the cables and using tools.
Many installations will take place outdoors, and it’s possible repairs may be needed in any range of weather conditions. Technicians should therefore be comfortable working in the heat and the cold. Technicians should also feel comfortable working in tight areas such as basements, attics and crawl spaces, as part of the fiber installation process may take place in these spaces. They should also possess strong interpersonal skills for interacting with customers in office environments.
If you have the necessary skills and think you'd enjoy a career in fiber optics, contact Kemp Communications LLC in Madison, WI. With open positions in telecom and broadband, this company offers freedom and flexibility, along with the opportunity to expand your skill set. Visit them online to browse available positions, including those for fiber optic installation technicians, or call (833) 732-0452 to speak with an associate.
Jerod and his team have been amazing to work with! They have done a great job with the installation of multiple security cameras on our property. They have gone above and beyond to help us with or provide advice for cable networking issues. Professional, courteous, knowledgeable and dependable. Definitely a top contender in the telecommunications field.
- Stephanie S.
We at Forest Park Estates (24 units) were very happy with the team installing the wiring for our TDS system. The team worked with efficiency and professionalism. The work took place in attics with very limited headroom and the outside temperature was 90 degrees. Prior to the install we were kept informed as to the scheduling and briefed on what the procedure would entail by Justin Conner. WE were SUPER SATISFIED.
- Louanne R.
Justin was fantastic. He went above and beyond to help us with the install despite a difficult landlord. He stuck it out with us! He also communicated with TDS on our behalf to help get things moving. Thank you for ALL of your help Justin. I appreciate you.
- Rachel L.
Jerod and his team have been amazing to work with! They have done a great job with the installation of multiple security cameras on our property. They have gone above and beyond to help us with or provide advice for cable networking issues. Professional, courteous, knowledgeable and dependable. Definitely a top contender in the telecommunications field.
- Stephanie S.
We at Forest Park Estates (24 units) were very happy with the team installing the wiring for our TDS system. The team worked with efficiency and professionalism. The work took place in attics with very limited headroom and the outside temperature was 90 degrees. Prior to the install we were kept informed as to the scheduling and briefed on what the procedure would entail by Justin Conner. WE were SUPER SATISFIED.
- Louanne R.
Justin was fantastic. He went above and beyond to help us with the install despite a difficult landlord. He stuck it out with us! He also communicated with TDS on our behalf to help get things moving. Thank you for ALL of your help Justin. I appreciate you.
- Rachel L.
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