Tonya Ozone

Newport, VT– April 3rd, 2024 – In a joint venture to develop needed skilled workers,
NEK Broadband and North Country Career Center have created a training program for
Broadband Network Technicians beginning May 8,2024. As NEK Broadband expands
its new fiber optic internet network, technical job openings already exist.
The three-week course will include basic rigging, fiber optics essentials, bucket truck
operations, pole climbing, OSHA training, first aid with CPR and AED, flagging,
leadership and communication. The program is designed to impart both technical skills
and soft skills, ensuring participants are well-prepared to succeed. In Vermont, the
majority of Fiber Optic Technician salaries currently range between $22.98/hour to
$33.46 and often include additional benefits.

To learn about a career in the network construction industry, please attend the
information night, April 17th, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at: North Country Career Center, 209
Veterans Avenue, Newport, Vermont. The fee for the course can be discussed as well as
potential for full financial support. You can learn more and register for the April event
at: https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/adult-courses/broadband-network-construction-technician-training
This strategic partnership between two important Northeast Kingdom organizations
represents a significant step forward toward economic prosperity for the region. The
lack of reliable high-speed internet in underserved areas has created a digital divide
between those who can access education and online work opportunities and those who
can’t.

“We are thrilled to launch this new initiative, which embodies our unwavering
commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. By providing
access to high-quality training, mentorship, and current employment opportunities, we
believe we can help provide a way for people to stay in the Kingdom as they find work
that pays a living wage,” said Christa Shute, NEK Broadband’s Executive Director.
Chris Damato, Assistant Director for Adult Technical Education at North Country
Career Center, points out the need for this training, “There is so much opportunity, both
in the short term with network construction, as well as the long term with ongoing
network maintenance and customer service. Any time there is a power outage, there
may be a broadband outage and similar to electrical line workers, broadband network
technicians will be out there to restore service to folks who rely on the internet for their
livelihood.”

Other opportunities at North Country Career Center can be found at
https://nc3.ncsuvt.org/home, or contact Chris Damato at 802-334-5469 X3305

About NEK Broadband

NEK Broadband is a community-driven organization working to ensure every resident
in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont has access to high-speed internet. Affordable
internet is central to creating greater economic prosperity and educational opportunities
for today’s residents and for future generations. NEK Broadband is a Communications
Union District (CUD) representing every town in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans
counties, plus Wolcott in Lamoille county.
Visit our website to learn more about the career opportunities we offer.
www.nekbroadband.org/careers/