APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS

Telecommunications Installer-Technicians

Telecommunications
Installer-Technicians

 
Telecommunications Installer-Technicians install circuits and equipment for telephones, computer networks, video distribution systems, security and access control systems, and other low voltage systems. Major duties for Telecommunications Installer-Technicians include:

  • Planning and Initiating Projects
  • Installing Underground Voice or Data Circuit Feeders to Entrance Facilities
  • Providing or Connecting to the Grounding Electrode System
  • Installing Pathways and Spaces for Installation of Low Voltage Wiring
  • Installing and Terminating Wires and Cables
  • Installing Local Area Network (LAN) Cabling Systems
  • Installing Security and Access Control Systems
  • Installing Communications and Sound Distribution Systems
  • Testing and Repairing Video, Voice, and Data Systems

In performing these duties, Telecommunications Installer Technicians must use many different kinds of tools, ranging from simple ones and two-hand tools (such as screwdrivers and cable cutters) to power-assisted tools like electric drills and screw guns. They occasionally operate heavy equipment such as trenchers.

Telecommunications Installer-Technicians

Over the course of the three-year Telecommunications Installer- Technicians apprenticeship program, apprentices must become competent in many technical areas. A recent job analysis identified 124 specific areas of knowledge that are important for Telecommunications Installer-Technicians’ job performance. A few of the most important ones are knowledge of:

  • Color Codes (Proper Termination Sequence)
  • Structured Wiring
  • Cable Testing Requirements and Standards
  • Local Area Networks (LAN)
  • The Basics of Telephony
  • Blueprints, Including Symbols Used
  • Electronic Industries Association (EIA)/Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) Standards
  • The Principles of Grounding
  • First Aid
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Proper Wire/Cable to Use in Different Circumstances

Some of the most important skills to be learned are:
 

  • Skill at Terminating Twisted Pair Cable
  • Skill at Terminating Fiber Optic Cable
  • Skill at Troubleshooting Through Segmentation and Isolation
  • Skill at Diagnosing the Source of Equipment Malfunctions
  • Skill at Splicing Copper, Coaxial and Fiber Optic Cable
  • Skill at Performing CPR