WIA Launches New Education and Training Program for Wireless Telecommunications Industry

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) today announced the creation of the Telecommunications Education Center (TEC), a new program and online portal that aims to provide the wireless telecommunications industry with a series of education and training courses with the goal of building a stronger and more diverse workforce.

TEC (www.tec-online.org) aims to improve safety and quality, reduce costs of wireless infrastructure deployment and address existing skills gaps to meet the needs of companies deploying next-generation network technologies. Subjects introduced in the initial phase of TEC courses will cover wireless fundamentals and include: Wireless 101; Macrocellular Infrastructure; Small Cells and DAS; WiFi; and 5G. TEC courses also can be customized to meet organization-specific onboarding, professional development and training needs.

"The wireless industry and the technological demands of our complex mobile networks are rapidly evolving," said Jonathan Adelstein, President and CEO of WIA. "The Telecommunications Education Center is the first comprehensive initiative of its kind for the wireless industry. TEC will provide a host of professional development and training programs designed to empower individuals and strengthen companies within our industry."

TEC courses will be delivered through traditional classroom instruction, in-the-field training, and online interactions. WIA worked with academia, its members, subject matter experts, and education consultants to develop the courses and the manner in which those courses will be delivered.

WIA, which also partnered with Virginia State University to pilot the program, will work closely with the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP), the U.S. Department of Labor, and the Federal Communications Commission to provide applicable contact hours earned with course and training completion.

"We are collaborating with the best and brightest to create a dynamic educational and training curriculum that will have a direct and lasting impact for years to come," said Tim House, Executive Vice President of WIA. "The most valuable assets within the wireless industry are the professionals who work daily to develop, deploy and maintain our mobile networks. We are committed to enhancing their professional development and training opportunities so that they are inspired to learn, grow and advance their careers."

About The Wireless Infrastructure Association

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA), formerly known as PCIA, represents the companies that build, design, own and manage telecommunications facilities throughout the world. Its more than 230 members include infrastructure providers, wireless carriers, equipment manufacturers, and professional services firms. The association produces the Wireless Infrastructure Show and HetNet Expo each year.

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