This fall, Georgia Southern University’s Division of Continuing Education is offering career-building certified fiber optic technician and specialist fast-track courses at the Coastal Georgia Center, in Savannah, Georgia. Participants are provided the option to take two or three fiber optics courses during the weeklong training.       

The need for trained certified fiber optic technicians in the U.S. has grown significantly over the past five years. The demand for high-speed, broadband internet has increased, and the need for a reliable and secure method of transporting data has become a necessity.                                    

In partnership with BDI Datalink, the University will offer three certification courses in fiber optics technology. The Fiber Optic Association reports that most certified fiber optics technicians work in the fiber optics industry as contractors or installers. Consultants, network designers and managers, component manufacturing technicians, estimators and trainers are increasingly expected to be certified. The courses provided through the University prepare participants for the broad-based FOA exam that requires verified skills in fiber optics and covers technology, components, installation and testing.

Daily coursework for all classes involves hands-on activities, discussion and chapter tests.  All courses end with the related FOA certification exam, included in the course fee. Each course fee also includes study materials, a CD, and the textbook FOA Reference Guide to Fiber Optics by Jim Hayes.

During the weeklong training sessions, the Certified Fiber Optics Technician course will be held on Monday, Sept. 28, through Wednesday, Sept. 30, with a course fee of $725. The Certified Fiber Optics Specialist in Testing and Maintenance course will be held on Thursday, Sept. 31, and  Friday, Oct. 1, with a course fee of $700. The Certified Fiber Optics Specialist in Splicing course will be held Saturday, Oct. 2, and Sunday, Oct. 3, and costs $750. Registration for all courses closes Monday, Sept. 14.

To register, call 912-478-5551 or visit the website. For more information, e-mail [email protected].