Rural ISP CTC partners with CWA to implement Broadband Apprenticeship Program in the Upper Midwest

CTC, a full-service telecommunications company in Minnesota partnered with CWA to create the first broadband-centered apprenticeship for the states of Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota, and North Dakota.

Communications Workers of America Broadband JATC-Upper Midwest has been officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) as a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) sponsor and approved by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry Division of Apprenticeship. 

“As states continue to receive historic federal funding towards a nationwide broadband buildout, it’s critical that we have well-trained broadband technicians leading this work. CWA’s joint apprenticeship program will help lay that groundwork by developing highly-skilled broadband workers in Minnesota and the upper midwest,” said CWA District 7 Vice President Susie McAllister. “At CWA, we know what it means to build broadband right, and we’re excited to be helping new workers enter the field, while creating good jobs and boosting local economies.”

This apprenticeship will provide on-the-job, instructor-led, and online training to employees new to the telecommunications industry who want to pursue a career as a Broadband Technician. The program will provide recipients with instruction on industry standards, equipment installation, troubleshooting, and safety training.

“CTC is proud to be partnering with the CWA to build the first Broadband Technician Apprenticeship Program in the region. Having access to this program and curriculum will allow us to hire workers with limited experience to become fully trained first-level technicians. This program opens opportunities for high school students wanting to go directly into the workforce post-graduation or for displaced workers to learn a new trade while being properly trained,” shared CTC CEO/GM Kristi Westbrock. 

Links:

CTC partners with CWA to implement CWA Broadband JATC-Upper Midwest Apprenticeship Program (CWA, September 10, 2024)