Join the Broadband Revolution: Workforce Training Programs in #YesWV
Big investments in broadband infrastructure are occurring throughout West Virginia. West Virginia workers have an opportunity to be part of one of the largest federally funded infrastructure investments in State history.
The West Virginia Department of Economic Development, Office of Broadband, is tasked with deploying local and federal broadband funds, including $1.2 billion in federal funding for broadband development in West Virginia. This historic investment in broadband infrastructure will support West Virginia’s vision to achieve universal broadband access.
Investment, however, can do little without the hard work of individuals. Now, there are new opportunities for workers to access broadband industry-specific training to secure a great job and contribute to connecting West Virginia. Learn more about Careers in Broadband in West Virginia
What are broadband jobs?
The broadband industry is growing! The skills needed to construct and maintain broadband infrastructure are in high demand. The industry offers a wide range of opportunities in an environment driven by innovation and technology. Broadband careers include the following areas:
Construction and Maintenance, Outside Plant
Customer Service Representatives (Phone, Text, Social, and In-Person)
Cybersecurity Policy, Implementation, and Monitoring
Engineering, including Radio Frequency, Structural, and Network Engineering
Fiber Optic Network Design (GIS/CAD)
Fiber Optic and Wireless Technicians
Finance and Accounting
Grant Compliance and Contract Administration
Interconnection and Network Traffic Management
Project Management
Regulatory and Legal
Real Estate Management
Safety Training and Monitoring
Sales and Marketing
Utility and Permitting Coordination
Broadband companies in West Virginia
Broadband Training Providers:
Get the latest training in construction, electric engineering, utility maintenance, cybersecurity, and more–all in two years or less. The following entities offer associates degrees, certifications, and apprenticeship opportunities relevant to a career in broadband:
Broadband Industry Growth
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program will soon spur historic investment in both broadband infrastructure expansion and workforce development training. West Virginia’s upcoming Workforce Development Grant Program will soon be available to:
Broadband Industry Associations
Career and Technical Education Institutions
County Boards of Education
Employers
Higher Education Institutions
K-12 Schools and School Districts
Public-Private Partnerships
Workforce Development Organizations
Successful projects will provide a valuable non-degree credential, encourage partnerships between different types of organizations, and support certain wrap-around services for participants. Draft program procedures are available here: Workforce Grant Draft Procedures. For more information, visit broadband.wv.gov.