As the KentuckyWired middle-mile fiber network is nearing completion, The Center for Rural Development is also taking action to support the implementation of last-mile fiber services in Kentucky. The Center sponsored fiber education for last-mile service providers and industry professionals as they prepare for their use of the wholesale services provided by KentuckyWired. Through a partnership with KCTCS a Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) class was offered at the Somerset Community College, London campus.
The CFOT training class dealt with an introduction to both fiber and the application in the industry. Course goals were to gain a basic understanding of fiber optic’s functions/applications in the premise and outside plant. The class consisted of 20% Classroom and 80% hands-on lab application.
Course outcomes included identifying different types of fiber and their applications, safety in handling fiber and fiber preparation, and preparing and applying Straight Tip (ST) connectors by epoxy and anaerobic adhesive. Additionally, the students learned about testing fiber optic cable and connectors both visually and optical loss with Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS), as well as different types of splices and their application and long line test with an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR). The course also covered network design and budget loss analysis and installation procedures for fiber in both premise and outside plant applications.
The Center provided this training to 12 individuals, all of whom passed the exams and received their Fiber Optics Association (FOA) certificates. The mission of The Center is to positively impact the communities within 45 counties of Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Through supporting the implementation of KentuckyWired infrastructure, The Center is working to close the digital divide. Those interested in learning more about broadband training opportunities are encouraged to contact The Center at broadbandinfo@centertech.com or 606-677-6000 or visit www.centertech.com.
