Media Contact:
Laura Byrnes, APR, CPRC
Director of Communications
Office: 352.291.9559 | Mobile: 352.816.1264
[email protected]
OCALA, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2025) – CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion has expanded its free Creating Connections training for those interested in a variety of high-paying, in-demand careers in telecommunications infrastructure.
The Creating Connections project is designed to help provide broadband access for approximately 70,000 residents and businesses in rural counties in need of high-speed internet.
It is available at no charge to residents of Levy, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Madison, Suwanee, Taylor, and Union counties.
Immediate training begins Feb. 24 for fiber-optics technicians and installers with a one-week boot camp at the College of Central Florida Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 U.S. Hwy 19 north of Chiefland.
Participants receive hands-on training with patch panels, fiber optic cable and test equipment as well as the opportunity to earn three industry standard certifications which typically cost $2,785. The program also provides wrap-around supportive services such as travel assistance, uniforms, and required tools of the trade.
In addition to the fiber optics boot camp, the program now includes training for CDL drivers/telecommunications equipment operators, network techs and IT specialists, and project management.
Funding for Creating Connections comes from a $1.73 million grant that is part of the federal Building Pathways to Infrastructure Jobs program. The program is administered by CareerSource CLM in collaboration with CareerSource North Florida and CareerSource North Central Florida.
Averages annual wages for telecommunications are $48,000, 10.5% higher than the area average.
“Beyond the workforce component, this enhanced connectivity and access provides additional options for existing residents and prospective residents, as well as businesses, in helping rural and underserved communities grow,” said Michele Schulze, CareerSource CLM’s Creating Connections grant coordinator.
The fiber optics training is conducted by BDI DataLynk, a standards-based company offering Fiber Optic Association (FOA) sanctioned fiber optics network technician training. FOA is the largest professional society of fiber optics in the world.
Residents of Levy, Dixie, Gilchrist and other eligible counties who are interested in enrolling in the program or learning more should call 800-434-JOBS, ext. 4206 or email [email protected].
###
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is a member of CareerSource Florida and a proud partner of the American Job Center network. CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is supported by the U.S. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and other agencies as part of awards totaling $15.4 million (revised annually). Unless otherwise stipulated, all statements, news releases, requests for proposals, bid solicitations and other applicable documents are fully funded from federal sources.
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities and in Spanish. All voice telephone numbers listed above may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711. If you need accommodations, call 800-434-5627, ext. 7878 or e-mail [email protected]. Please make request at least three business days in advance. Stay connected with CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.