Mentoring the Next Generation of Network Technicians
ICN has teamed up with the Ottumwa Job Corps Centerβs Network Cable Installation (NCI) program to provide an exclusive mentoring opportunity for students. The program provides interaction between young adults and telecom manufacturers, installation, and service providers.
Students hear from industry experts explaining outside plant work, fiber optic cabling, network troubleshooting, facilities, and more. In addition, the program highlights the partnerships that the ICN has with the private sector, give exposure to projects that rely on the statewide fiber optic network, provide infrastructure knowledge, and incorporate cybersecurity practices.
Testimonials About the Program
The Peer to Career Program will provide an invaluable pathway to success, offering hands-on experiences and exposure to the world of telecommunications and networking. Our students will have the chance to learn directly from ICN experts and their network of employers, regarding gaining practical skills and industry knowledge that will set them up for long-term career growth. - Lindsay Cale, Center Director
Networking with telecommunications professionals and individuals in diverse IT disciplines is highly beneficial to Job Corps trainees in the Network Cable Installation (NCI) program. These networking links inspire their imagination, create mentorship opportunities, and provide direction and support throughout their careers. - Dan Whelan, NCI Instructor
Industry Expert Support
Our industry experts meet with the students on the second Monday of each month. Below is a recap of the topics and telecom knowledge discussed.
- Internal ICN groups covered a wide range of topics like the history of the ICN, our network, public/private partnerships, security measures, and discussions on broadband technology.
- Fiberutilities Network Services educated the students on the essential training required for a successful career in the network services industry. Their expertise shed light on the various training programs accessible to those pursuing this path, emphasizing the significance of honing soft skills in the workplace.
- KLK Construction and our ICN outside plant team lead the conversation with the students about drilling, splicing, trenching, and the importance of fiber optics in shaping the future. They also discussed the exciting prospects of network and construction jobs.
- RHT Technologies placed a strong emphasis on the value of technicians and installers working together. They also discussed how to run a small company in Iowa with a close-knit group of employees, emphasizing relationship- and team-building.
- Panduit discussed the importance of infrastructure in a connected world with the students, emphasizing the career opportunities and innovative products in the field. They also showcased how careers and products work together to shape the future, and highlighted the diverse installations and projects they work on for clients in various industries.
- Iowa Dept. of Homeland Security & Emergency Management emphasized the importance of being prepared for emergencies and how our partnership strengthens the connection between emergency services and the people of Iowa. They also discussed ways to improve the quality of life for residents and create stronger, more resilient communities.
- Microsoft (West Des Moines datacenter) delved into the realm of data center careers, shedding light on their operations and why they like to build in Iowa. They talked about how there's a wide variety of career opportunities within a data center and how all of them work together to make things run smoothly.
- Lumen discussed the technician positions they offer, their core values, and stressed the significance of leaving a positive impression. They dug deeper into the various roles and duties within the company, highlighting the abundance of opportunities available to match each individual's skills and interests.
- Fortinet explored the intricacies of the cybersecurity sector and provided valuable tips about starting a career. They also explored the threat landscape, delving deeper into topics such as ransomware, cloud vulnerabilities, supply chain attacks, and more.
- Lightedge Solutions
- FirstNet / AT&T
- Meta
Contact Lori Larsen for questions about the program.