In the world of telecommunications, the last-mile is often the most critical; it's the final section of the network that connects a provider to the end-user.
To ensure Iowa communities stay connected, ICN partners with various private-sector providers, many of whom participate in our Peer to Career mentoring program.
Recently, Network Cable Installation students at the Ottumwa Job Corps Center heard directly from local experts from OmniTel Communications, Allied (Adesta), and Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association. By engaging with the professionals who manage Iowa’s essential infrastructure, students gain a real-world perspective that no textbook can replicate.
Career Insights from OmniTel Communications
Joining the students in January was Dave Sherlock, a representative from OmniTel Communications who discussed what it takes to thrive in a local exchange environment. His message moved beyond the technical field and focused on the character of a great technician. He emphasized that staying coachable and respecting the experience of veteran technicians is the fastest way to grow.
The session highlighted the importance of being a team player. Whether it’s navigating different work ethics on a job site or communicating clearly with a customer in their home, a technician’s willingness to jump in, regardless of the challenge, is what makes them stand out.
➡️ OmniTel's session highlight on Facebook
Telecom Wisdom from Allied (Adesta)
In February, the team from Allied (Adesta) shared street-smart wisdom gathered from years in the field. Their informative session focused on the high stakes and high rewards of the cabling industry. They started by saying that technical skills can be taught to almost anyone with an interest, but drive and honesty cannot. These qualities are what actually get you hired and keep you in the industry.
A key takeaway was that safety is non-negotiable. In the field, complacency is the enemy. Their team reminded students that protecting yourself and your team is the #1 priority every single day. One shortcut is never worth the risk. They ended by saying that the career ladder in telecommunications is wide. For those who stay persistent, the industry offers a lifetime of upward mobility.
➡️ Allied (Adesta) session highlight on Facebook
Neighborhood Connections from Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association
Our March session featured Marcie Berner, CEO of Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association, who provided an inside look at the world of rural telecommunications. Serving 20 exchanges across north central Iowa, Marcie detailed how the team of 21 employees, including eight technicians, delivers essential fiber-to-the-home services. The cooperative has a unique one-year rotation training system, which ensures technicians are well-rounded in everything from fiber splicing, locating, installation, and troubleshooting.
The discussion involved customer service approaches for technical issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding the customer's perspective and verifying the actual problem before providing solutions. A key point was highlighting the need for clear communication between technicians and customers to help customer service representatives. The session ended noting how technology changes require ongoing adaptation and education for both staff and customers.
➡️ WCCTA's session highlight on Facebook
Why Local Community Connections Matter
At ICN, we are dedicated to strengthening public-private partnerships that bridge the gap for the next generation. Our collaborative sessions with the Ottumwa Job Corps do more than just provide information; they bridge classroom learning and real-world telecommunications careers.
By engaging with our rural broadband providers, the students see how their training can fit into Iowa’s broadband landscape. These students aren't just learning to splice fiber optic cable; they are learning the soft skills and safety protocols required to help keep Iowa connected.
Thank you to OmniTel Communications, Allied (Adesta), and Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association for investing your time and expertise into the next generation of Iowa’s workforce.
Partner with the Next Generation
Help us bridge the gap between the classroom and the field. If your organization is interested in presenting to our Peer to Career students and sharing your expertise, we’d like to hear from you. Reach out to the ICN team at icn.info@iowa.gov.