Building Tomorrow: Laurel Ridge's Fiber Optic Installer Program

In this episode, host Janet Michael welcomes Guy Curtis, the Director of Marketing for Laurel Ridge Community College, and Samantha Brill, a Program Manager for Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions. They discuss the college's new Fiber Optic Installer program. This program addresses the growing demand for fiber optic installers due to the expansion of data centers and the need for high-speed internet infrastructure. Guy and Sam elaborate on the increasing visibility of fiber optic installation projects along highways and neighborhoods, emphasizing the high demand for skilled workers in this field. They highlight that jobs in this sector are well-paying and plentiful, with room for career growth. Sam explains how the program is structured, noting that it lasts five to six weeks and is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and certification to start work immediately. The classes are hands-on and held two nights a week at the Fauquier campus in a fully equipped fiber lab. The conversation then shifts to funding options. Guy and Janet discuss financial aid like the Fast Forward and G3 funding programs that significantly reduce the cost of the course, making it highly accessible. Towards the end of the episode, they talk about who would benefit from the program – anyone who enjoys working outdoors and problem-solving. Sam notes that no previous experience is needed, making it an entry point for many career seekers. The episode concludes with details on how listeners can register for the program and mentions an additional opportunity for ongoing education and advanced certifications in fiber optics. Furthermore, Janet and Guy briefly discuss Laurel Ridge's upcoming 5K event to support the college's foundation.