In this episode of the Cabling Podcast, CI&M senior editor Matt Vincent sits down with Yonah Camacho Diamond, Organizing Coordinator for Communications Workers of America District 9 (CWA District 9) in California to discuss the award of a $5.8 million grant to expand an apprenticeship training program for fiber technicians at the existing CWA training center in San Jose, and at three additional sites across the state.
The new program designation for fiber splicing technicians is intended to support the state's federally funded fiber broadband rollout expansion, as part of the BEAD Program. The grant will offer an employer boot camp program as a recruiting tool, where prospective employers can experience the apprenticeship program. CWA is also pursuing funding to reimburse employers for apprentice wages and benefits, and is assisting with providing tools and PPE for program participants.
