BICSI, the trade association dedicated to advancing the information and communications technology (ICT) profession, on March 31 announced the release of its newly revised ICT Cabling Installation Program.
The revised ICT Cabling Installation Program is comprised of a technical manual, four progressive courses, and four subsequent certification exams. All course and certification exam content is based on BICSI's Information Technology Systems Installation Methods Manual (ITSIMM). As the cornerstone of the program, the ITSIMM is written by a team of skilled subject matter experts and is based on the latest ICT standards and best practices to produce the highest quality cabling installation projects.
BICSI notes the program offers hands-on and application-focused training as well as a tier of certifications. These are based on standards-based best practices and chart a clear career path, accommodating all skill levels from beginner to expert installation experience. As described by BICSI, the program's certifications are as follows:
- Installer 1 (INST1) - For those with little to no experience in structured cabling installation, IN101: BICSI Installer 1 Training provides installers with the background knowledge and skills needed to function safely and effectively on the job and in accordance with the requirements, recommendations, and best practices. Passing the Installer 1 exam will award a non-renewable certificate distinguishing the individual as a BICSI Installer 1 (INST1).
- Installer 2, Copper (INSTC) - Next in the Installation career path is copper cabling training. IN225: Installer 2, Copper Training gives students a thorough look at the installation, termination and testing of copper cable. This includes copper transmission principles and general safety practices associated with copper cabling. Those passing the Installer 2, Copper examination will be awarded the BICSI Installer 2, Copper (INSTC) certification.
- Installer 2, Optical Fiber (INSTF) - Installers progressing along this career path in the industry can then pursue the Installer 2, Optical Fiber (INSTF) certification. IN250: Installer 2, Optical Fiber Training gives students the knowledge needed to pull, terminate, splice, and test fiber cabling. The course includes topics on fiber transmission principles and general safety practices associated with working with fiber cabling.
- Technician (TECH) - Progressing along the Installation career path will bring individuals to the Technician (TECH) certification. TE350: Technician Training helps learners make a smooth transition from being an individual contributing team member to leading a crew in a supervisor capacity. This course includes modules on cable termination, splicing, testing, and troubleshooting, as well as covering topics such as bonding and grounding (earthing), firestopping practices, and project management.
Once technicians achieve the TECH certification, their career path can continue to advance with additional BICSI certifications such as the Registered Telecommunications Project Manager (RTPM) or Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD).
The demand for certification
According to an August 2021 report by Allied Market Research cited by BICSI, the global structured cabling market size was valued at $10.62 billion in 2020, and is projected to reach $20.88 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 7.4% from 2021 to 2030. BICSI rightly observes that with this increase in structured cabling projects, comes a heightened need for professionally trained cabling installers and technicians.
BICSI in its statement announcing the program further contends that the association's "reputation as the preeminent resource for the connected world solidifies the globally recognized Installation Program as the best option for industry employers to train their employees, as well as for the next generation of ICT professionals looking to begin a rewarding career."
The trade association further points out that BICSI certifications are in high demand to grow an individual's personal career and earning potential, and that employers seek out BICSI-certified ICT professionals for their subject matter expertise on structured cabling projects. As many scopes of work call specifically for BICSI-certified individuals to be included as part of the project bid, certifications are a symbol of a professional's demonstrated expertise in the design and/or installation of ICT systems. Therefore, the association emphasized the importance of certification as a hard-earned achievement gained through rigorous training and study of courses and associated publications produced by BICSI.
"BICSI is super excited to release this updated program and begin certifying the future cabling professionals of the world on the latest trends and technologies," commented BICSI CEO John H. Daniels, CNM, FACHE, FHIMSS. "BICSI's certification process starts with our best-in-class training programs that provide the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to help emerging and current ICT professionals thrive in the rapidly evolving connected world."
Courses and certification exams are being held both in person and virtually. More information about BICSI's ICT Cabling Installation Program can be found at bicsi.org/installation.
