Central Ohio Broadband and 5G
The “Central Ohio Broadband and 5G Regional Node” is part of Ohio’s initiative to enhance broadband and 5G infrastructure across the state. Ohio has established six regional hubs, or nodes, each comprising a four-year university, a two-year community college, a local workforce development board, and a community action agency.
These nodes are designed to implement Ohio’s broadband and 5G strategy at the local level, focusing on career awareness, education and training programs, and leveraging funding to reduce participants’ education and training costs.
In Central Ohio, our collaborative effort aims to support the implementation of Ohio’s broadband and 5G strategy across 11 counties. The Center on Education and Training for Employment at The Ohio State University serves as the university partner for this node, assisting with setting the overall project vision, goals, and deliverables. For more information, please contact: Traci Lepicki
Training Partners
Program Partners
Training and Education for Careers
The Central Ohio Broadband and 5G Regional Node is part of Ohio’s initiative to expand broadband and 5G infrastructure while developing a skilled workforce for the industry.
By establishing these regional nodes, Ohio aims to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting the expansion and maintenance of broadband and 5G infrastructure, thereby enhancing high-speed internet access for businesses, schools, and families throughout the state.
Programs Available in Central Ohio Region
The initiative provides affordable training programs, industry certifications, and hands-on learning opportunities to prepare individuals for high-demand jobs in network installation, maintenance, and telecommunications.
Broadband Infrastructure Training Program
This program prepares students for careers such as a fiber optic cable installer, broadband equipment installation technician, fiber optic splicing technician trainee, and broadband equipment troubleshooter.
Participants will have the opportunity to obtain four industry-Recognized Credentials:
- Certified Premises Cabling Technician (Fiber Optics Association)
- Certified Fiber Optic Technician (Fiber Optics Association)
- OSHA-10
- First Aid/CPR
Currently being offered free to those that are eligible. To apply, complete the application found on the Ohio Means Jobs – Franklin County website.
Employers
The Central Ohio region is working with local employers of all sizes across the telecom industry to shape workforce training. These employers help design training programs based on their needs—whether they provide internet services, build and manage digital networks, or specialize in data centers and fiber installation.
If you’re interested in joining our Regional Employer Advisory Committee or participating in an upcoming hiring event, contact us at cete-broadband@osu.edu to learn more!