Pursuing FOA Certification

 fiber optic certification training near meAs copper cables are increasingly replaced with fiber optic technology, the demand for trained fiber optic technicians increases. Some fiber optic technicians learn the trade while on the job, but if you want to give yourself a competitive edge, then pursuing certification is the way to go. A certification course provides you with all the basic skills you need to become an expert fiber optic technician. Read on to learn what’s involved.

Pursuing FOA Certification

The FOA is the international Fiber Optic Association. The FOA is the standard bearer when it comes to assessing and teaching best practices with fiber optics. There are two ways to become certified with the FOA. One way is to pursue training at an FOA approved school. These are schools that offer fiber optics courses that meet FOA standards and are taught by experienced fiber optic technicians who are members of the FOA. After completing this training and proving that you have a firm grasp of the skills, knowledge, and abilities required by the FOA, you are granted a fiber optic technician certification.

Another way to pursue certification is to complete a “Work to Cert” program. This program is aimed towards fiber optic technicians already working in the field who do not have certification. If they can prove that they have a firm grasp of the skills, knowledge, and abilities required by the FOA, they are granted certification.

Types of FOA Certifications

The FOA offers Industry-Based Certifications (IBC), which means that they are exam-based, administered and accredited by third parties, and developed by the private sector. IBCs have more validity than popular do-it-yourself education or online education because the standards are set by an authority and they are based in proven skill. The FOA offers two basic fiber optic technician certifications, along with specialist certifications:

• CFOT: The Certified Fiber Optic Technician certification proves that you have a general knowledge of fiber optics that can be applied to almost any situation.
• CPCT: The Certified Premises Cabling Technician certification shows an expertise in installing fiber, copper, and wireless in building and campus networks. This certification is recommended for those working in enterprise networks (LANs) and building security and management systems.
• CFOS: The Certified Fiber Optic Specialist certifications are divided into two categories: skills-based and applications-based. Skills-based certifications focus on installation and testing of fiber optic cabling, while applications-based certifications focus on specific applications of fiber optic cabling.

Get in Touch with FiberPlus!

FiberPlus has been providing data communication services for a number of different markets through fiber optics since 1992. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a top telecommunications business that can provide the Richmond, VA, Columbus, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, Baltimore, MD, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia areas with a number of different services. These services now include:

• Structured Cabling
• Electronic Security Systems
• Distributed Antenna Systems
• Audio/Visual Services
• Support Services
• Specialty Systems
• Design/Build Services

FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.

Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page.