Telecommunications

The telecommunications industry is at the forefront of the information age - delivering voice, data, graphics, and video at ever increasing speeds and in an increasing number of ways. Whereas wireline telephone communication was once the primary service of the industry, wireless communication services, and cable satellite program distribution make up an increasing share of the industry.

The largest sector of the telecommunications industry continues to be made up of wired telecommunications carriers. Establishments in this sector mainly provide telephone service via wires, and cable that connect customers' premises to central offices maintained by equipment that routes content to its final destination or to another switching center that determines the most efficient route for the content to take. While voice used to be the main type of data transmitted over the wires, wired telecommunications service now includes the transmission of all types of graphic, video, and electronic data mainly over the Internet.

  • Telecommunications includes voice, video, and Internet communications services.
  • With rapid technological changes in telecommunications, those with up-to-date technical skills will have the best job opportunities.
  • Average weekly earnings of non-supervisory workers in the telecommunications industry were $853 in 2004, significantly higher than average earnings of $529 in private industry.

The telecommunications industry offers employment in jobs requiring a variety of skills and training. Many jobs require at least a high school diploma or an associate degree in addition to on-the-job training. Other jobs require particular skills that may take several years of experience to learn completely. For some managerial and professional jobs, employers require a college education.

Major Units of Study

  • Electronics fundamentals of telecommunications
  • Learn to apply safety procedures
  • Computer Technology Integration
  • Understand PC internals and troubleshooting methods
  • Learn how a telephone system works
  • Define telecommunications concepts
  • Structured wiring and different types of wires
  • Learn TCP/IP concepts
  • Computer are internet integration
  • Networking fundamentals and routing
  • Learn the internet topology
  • Design & construct printed circuit boards
  • Demonstrate proper use of hand tools and electronics soldering equipment
  • Measure electrical quantities, i.e. volts, amps, watts.
  • Explore interrelationship between computers and communication technology
  • Learn the concepts of DSL and ISDN.
  • Learn how the connection between your computer and internet is possible through your telephone/cable line
  • Understand satellite operation
  • Practice cabling and splicing
  • SkillsUSA and FIRST Robotics youth organizations

Due to the rapid introduction of new technologies and services, the telecommunications industry is among the most rapidly changing in the economy. This means workers must keep their job skills up to date. From managers to communications equipment operators, increased knowledge of both computer hardware and software is of paramount importance. Several major companies and the telecommunications unions have created a Web site that provides free training for employees, enabling them to keep their knowledge current and helping them to advance. Telecommunications industry employers now look for workers with knowledge of and skills in computer programming and software design; voice telephone technology, known as telephony; laser and fiber optic technology; wireless technology; and data compression.