Cable installers frequently get the training they need on the job or through courses provided by their employers.
However, if you're just thinking about starting your career and don't have a job yet, a training and certification program might be right for you.
These programs, many of which include an online component, are perfect for novices who want to get into cable installation quickly.
Top Online Cable Installation Certification Programs
Read on for more details about some of the best online cable installation certificate programs in the country.
1. Brooklyn Networks
Brooklyn Networks offers a free training program that includes both online classes and hands-on, in-person training in New York City.
The program is competitive and is only open to low-income New York residents who meet the other qualifications.
Online classes are synchronous. The entire program requires a full-time commitment Monday through Friday for six weeks.
After completion of the program, you'll be eligible to sit for the Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) certification exam.
2. CATV Training Institute
The CATV Training Institute offers online training that will prepare you to become a certified cable television (CATV) technician.
The program includes course modules and exams that are available online 24 hours a day, so you can train at your convenience.
While the program is designed primarily for businesses, individuals can enroll in the certification programs as well.
The broadband installer certification course is $149. Other related online training and certification courses are also available.
3. Commscope Infrastructure Academy
Commscope Infrastructure Academy offers six different cabling training courses that are 100% online and asynchronous.
These courses allow you to work at your own pace and provide access to a resource library you can continue to use after course completion.
Certifications you earn through these courses are valid for up to four years and resources are updated frequently.
Choose from the following courses:
- Infrastructure Solutions for Broadband Applications ($95)
- Structured Cabling Infrastructure Design Act III ($295)
- Fiber Optic Infrastructure Specialist ($295)
- Cabling for Smart Buildings ($195)
- Pre Terminated Data Center Solutions ($295)
- Propel Datacenter Connector Fundamentals (free)
4. DASpedia
Through DASpedia, you can become a certified fiber optic technician and earn an industry standard certificate after passing the exam.
While the main portion of the course consists of asynchronous, self-paced online lectures, there is a hands-on component.
After completing the lectures, arrange to attend a two-day hands-on class at the Wireless Training Learning Center in Irvine, California.
The total cost of the program is $1,650. The program is designed both for beginners and experienced installers alike.
5. The Fiber School
The Fiber School offers more than 70 courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of study.
The beginner courses are designed for anyone who is interested in becoming a fiber optic installer.
Many of these courses, including the certified fiber optic installer course, are available in an online, self-paced format.
The online certified fiber optic installer course costs a total of $1,500, plus additional fees for certification. Payment plans are available.
6. Fiber U
Fiber U is a self-study program in basic fiber optics that's available online for free.
While you don't earn any industry certification for completing this course, it's a great way to prepare yourself for a certification course.
The program includes basic information about what fiber optics cable is and what it's used for, as well as the fundamentals of installation.
If you're just considering a career as a cable installer, this is a good course to get your feet wet and decide if this career is right for you.
7. Fluke Networks
Fluke Networks is known for its classroom course and now offers an online course with testing that includes training materials.
While online students don't get any hands-on experience, the program is otherwise identical to the classroom training.
After completing the program and passing the exam, you'll become a Certified Cabling Test Technician (CCTT).
There are 30 day-long units in the course, each of which costs $425. Units are live online and require a full day's commitment.
FAQs About Cable Installation Training and Certification Programs
Keep reading for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about online cable installation training programs.
Can I Get Cable Installation Training Entirely Online?
There are a few cable installation training programs that are offered entirely online, so you can learn at your convenience.
However, many programs include an in-person, hands-on component. Check for this before you sign up for a non-local program.
What Do Cable Installation Programs Cover?
Most cable installation programs cover the basic information about safely installing specific types of cable, including broadband and fiber optic.
Training programs also teach you how to troubleshoot basic cable installation problems and maintain cable systems.
What's the Best Cable Installation Certification to Get?
There are both industry-wide certifications and specific manufacturer certifications available.
Choose an industry-wide certification first, especially if you haven't started working yet. Then move on to manufacturer certifications.
How Long Does It Take to Earn Cable Installation Certification?
Many certification programs can be completed in just a couple of weeks, with some taking as long as six weeks.
Because a lot of the online programs are self-paced, you can learn when it's convenient for you while still working full time.
Find the Right School for Cable Installation Training Today
If you're ready to start a career as a cable installer, choose a virtual training and certification course to learn the basics.
