As fiber optics systems are increasingly adopted in telecommunications, it’s more important than ever to have at least one certified employee who can install, maintain, repair or scale fiber optics networks. You may have a knowledgeable workforce but they may not be able to perform certain tasks if they lack the certifications required by the industry. The Fiber Optics Installer certification training may help address the shortfalls and prepare your employees for more advanced tasks.

What is the FOI certification About?

The Fiber Optics Installers (FOI) certification offered by the Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) is a credential designed for fiber optic technicians. It is for individuals trained in the practice of installing, maintaining, and scaling fiber optics cabling systems. FOI certification requires training or hands-on experience, knowledge, and examination.

The exam focuses on a general understanding of practical knowledge and basic theories of fiber optics technologies. The certification identifies fiber optics installers as individuals able to demonstrate an understanding of fiber optics theory, standards, practices, and codes accepted in the fiber optics industry.

Candidates are also expected to be familiar with fiber optics cables, connectors, building blocks of optical network, and slice performance characteristics. FOI technicians must be able to perform mechanical and fusion splicing and must be proficient in the installation of connectors. Candidates must pass a written exam to demonstrate knowledge and experience.

What are Some of the Pre-Requisites?

Required pre-requisites before sitting for the exam include a special course and hands-on-training from an ETA-approved school. Subjects that Fiber Optics Installers are expected to learn before sitting for the FOI certification written exam include:

• Fiber Optics and Broadband Access
• Principles of Fiber Optic Transmission
• Fiber Construction and Light
• Optical Fiber Characteristics
• Fiber Optics Cable
• Fiber Optics Safety
• Connectors
• Splicing
• Fiber Optics Light Sources
• Cable Installation and Hardware
• Fiber Optics Detectors and Receivers
• Test Equipment and Cable/Link Testing
• Fiber Optic System Advantages

The Benefits of a Formal Training Program

It may not make much sense to invest in a certification-training program for your employees if you don’t know how your company will benefit from that investment. Formal training introduces learners to the basic components and theory of fiber optics, major features of the systems, and industry terms.

Students learn all aspects of installation and operation of fiber optics systems. They also learn how to troubleshoot and repair systems when data is not being transmitted as expected. Your employees will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to splice and terminate cables when upgrading existing networks or installing new ones.

Not all employees will need training in order to pass their exams for the FOI certification. Some of your employees may already have advanced education or a strong background and may only need to briefly review the study materials provided by the ETA to pass the exam. While there are many ways you could use to ensure your employees pass the certification examinations, enrolling them in a course improves the pass rate and helps them to be more likely to pass the examinations.

Formal training equips your workforce with the knowledge and skills needed to be a proficient installer. In addition, the program incorporates hands-on training validating skills needed in the fiber optics industry, including cable preparations, fiber terminations, optical loss testing, fusion splicing, and more. Whether it’s in an online course or traditional classroom setting, training is an inexpensive way to improve your employees’ pass rate and prepare them to work on fiber optics projects as soon as possible.

Importance of Having FOI Certified Employees

FOI training and certification results in increased reliability. This occurs when employees are able to follow the methods and rules appropriate for the installation of a specific fiber optics product. Reliability significantly reduces when there are subtle errors in installation, such as bend radius violations or inadequate adhesive in connectors. Being certified shows that your employees have achieved certain criteria for performance and have the skills and knowledge needed to reliably install, maintain, and repair fiber optics networks.

If your business offers fiber optics installation and repair services, having your team FOI certified can improve your marketing and set you apart from the competition. Also, having certified employees reduces costs by reducing errors and the time required to complete tasks. You can be sure that your employees keep the highest standards of professionalism and are up to date with trends in the industry.

Is Fiber Optics Installer Certification (FOI) Right for Your Company?

If you’re a forward-thinking manager who wants to leverage formal fiber optics certification program and position your company for maximum growth, having certified employees may be easier than you think. The Fiber Optics Installer Certification course at Infotec is designed to give learners the skills to help them work with fiber optics systems. Connect with Infotec today to learn how our in-person and online training program can improve outcomes for your workplace.