Fibre optic installation and repair is a vital and much sought after skill in a world which is so heavily reliant on the constant flow of data. So it was a great opportunity for students when Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE) recently hosted two Fusion Splicing Certificate Courses.
The courses were run in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, which offered free training on cutting-edge technologies and equipment.
Approximately 60 individuals took part in the courses which included a networking event to connect students and potential employers, and a fibre optic fusion splicing certificate at the end of the programme.
The Director of Infrastructure Operations for AWS in Ireland, Neil Morris, said: “AWS has long believed in the power of up-skilling our current and potential employees. It delivers for the communities in which we operate and provides a larger pool of potential employees for both AWS and the industry generally.”
“Through the AWS Fusion Splicing Course, we’re thrilled to help open new opportunities and career pathways for participants. Technicians skilled in installing and repairing fibre optics will be prepared to perform the critical jobs building the infrastructure needed to wire the country for the digital world.”
DIFE Principal, Davy McDonnell, described the collaboration between DIFE, AWS, and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave as “a fantastic example of industry and education working together to deliver training in an emerging technology for Drogheda and the surrounding region”.
He said: “The successful delivery of the course in DIFE provided participants in the Drogheda community with a unique opportunity to develop the relevant skills to secure in-demand jobs in Ireland while also providing a platform for employers to network with potential employees, creating career pathways and an opportunity to jump-start a career in technology for those involved.
“DIFE is committed to facilitate the delivery of skills-based courses and professional development opportunities for prospective learners and employees in the region and will continue to identify new programmes to support the development of local people.”
Local TD Fergus O’Dowd, who attended the certificate presentation ceremony, said: “This is a truly outstanding example of community collaboration between DIFE working alongside Amazon Web Services and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.
“The installation and repair of fibre optic cables is clearly going to be a major element of the emerging digital world we live in. Drogheda and DIFE are leading the way in preparing our workforce in cutting edge technologies.
“This collaboration has gone above and beyond to make this free course accessible to over 60 local technicians, which will ensure more jobs locally in the fibre optic sector.
“My sincerest thanks to DIFE, AWS and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave for delivering this course, and a massive congratulations to all of the participants who have successfully completed the course.”
To learn more about the AWS Fibre Optic Fusion Splicing Course, visit AWS Fusion Splicing Certificate website.
