Building and maintaining America’s wireless networks is an endeavor that continues to create thousands of jobs. Recruiters and hiring managers say that these jobs are best filled by team players who know how to lead as well as follow, respect procedure, and perform well under pressure. They also say that U.S. military veterans typically possess all these attributes. What they may not possess is adequate knowledge about wireless technology or safe tower climbing techniques.
Training is the bridge that closes the gap between what veterans bring to employers and what employers need. On Veteran’ Day this year, wireless industry leaders gathered to salute a training program that focuses on bridging that gap. GrayWolves Telecom of Texas was honored for creating a wireless training program for veterans.
“We’re honored to help build the wireless network of the future,” said former U.S. Army command Sgt. Maj. Angel Ramos. “The GrayWolves program has given us job security and the chance to pursue meaningful careers.” Ramos is now part of Warriors 4 Wireless, an organization that helps veterans find jobs in the wireless industry. He received his training from the GrayWolves program.
“That’s what our program is all about – to help fill that void and give our veterans the career training they’ve earned for helping keep this country strong and free,” said GrayWolves CEO Lisa Hanlon.
Wireless infrastructure providers are ready to invest in training veterans because the military has already done the heavy lifting by instilling on-the-job habits that fit the demands of the wireless industry. Recruiters say that veterans are fast learners, team players, and are safety conscious as well as technically proficient.
“Military veterans are a great source of qualified workers for our industry,” said Monty West, EVP at Goodman Networks. “We are doubling our efforts at Goodman to train and hire veterans.”
PCIA – The Wireless Infrastructure Association – is working hard to help veterans find jobs in wireless fields. The Department of Labor is funding two college-based wireless training programs, and has asked PCIA to help create curriculum and standards for future training programs at other schools.
“We will give a new generation of veterans the chance to develop career-changing skills in our expanding industry,” said PCIA President and CEO Jonathan Adelstein. “We’re developing a broad-based training program designed to meet employer demand across a range of specialties, including tower systems, DAS and small cells, site acquisition, project management and RF design.”
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