TIRAP (Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprentice Program) provides Department of Labor (DOL) credentialed apprenticeship programs
What is TIRAP? Watch the latest episode of Inside Telecom Careers program, hosted by Karla Macias and Jeff Mucci, as they discuss and view a recent interview with Jonathan Adelstein, CEO for PCIA – The Wireless Infrastructure Association.
Details of TIRAP remain sketchy, however the need for structured wireless workforce training is clear. The need to attract and train new wireless employees is being driven by complex new technologies (DAS, small cell, NFV, etc…), a recent rise in tower climber fatalities and an aging wireless and wireline workforce. Tower climbers, fiber splicers, site acquisition/right-of-way specialists and project managers are just a few of the jobs in high demand.
According to Adelstein, TIRAP plans to create credentialed training and apprentice programs across the wireless infrastructure ecosystem.
Ironically, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) have long offered telecommunications training, certifications and apprenticeships.
Separate from TIRAP, the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) recently announced the creation of the National Wireless Safety Association, which also plans to provide national assessment and certification programs.
