WIA Partners with Ashland University to Offer Broadband and 5G Training to Incarcerated Individuals

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) entered a new partnership with Ashland University (OH) to help approximately 140 incarcerated individuals, who are eligible for release within 12 months, prepare for careers in broadband and 5G this spring and summer. With expanded funding from the Ohio Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation’s Individual Microcredential Assistance Program (IMAP), Ashland University (AU) will offer the first credential of WIA’s four-part 5G Readiness Certification. WIA’s 5G Readiness Certification consists of four stackable credentials focused on wireless broadband infrastructure, 5G ecosystems, in-building wireless solutions, and 5G and broadband deployment. Through the program, AU will offer the first two credentials to incarcerated individuals, and upon release, they will be able to take the third and fourth credentials to earn the certification. This training will prepare participants to interview for jobs in occupations such as Small Cell Technician, Wireless Technician, Fiber Optic Technician, Drive Test Technician, and several others.