Occupation Description:
The TIRAP Telecommunication Tower Technician (TTT) is a member of a crew performing general construction activities with an emphasis on tower system installation and maintenance and inspection of existing support structures used in the provision of essential telecommunication systems, including personal wireless communications, public safety communications, utility networks, and broadcasting.
Program Description:
The TIRAP Telecommunication Tower Technician Apprentice is a supervised member of a crew performing general construction activities with an emphasis on tower system installation and maintenance and inspection of existing support structures used in the provision of essential telecommunication systems, including personal wireless communications, public safety communications, utility networks, and broadcasting.
Through an apprenticeship program, students can obtain paid, relevant workplace experience while acquiring the skills and credentials that employer’s value. Apprentices “earn as you learn” as they develop new skills. Apprentices receive an industry-recognized, nationally portable credential and gain workplace-relevant skills through on-the-job learning. Apprentices will connect with mentors who share their knowledge and experience and can help advance the apprentice’s career.
Program Objective:
This occupation includes an interim credential – Telecommunications Tower Technician Level 1. The TTT Level 1 credential offers active apprentices’ recognition of their accomplishments and enable them to demonstrate their proficiency in the critical skills and competencies required by the industry.
Apprentices will gain an understanding of the occupation and its role in deploying wireless infrastructure, including the safety, technical, and operational aspects of the occupation. Identifying and using basic telecommunications tools of the trade are essential.
Learning Outcomes:
- install, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance on copper cabling, cable support equipment
- install cabling and cable runs
- demonstrate safe work procedures when performing cable and conductor systems' installation and maintenance
- demonstrate the practices and procedures of general construction safety in the areas of fall protection, electrical safety, struck-by, and caught-in-between
- recognize commonly used construction equipment
- apply safety requirements, regulations, and set-backs to basic construction activities
- apply safety requirements, regulations, and set-backs to basic construction activities
- explain various methods and techniques of basic construction safety
- apply OSHA safety methods and operations to general construction activities.
- demonstrate proper operations and driving practices for equipment and vehicles
- properly install connectors on typically used line types, hoisting grips, hangers, line support and grounding all compliant with the manufacturers/client’s requirements
- understand the critical standards for the industry such as ANSI/TIA 222, FAA 7460, FCC OET, ANSI/ASSP A10.48, ANSI/TIA 322 documents
- demonstrate the ability to perform the work in compliance with standards, OEM requirements, and client specifications
- recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults
- demonstrate basic first aid skills needed to control bleeding and immobilize injuries.
- inspect wire and synthetic ropes prior to use as part of a fall protection plan
- understand the methods/options available to take necessary corrective measures to ensure safety for the climbing path and when working at heights
- demonstration of proper welding techniques, use of proper PPE, and post weld inspection processes.
General Topics:
- Understand the career pathway and next step of their journey in the TIRAP apprenticeship program
- Perform their role safely, with training in Safety (OSHA), Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), CPR/First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens
- Comprehend the need of the Scope of Work and Job Hazard Analysis
- Understand the differences and responsibilities between Authorized Person, Authorized Climber, and Competent Climber
- While working at height, apply concepts learned in training as an Authorized Climber or Competent Climber/ Rescuer
- Identify rigging components and understand climbing path, rigging path, fall protection tools, and PPE
- Safely drive a truck and trailer and understand the appropriate handling, storage, and transportation of different materials, including proper loading, tagging, and securement of load
- Understand the proper utilization, inspection, care, and storage including the difference between safety ropes and rigging ropes
- Understand the basics of Antenna/Line Installation and Maintenance, Lighting System Installations and Maintenance, and Tower Structural Installation and Maintenance
- Understand the basics of industry standards, regulatory issues, and various types of structures and appurtenances
- Understand manufacturer test equipment and competency with client and manufacturer requirements