How states are tackling the broadband worker shortage

The $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Development (BEAD) program is well underway, aiming to bring affordable high-speed internet to all Americans. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration expects to approve all initial funding proposals by the end of the year. With this, states; Washington, D.C.; and five territories can finalize their proposals and receive the funds needed to build out and upgrade broadband networks over the next few years.

As BEAD subgrantees prepare to embark on broadband deployments required to connect 100% of locations, a significant challenge looms — a shortage of skilled workers to build these networks. It is vitally important that we, as a nation, address this issue so that it does not risk delaying projects. While several factors contribute to this broadband workforce gap, rapidly changing technology and the unique nature of broadband deployment play significant roles.

A Telecom Industry Conundrum

While many industries face an aging workforce crisis, telecom has been particularly affected. Employment in this sector has plummeted 23% since 2013, from 854,200 to 656,700 workers in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Rapid technological advancements that require new skill sets have contributed to the declining telecom workforce compared with other industries that have remained relatively consistent.

For example, less than a few decades ago, the telecom landscape looked very different, with traditional copper-based infrastructure ruling the roost. However, most of today’s digital networks and those of tomorrow will be powered by optical fiber-based infrastructure, robust cybersecurity and software-driven solutions. While initial construction roles for BEAD-funded broadband deployments like surveyors, excavators and laborers can be filled from adjacent construction industries, finding skilled workers for other stages of deployment is especially challenging. Many service providers also compete for the small pool of skilled workers with tech giants offering higher wages and a perceived image of better career growth opportunities. Lack of awareness and understanding of career paths, inconsistent job titles and vast wage disparity in broadband compound the problem.

Like other trades, the lack of workers for broadband deployment is particularly problematic in rural areas due to slower population growth, limited access to training, lower wages and lack of economic investment. Comparbly.com shows an average yearly salary of $146,144 for fiber splicing in San Jose, California, versus just $67,185 in Louisville, Kentucky. The lack of rural broadband access is also a contributing factor — the very issue that BEAD aims to address in these areas. 

In my recent conversation with policy analyst Blair Levin, a former Federal Communications Commission chief of staff who directed the writing of the National Broadband Plan, he noted the nature of broadband deployments compared to other industries exacerbates the workforce issue. “Broadband deployment is cyclical and requires an inconsistent, diverse workforce — one to build it, one to maintain it, and one to operate it,” he said. “The jobs required to build it are not steady, which makes it harder to attract and retain workers.” That said, the post-build phase will require steadier labor for maintenance and operation.

A 2020 report presented to the Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee of the Federal Communications Commission underscores the unique challenges of broadband deployment compared to industries with infrastructure mostly built out. The report points explicitly to a perception of low job security in broadband due to an uneven demand for skills and a lack of career options when the peak demand is over. Seasonal weather issues, harsh outdoor environments, long hours, the need for workers to be on the road and positions like pole and tower climbers that require working at heights are also highlighted as broadband workforce challenges.

Tackling the Crisis 

With the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the BEAD program placing greater emphasis on the workforce gap, several states are responding:

• In 2022, the Communications Workers of America announced a statewide expansion of fiber technician apprenticeships across California.
• In 2023, the Vermont Community Broadband Board and Vermont Department of Labor partnered with the state technical college to launch a new broadband installer apprenticeship program.
• The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry announced a significant investment to support broadband expansion through registered apprenticeship programs.
• Ohio’s Office of Workforce Transformation announced a 12-week interactive broadband infrastructure training program covering design, installation and service components. Similar initiatives are happening in other states across the nation.

Industry organizations, manufacturers, service providers and educational institutions are also coming together to increase awareness of career opportunities, expand fiber optic training and develop apprentice and credential programs to attract more workers. Light Brigade, a leader in fiber optic skills training, recently announced a new broadband-centric training program with various certifications. NTCA (the Rural Broadband Association) is expanding its multi-tier apprenticeship, training and education partnerships, including teaming up with Wisconsin’s Northwood Technical College to provide online access to Broadband Academy courses and develop a “Digital Badging” program. 

As the national sponsor of the Department of Labor registered Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program, the Wireless Infrastructure Association is helping ensure states have workforce development strategies to meet the requirements of the BEAD program and serving as a liaison with employers and education providers to identify skills gaps and create industry-focused curricula on broadband technologies. Earlier this year, TIA and Fierce Network launched Broadband Nation, a digital platform featuring training and job opportunities, educational events and other resources. Corning and AT&T have also launched a new training program to equip technicians and network specialists with broadband skills.

While these efforts aim to address the immediate need for a workforce to build BEAD-funded broadband networks, Levin observed that it’s not just a one-time deployment skills issue. “Regardless of where the funds come from, you need a workforce to build the networks. But it’s much more than that. With advancing technologies like AI, we will need a workforce with digital skills forever,” he told me.

At least 13 states expect to have BEAD funds available after last-mile deployments funds are disbursed. Ideally, some of these funds will be used for education programs to help increase the number of skilled technicians and engineers adept in the latest networking technologies, which will be needed to maintain and operate the networks. Digital skills training is also vital for newly connected communities to leverage deployed broadband networks for economic and social success. 

Dave Stehlin is the chief executive officer of the Telecommunications Industry Association.