LEVY COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The next Creating Connections fiber optics boot camp is set to take place early in the new year for eligible residents interested in high-paying, in-demand careers in broadband telecommunications.
Creating Connections is designed to train individuals to help fill broadband positions for companies providing high-speed internet for approximately 70,000 residents and businesses in rural counties.
Training begins on Feb. 2, 2026, for fiber-optics technicians and installers with a free one-week boot camp at the College of Central Florida Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 U.S. Hwy 19 north of Chiefland.
Enrollment deadline for the February session is Jan. 19, 2026. More boot camps are slated to take place in May, August and November.
Administered by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion in collaboration with CareerSource North Florida and CareerSource North Central Florida, the program provides free training to residents of Levy, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor and Union counties.
Michele Schulze, CareerSource CLM’s Creating Connections coordinator, said that to date more than 60 students have successfully completed the training.
“If you’re wondering what the New Year will bring, this program offers the opportunity to get certified, get connected and get hired,” Schulze said.
Participants receive the following:
- Hands-on training with fiber optic cable, patch panels and test equipment
- Ability to earn three industry recognized certifications at no cost (a $3,350 value)
- Job placement support in broadband telecommunications
- Wrap-around services such as travel assistance, uniforms and tools of the trade
Funding for Creating Connections comes from a $1.73 million grant that is part of the federal Building Pathways to Infrastructure Jobs program.
The fiber optics training is conducted by BDI DataLynk, a standards-based company offering Fiber Optic Association (FOA) sanctioned fiber optics network technician training. FOA is the largest professional fiber optics society in the world.
Residents of eligible counties who are interested in enrolling in the program or learning more should call 800-434-JOBS, ext. 4206, email broadband@careersourceclm.com or visit careersourceclm.com/broadband.