Danville Community College hosts advanced fiber optic training

Danville Community College hosted a fusion splicing training and networking event on Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave for approximately 30 people, Gov. Ralph Northam announced Tuesday.

Fusion splicing is the joining of two optical fibers to create a continuous light path, carrying data to phones, internet and television. With technical jobs such as fusion splicing being in high demand — especially in Virginia where data centers are plentiful — the training addresses workforce needs, said Virginia Economic Development Partnership President and CEO Stephen Moret in a statement.

“Providing access to training on cutting-edge technology is critical in our competitive global economy, and we thank AWS and Sumitomo for providing the Fusion Splicing Certificate Course to Southern Virginia’s workforce,” Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball said. “Partnerships like these will help the commonwealth reach its goal to have the best labor pool in the nation.”

AWS creates fiber optic products and solutions while Sumitomo Electric is a fiber optic cable manufacturer offering a variety of advanced products in ribbon technology, air-blown fiber, fusion splicing and connectivity solutions. Together, the two companies are hosting courses at local community colleges across the nation.

“Technicians skilled in using cutting-edge machines such as the mass fusion splicer will be prepared to perform the critical jobs building the infrastructure needed to wire the country for the digital world,” said Michael Punke, AWS vice president of global public policy.

The course focuses on fiber optic installation and repair, and was primarily led by Sumitomo Electric. The training was comprised of lectures and hands-on lessons.

“AWS has a significant presence in Virginia, and this specialized course is a terrific way to give back to our communities, providing critical skills training in rapidly-evolving technologies,” Northam said in a statement. “We are proud that AWS and Sumitomo selected Danville to offer this training event.”