SFCC News:
SANTA FE — Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) is accepting applications for October and November Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamps with the opportunity to earn three certifications from the Fiber Optic Association that are recognized throughout the world and aligned to industry standards.
The training is free to qualified New Mexico residents.
Participant requirements:
- Students must be 18 or older;
- Able to distinguish colors; and
- Have good finger dexterity.
- No prior workforce training is required.
Register for either of the Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamps. All bootcamps run 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Fe Higher Education Center, 1950 Siringo Road in Santa Fe.
Here are the details:
- October Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamp runs Tuesday, Oct. 14 through Saturday, Oct. 18. Registrants should apply at Fiber Optic Technician Series NM Gro – SFCC Continuing Education.
- November Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamp runs Monday, Nov. 17 through Friday, Nov. 21. Registrants should apply at Fiber Optic Technician Series NM Gro – SFCC Continuing Education.
For application or registration assistance, email evelyn.gonzales@sfcc.edu or call 505.428.1866.
New Mexico Broadband Pre-Apprenticeship
- All Fiber Optic Technician graduates are eligible to apply for a New Mexico Broadband Pre-Apprenticeship.
In May 2025, SFCC was awarded $100,000 through the State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula, Round 2 (SAEF2) grant administered by the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions Building, Energizing, and Connecting through Apprenticeships (BECA) program for building a pre-apprenticeship pathway for New Mexico’s workforce students pursuing careers in the broadband industry.
Since 2021, more than 300 New Mexicans have participated in SFCC’s fiber optic certification courses.
The first 11 pre-apprentices enrolled Sept. 10 in technical instruction courses for telecom, cable, fiber and wireless instruction. The program has the support of New Mexico telecom employers K’awaika Hanu Internet, Peñasco Valley Telephone Cooperative, Inc., and Pueblo of Pojoaque Internet Service, who have employees enrolled in the pre-apprenticeship program.
SFCC Director of Workforce Development Monique Anair, Ed.D. said, “Our first cohort brings together professionals working in the field upskilling to better serve their communities, and trades contractors new to fiber and interested in learning new skills to pursue full-time work in New Mexico’s growing broadband industry sector.” She added, “This type of hands-on training is an excellent example of what we can accomplish when we bring workforce agencies, higher education, and employers together in New Mexico.”
SFCC plans to enroll its second cohort of pre-apprentices starting in January 2026. Anyone interested in learning more about this program should contact Anair at monique.anair1@sfcc.edu or 505.428.1060.
About the five-day Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamps
The five-day, hands-on intensive bootcamp gives students the opportunity to earn three certifications from the Fiber Optic Association. These credentials will remain valid for three years, after which they can be renewed by the student. Students can earn the following certifications: Certified Fiber Optic Technician, Certified Fiber Optic Specialist in Splicing, and Certified Fiber Optic Specialist in Testing and Maintenance.
Demand for certified fiber optic technicians
Certified fiber optic technicians are needed in the broadband industry because they bring the specialized knowledge, skills, and certifications required to ensure that fiber optic networks are installed, maintained, and repaired to the highest standards. As broadband networks continue to expand and evolve, the demand for certified technicians who can handle these advanced technologies will continue to grow.
New Mexico employers who would like to know about special group pricing for classes should contact Director of Workforce Development Monique Anair at monique.anair1@sfcc.edu or 505.428.1060. Individuals who need registration assistance for the October and November Fiber Optic Technician Bootcamps should contact Operations Coordinator for Contract Training Evelyn Gonzales at evelyn.gonzales@sfcc.edu or 505.428.1866.
About Santa Fe Community College
For more than 40 years Santa Fe Community College has been the pathway to success for individuals and the community. SFCC provides affordable, high-quality programs that serve the academic, cultural, and economic needs of the community. The college welcomes over 10,000 students per year in credit, noncredit, workforce training, personal enrichment, and adult programs. A “Best for Vets” and a “Military Friendly” school. Visit sfcc.edu or call 505.428.1000.