Telecom Academy at Highland High School

Labor data provided by both national sources and telecommunications union organizations indicate that more than half (nearly 52 percent) of the current telecommunications workforce has 25 years or more time on the job. This means that, within a few years, the industry will be ready to replace retirees, as well as fill new job openings reflecting changing technology.    

MTC is working to fill this void through initiatives such as the MTC Telecommunications Technology Academy at Highland High School. 

‘‘The new Academy will open in Fall 2002, and will consist of the College’s Telecommunications/Telephony certificate curriculum uniquely matched to Highland students' schedule,’’ stated Ed Margraff, an Associate Professor of Engineering Technologies at MTC and the principle developer of the new Telecommunications Program. ‘‘This curriculum will be offered over a two- to three-year period primarily to Highland juniors and seniors to provide a ‘stepping stone’ into a high-pay, high-tech career field.’’  

Over the past year, MTC administrators met with Highland School District officials to formalize the Academy concept. Coordinators from both the College and Verizon met with more than 80 enthusiastic parents and students to discuss the challenges of enrolling in this college-level program. After reviewing application materials and interviewing student applicants, MTC administrators recommended 25 students for potential Academy enrollment beginning Fall 2002. Highland officials are finalizing the screening and enrollment process.   

‘‘We’re very excited about the enthusiasm we see in the eyes of students, parents, and Highland staff – before classes have even started. This program offers a valuable hands-on opportunity for area young people that is practical and convenient,’’ Margraff said.   

‘‘Telecommunications employers need skilled employees that are ready to work, and this initiative from MTC will provide an influx of trained individuals into the pool of potential employees,’’ added Bob Walczak, Director of Human Resources at Verizon of Marion.  

Academy participants will be trained to (1) install and maintain a variety of telephone systems, (2) perform basic cable and line work, (3) troubleshoot and coordinate both inside and outside plant activities, and (4) manipulate modern interconnectivity components and equipment.   

Graduates of this Academy will earn a Telecommunications Certificate through MTC’s Engineering Technologies division. Individuals may seek employment or apply to the College’s
proposed Associate of Applied Science degree program in Telecommunications (housed at the Marion Campus).    

Beginning in Fall of 2003, the Academy will be available to students attending other Morrow County schools on a space-available basis.     

The Telecommunications Technology program at MTC is the only type of this program in the state of Ohio.

For more information on the MTC Telecommunications Technology Academy, contact MTC’s Office of Admission at 740-389-4636.