Program Overview
OpTIC Path™ Fiber Broadband Training
At Ashland University, in Partnership with the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA)
Start your career in one of the fastest-growing, highest-demand industries. The FBA OpTIC Path™ program at Ashland University gives students the hands-on training needed to work in fiber broadband construction, operations, troubleshooting, and emergency restoration.
Designed by fiber broadband industry professionals, OpTIC Path™ equips you with practical, job ready skills aligned with current industry standards and real-world employer expectations.
Learn by Doing. Prepare for the Field.
OpTIC Path™ emphasizes hands-on learning, giving students direct experience with fiber optic splicing, testing, maintenance, and problem-solving. You’ll gain both the technical skills and professional knowledge needed to confidently enter the fiber broadband workforce and work toward becoming an OpTIC Certified Fiber Splicer.
No matter your background—whether you’re new to the field or building on existing experience—this program is designed to help you succeed.
Who Should Enroll
This program is a great fit for individuals who are:
- Students or adults seeking fast, career focused workforce training
- Career changers looking to enter a stable, high demand technical field
- Veterans or transitioning service members pursuing civilian career skills
- Individuals interested in hands-on, technical work rather than traditional classroom learning
- Workers seeking formal training or certification to advance in construction, utilities, or telecommunications
- Anyone interested in supporting the expansion of reliable broadband infrastructure
No prior fiber experience is required.
Request Information
| Fiber Installer Technician | Fiber Field Technician: Module 1: Intro Applications - Why Fiber? Module 2: Types, Theory, & Properties Module 3: Safety & Tools Module 5: Connectors Module 7: Splicing Module 9: Values, Success in the Field Module 14: Optical Network Terminals (ONT) – Install |
|---|---|
| Fiber Technician I | Fiber Technician: Module 5: Connectors (Review) Module 7: Splicing (Review) Module 13: Systems Overview Module 9: Hands on skill repairing damaged drop with a small drop repair closure) Module 12: Inside Plant (ISP)/Premises (Single-Family (SFU) Home and Multi-Family Home (MDU)) Installation Module 14: Optical Network Terminals (ONT) – Review |
| Fiber Technician II | Fiber System Technician: Module 4: Cables and Cable Structures Module 6: Architectures, Topologies & Splitters Module 5: Connectors Module 7: Splicing Module 9: Review plus, Documentation, Closures and Terminals Module 11: Outside Plant (OSP) |
| Fiber Technician III | Fiber Network Technician: Module 5: Connectors (Review) Module 7: Splicing (Review) Module 8: Central Office and FDH (Primarily Indoor Building Cable Management) Module 10: Test Equipment & Testing Module 13: Systems Overview (Review) Module 15: Troubleshooting |
Fiber Broadband Association OpTIC Path
- Hands-on training, Online Learning Modules, and Assessment: 100 hours total (10 weeks), hybrid learning with practical exercises, labs, and instruction from an AU Instructor who is FBA certified to teach this content and provide the knowledge students need to become certified.
- Relevance: Covers the latest industry standards, practices, trends, and technologies
Program Details:
- Cost: $1,800 per student, or customized arrangements made with districts or employers. ($450 per module section listed in the table above).
- Program Duration: 10 Weeks (can be customized to fit student needs)
- Delivery Format: Hybrid (On-Line and In-Person)
- 15 Self-Paced Modules: Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) OpTIC Path™
- Labs are conducted In-Person
- Final Assessment (On-Line): FBA Proctored Multiple Choice Exam on a secured site
- Students have 3 attempts to pass before having to retake the course
- Students Receive:
- Optical Telecommunications Installer Certification (OpTIC Path™)
- 1 year membership to FBA (Fiber Broadband Association)
- Mini starter tool kit with case
- Optional Programs
- Fiber Splicer Train The Trainer: ($2400)
- (FBA) OpTIC Path™ Fiber Splicer Training Certification
- Trainer competencies and methodologies (Planning, Delivery and Assessment toolkit)
- 1 year of support through AU
- 1 year membership to FBA
- Fiber Splicer Train The Trainer: ($2400)