The Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program, or TIRAP, is a competency-based program created by and for telecommunications employers. TIRAP helps telecom professionals define their career path while enhancing productivity and maintaining safety, which in turn provides employers with higher engagement and much-needed retention of skilled workers.

TIRAP Apprenticeship Benefits

There are significant benefits for those participating in the apprenticeship program, including:

1. Increased Skills – Telecommunications companies are able to attract, develop, and retain more skilled workers.
2. Enhanced Bottom Line – Credentialed workers offer enhanced skills, which allows companies to be more productive and profitable.
3. Established Support – TIRAP is sponsored by the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) and is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor.
4. High Retention – Employers experience 94% retention for workers who complete an apprenticeship, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
5. Diverse Culture – Apprenticeships help recruit workers of all backgrounds to a highly skilled occupation, which nurtures an inclusive culture.

Recognized Occupations for Apprenticeship

To receive an industry-recognized credential from TIRAP, applicants participate in one of the following approved occupations:

• Telecommunications Tower Technician or Wireless Technician
• Telecommunications Tower Antenna & Line Lead
• Telecommunications Tower Antenna & Line Foremen
• Telecommunications Tower Construction Lead or Foremen
• Maintenance & Condition Assessment Leads or Foremen
• Fiber Optic Technician
• Underground Utility Installer Technician
• Overhead Utility Installer Technician

College Credits Through TIRAP Apprenticeship

Thanks to a partnership with the American Council on Education, TIRAP apprentices who complete the telecommunications tower technician (TTT) program—which includes more than 160 hours of classroom learning and on-the-job training—can earn 14 or more community college credits. TTT apprentices also receive digital badges from Credly, a leader in issuing and managing digital credentials, which verify their accomplishments and credit equivalency.

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