MANSFIELD, Ohio — Ten educators spanning six Ohio school districts recently completed Ashland University’s Telecommunications Boot Camp, a hybrid course designed to help teachers introduce students to careers in broadband, 5G and emerging technologies.
Hosted by AU’s Telego Center for Educational Improvement, the boot camp was developed in collaboration with the university’s Workforce Development and Professional Learning Services teams. Together, these units provide customized training for educators and employers, with a shared goal of preparing students for high-demand career pathways in technology.
Funded by the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, the program awarded participants three graduate credits from AU, which can be applied toward license renewal. The curriculum, created and led by Workforce Development Program Director Joe Kacsandi, emphasized the real-world applications of broadband infrastructure across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture and education.
In addition to instruction, educators received vouchers to earn an industry-recognized 5G credential from the Wireless Infrastructure Association. They also learned about AU’s ability to deliver 5G and fiber optics training directly to schools. For example, the 5G Readiness Certification—available through AU—counts as 12 graduation points for Ohio high school students and can typically be completed within one grading period.
The in-person sessions, held Aug. 4-5 at Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, featured hands-on learning in fiber optics, wireless systems and 5G networks, along with guest speakers from the field. A highlight was a visit to Hord Family Farms in Crawford County, where educators saw how broadband powers modern agriculture through smart sensors, automated systems and data-driven tools.
From Aug. 6-7, participants completed online coursework and developed lesson plans that introduce their students to broadband-related career paths. On Aug. 8, they presented their final projects virtually, sharing how they plan to integrate broadband concepts into classroom instruction and district initiatives.
“The boot camp has opened my eyes to the opportunities available for our students,” said one participant. “I’m excited to help them explore careers they may never have considered.”
Another educator reflected on the broader impact, saying “Technology is transforming traditional jobs. Seeing broadband in action on the farm showed how 5G and automation are reshaping industries. For students, especially those in career tech, this means access to high-skill, high-demand careers.”
“We’re proud to support educators in bringing cutting-edge knowledge to their classrooms,” remarked Kacsandi. “By understanding broadband’s role across industries, they’re helping students gain a competitive edge.”
For more information about Ashland University’s Workforce Development programs, visit www.ashland.edu/workforce-development.
2025-08-27 22:23:00