Webinar: Diversity, Equity, and Access for Broadband Careers

More than $42 billion has been awarded to states for broadband expansion, including associated workforce development, with a priority for registered apprenticeships and underrepresented populations.

In this session, we explored leading careers in fiber optics, wireless communication, and project management, highlighting U.S. Department of Labor-endorsed training initiatives by the Wireless Infrastructure (WIA) that are capturing attention from employers and educators across the country.

This comprehensive webinar offers invaluable guidance for educational institutions, workforce agencies, and employers keen on molding and hiring a top-tier broadband workforce. Dive back into the replay to deepen your understanding of pivotal roles, connect with a vast network of hiring broadband employers, and discover how your organization can effectively prepare individuals for this rapidly growing industry.

Deb Bennett

Vice President of Apprenticeship - Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) at Wireless Infrastructure Association

Training tomorrow’s leaders in the infrastructure workforce is Deb Bennett’s specific challenge and inspiration. In her current role with WIA, she not only serves as the Director of Apprenticeship for TIRAP (Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program), she also consults on education/workforce development issues, and advises WWLF (Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum).

Todd Jackson

Director of Workforce Development, Fiber Broadband Association

A dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience supporting technology organizations in the public and private sectors, including companies in high-growth and transition stages. Todd has a strong ability to influence, build relationships, and garner support across organizational boundaries. With deep technical and operational expertise, coupled with extensive business acumen, he is known as a motivational leader who clearly defines vision and goals, which aligns teams to consistently deliver results that exceed expectations.

Amelia De Jesus

Vice President, Workforce Solutions, Wireless Infrastructure Association

Amelia De Jesus is the Vice President of Workforce Solutions at the Wireless Infrastructure Association, leading the development of WIA’s Workforce Solutions as the association focuses on developing America’s highly skilled, diverse broadband workforce through innovative sector partnerships.

Amelia has over two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry. Prior to joining WIA, she worked at Crown Castle, where she served as the national vice president. She has diverse industry experience, having worked for operators, service, and infrastructure providers. A leader in the industry, she also served as president of the WIA-affiliated Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum from 2017-2019, and she continues to be passionate about coaching and advocacy for youth and women.

Dr. Ronald Johnson

Sr. Advisor & Chief Strategist, Wireless Infrastructure Association

Ronald Johnson has spent over forty years in government, education, industry and non-profits where he is recognized for understanding and addressing diversity issues in workforce development and supply chain operations. A founder and operator of telecommunication companies, Dr. Johnson is acutely aware of unique barriers to entrance in the industry. As facilitator of numerous panels and convenings, he works collaboratively with all stakeholders to address these barriers and other related challenging issues.

More than $42 billion has been awarded to states for broadband expansion, including associated workforce development, with a priority for registered apprenticeships and underrepresented populations.

Webinar Speakers: