Contact: Chris Chesrown
Media Relations Manager
480-731-8503

For Immediate Release

TELECOM TECHNOLOGY STRONG DESPITE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN

January 10, 2002 – Despite economic troubles for some high tech businesses, local Telecommunication Technology industries are having just the opposite problem; finding qualified people to fill the number of jobs being created in these expanding fields.

Businesses such as Cox Communications, Lucent Technologies and Nokia are partnering with educators to train people for well-paying jobs in wireless communications, cable television, telephone and fiber optics, in a relatively short period of time.

The Telecommunications Technology Program at South Mountain Community College is the first program of its kind in the state. Students can pursue one of three career tracks and receive a certificate of completion or an associate’s degree in several specialty areas. Program Director Cliff Heide, says it’s an opportunity that will provide skills which translate into real jobs, “it’s been difficult to get a job in these industries because there’s been no place to get experience. Our program provides the hands-on experience that employers want.”

“As society becomes more tech savvy, we could begin to experience a shortage of technicians and engineers skilled in telecommunications technology,” said Ivan Johnson, vice president of community relations and tele-video. “Our partnership with South Mountain Community College not only underscores Cox’s commitment to education, but it ensures that students receive the training necessary to become skilled recruits capable of meeting the increasing demands of technology.”

Cox has installed a fiber-optic line to provide access to high-speed data service. Corporate partnerships are also providing the equipment and latest industry information to keep the training up to date.

The Telecommunications Technology Program, through work with the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, will serve as a model for other programs throughout the United States. Coursework begins January 14, 2002. Students can get more information at (602) 243-8123 or www.smc.maricopa.edu/academics/telecom/index.htm

The Maricopa County Community College District is one of the largest community college districts in the nation. It includes 10 colleges – Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Estrella Mountain Community College, GateWay Community College, Glendale Community College, Mesa Community College, Paradise Valley Community College, Phoenix College, Rio Salado College, Scottsdale Community College and South Mountain Community College. The District also includes the Maricopa Skill Center, Southwest Skill Center, several satellite campuses and business/industry, technical and customized training institutes and serves more than a quarter million students annually. For more information on the Maricopa Community Colleges: 480-731-8000 or www.maricopa.edu

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March 13, 2002