Johnston Community College’s new hands-on program prepares local workforce for high-demand careers powering the future of high-speed internet
Four Oaks, N.C. — March 19, 2026 — As North Carolina rapidly expands fiber broadband infrastructure, the need for skilled technicians to build and maintain those networks has never been greater. Brightspeed, the nation’s third-largest fiber broadband builder, is partnering with Johnston Community College (JCC) to help prepare the next generation of workers through a hands-on fiber optic technician training program designed to support the future of high-speed connectivity across the state.
The 40-hour program provides hands-on training in fiber installation, splicing, testing and field deployment — skills essential to building the high-capacity networks that power local communities. With careers in fiber optics in high demand, this course is designed to equip participants with job-ready skills and a direct pathway into the field upon completion. Upcoming course sessions are scheduled for the weekends of March 28 and April 11. Prospective students are encouraged to register now, as space is limited.
The Fiber Optic Technician program builds on JCC’s collaboration with Corning Incorporated, which has pioneered technologies that help accelerate broadband deployment. The program also strengthens the college’s commitment to workforce development that aligns directly with employer needs across Johnston County and beyond.
“We realize that high-speed internet is no longer a luxury resource; it’s a necessity for modern living,” says Dr. Marc David, Vice President of Instruction and Chief Academic Officer at Johnston Community College. “With Brightspeed’s support, not only is this program empowering a new generation of the workforce critical to completing and maintaining fiber broadband build in North Carolina, but it’s also supporting dozens of hard-working individuals interested in pursuing a promising and future-proof career requiring trained, technical skills. We’re proud to host such a life-changing program here in Johnston County.”
For Brightspeed, investing in workforce training is a critical part of the company’s mission to close the digital divide in rural communities.
“Our mission is to bridge the digital divide in rural communities, but we can’t do that without the skilled workers who actually make it happen,” says Sabrina Anderson, local marketing manager at Brightspeed. “We’re proud to partner with Johnston Community College to reach individuals curious about technical careers and looking for an opportunity to develop their skills for the future of our industry.”
Brightspeed Fiber Internet is currently available to more than 800,000 families and businesses across North Carolina, with thousands more locations coming online every month. Residents and businesses can check if Brightspeed Fiber Internet is available in their area by visiting www.brightspeed.com.
About Brightspeed
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. and with assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed provides broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 7.3 million homes and businesses. Our nearly 4,000 employees are committed to building a future where more communities benefit from a more connected life, deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes being connected as simple as it should be. For more information, please visit www.brightspeed.com.
