Tower Technician Programs in North Dakota

Becoming a Tower Technician in North Dakota

If you’re considering a career as a tower technician in North Dakota, you’re entering a vital and growing field. Tower technicians, also known as tower climbers, are skilled professionals responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications and broadcast towers. These roles are essential for ensuring reliable communication networks, including cellular, radio, and broadband services.

This guide provides an overview of what it takes to become a tower technician in North Dakota, including training programs, certification pathways, and local employment opportunities.

Why Become a Tower Technician in North Dakota?

North Dakota, known for its wide-open spaces and robust energy infrastructure, is an excellent place to start a career in telecommunications. The state has a growing need for skilled tower technicians to support expanding broadband and cellular networks, particularly in rural areas.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), telecommunications equipment installers and repairers earn an average annual salary of $60,370 nationwide, with job growth projected to remain steady as demand for 5G and broadband services increases. For more information, visit the BLS Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers page.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Training

Before enrolling in a tower technician training program, you must meet certain prerequisites, which typically include:

Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally preferred.
Physical Fitness: The job requires climbing, heavy lifting, and working in extreme weather conditions, so physical fitness is critical.
Background Checks: Many programs and employers require a clean background check and may include drug screening.
Medical Clearance: A physical exam may be required to confirm you are fit for high-altitude work.

Typical Training Curriculum

Tower technician training programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Here’s what you can expect in a typical curriculum:

Safety Training: OSHA 10-Hour Construction, fall protection, and rescue training are foundational components.
Radio Frequency (RF) Awareness: Essential training to work safely around RF emissions.
Rigging and Hoisting: Proper techniques for safely handling equipment and materials at height.
First Aid and CPR: Certification in basic life-saving skills.
Tower Climbing and Maintenance: Practical training for climbing and working on various types of towers.

Most programs can be completed in a few weeks to a few months, depending on their intensity and specialization.

Tower Technician Training Programs in North Dakota

While North Dakota has limited dedicated tower technician training programs, there are related training opportunities and nearby schools that offer relevant courses. Here are some options:

Lake Region State College
- Location: Devils Lake, ND
- Program: Wind Energy Technician Certificate or AAS Degree
- Details: This program includes training in safety, climbing, and maintenance, which can be applied to tower work.
- Website: Lake Region State College Wind Energy Technician Program
- Cost: Approximately $5,400 per year (check website for details).
Bismarck State College
- Location: Bismarck, ND
- Program: Energy programs with safety and technical training relevant to telecommunications.
- Details: Offers certifications and hands-on training that can be applied to tower work.
- Website: Bismarck State College Energy Programs
NATE Tower Apprentice Program
- Location: Nationwide (Online and in-person options)
- Details: Comprehensive training for tower technicians, including OSHA certification, RF safety, and climbing techniques.
- Website: NATE Tower Apprentice Program
- Cost: $1,295 (member discounts available).

For those willing to travel, additional training centers in neighboring states, such as Minnesota or South Dakota, may also offer relevant programs.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in North Dakota

North Dakota is home to several telecommunications companies and contractors specializing in tower services. Here are some major employers:

Midco
- Headquarters: Fargo, ND
- Details: Provides broadband and telecommunications services across the Midwest.
- Jobs: Visit their Careers page for openings in tower maintenance and installation.
Verizon Wireless
- Locations: Statewide coverage in North Dakota
- Details: A leading telecommunications provider with frequent job openings for tower technicians.
- Jobs: Explore opportunities on their Careers page.
American Tower Corporation
- Locations: Nationwide, with towers in North Dakota
- Details: Specializes in owning and maintaining telecommunications towers.
- Jobs: Learn more on their Careers page.

Industry Certifications and Safety Requirements

Certifications are essential for tower technicians and are often required by employers. Key certifications include:

NATE Certification: Offered by the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE), this ensures standardized training in tower safety and operations. Learn more at NATE’s website.
OSHA 10-Hour Construction: Basic safety training for construction environments. Visit OSHA.
Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA): Offers Certified Tower Climber (CTC) and Certified Tower Technician (CTT) certifications. Visit TIA’s website.
CPR and First Aid: Typically included in training programs.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of tower technician training in North Dakota varies by program. For example:

Lake Region State College: Approximately $5,400 per year for full-time students.
NATE Tower Apprentice Program: $1,295, with discounts for NATE members.

Financial aid options include:

Federal Student Aid: Apply at FAFSA.
Scholarships: Check with local schools or professional organizations like NATE.
Employer-Sponsored Training: Some companies provide paid training or reimburse certification costs.

Career Advancement and Specializations

Tower technicians can advance their careers by obtaining additional certifications and specializing in areas such as:

5G Technology: Advanced training for installing and maintaining 5G infrastructure.
Microwave and Broadcast Towers: Specialized skills for these unique tower types.
Project Management: Transitioning to supervisory roles or project oversight.

Organizations like NATE and TIA offer resources for professional development and career progression.

Get Started Today

Becoming a tower technician in North Dakota is a rewarding career choice, offering opportunities to work in a growing industry while contributing to vital communications infrastructure. Contact a training program today to begin your journey, and take the first step toward a challenging and fulfilling career.