Tower Technician Programs in Akron, Ohio

Becoming a Tower Technician in Akron, Ohio

The demand for skilled tower technicians—also known as tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—continues to rise as Ohio expands its broadband and wireless infrastructure. These professionals play a crucial role in installing, maintaining, and repairing communication towers that support cellular, broadband, and emergency networks.

Whether new to the field or seeking a career change, understanding the available tower technician training programs, certification options, and local employment landscape in Akron, Ohio, is the first step toward launching a rewarding and essential career. This guide will walk through the education and training paths, local resources, certification options, and employment opportunities specific to the Akron area.

About Akron, Ohio

Akron, located in Summit County, is a dynamic city in Northeast Ohio known for its diverse neighborhoods, historic downtown, and proximity to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. As a hub for healthcare, manufacturing, and telecommunications, Akron offers a strong foundation for technical careers. For more information on city services, neighborhoods, and community resources, visit the City of Akron’s official website.

Akron’s strategic location within the Greater Cleveland-Akron metropolitan area gives residents access to a wide range of training institutions and employers in telecommunications. Neighborhoods like Highland Square, Goodyear Heights, and Firestone Park are just a few of the communities supporting Akron’s workforce.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Akron, Ohio

While Akron itself does not currently host a dedicated tower technician program, several high-quality options are available nearby. These programs prepare graduates for entry-level roles in the telecommunications industry and provide the hands-on experience employers seek.

1. Cuyahoga Valley Career Center (CVCC) – Brecksville, Ohio (Approx. 30 miles north of Akron)

  • Program: Telecommunication Tower Technician (TTT)
  • Description: CVCC offers a comprehensive 180-hour program designed to prepare students for tower climber and telecommunications technician roles. The curriculum covers safety protocols, rigging, fall protection, electrical basics, fiber optics, wireless technology, and antenna installation. The program runs October to May, with payment plans and job search assistance available.
  • Location: Brecksville, Greater Cleveland area

2. North Central State College – Shelby, Ohio (Approx. 70 miles southwest of Akron)

  • Program: Telecommunications Tower Technician Program
  • Description: This 240-hour program provides hands-on training in tower safety, rigging, fall protection, RF awareness, and equipment installation. Developed in partnership with Ohio’s Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, it prepares students for industry-recognized certification and immediate employment.
  • Location: Shelby, Richland County

3. Hocking College – Nelsonville, Ohio (Approx. 150 miles south of Akron)

  • Program: Tower Technician 1 (TT1) Certification Program
  • Description: Hocking College’s TT1 program focuses on safety, rigging, electricity, spectrum management, and wireless technology. Graduates are eligible to pursue NWSA certification, a recognized industry credential.
  • Location: Nelsonville, Southeastern Ohio

Note: While these schools are outside Akron proper, they are the closest options offering specialized tower technician training. For those seeking programs within commuting distance, CVCC in Brecksville is the nearest comprehensive option.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Akron

Akron’s telecommunications sector is supported by several major employers, including wireless carriers, infrastructure contractors, and regional service firms. These companies frequently seek trained tower technicians and offer opportunities for career growth.

1. J.W. Didado Telecommunications

  • Website: J.W. Didado
  • Description: Headquartered in Akron’s Kelly Avenue neighborhood, J.W. Didado is a leading regional provider of telecom and fiber optic services. The company handles tower construction, maintenance, fiber installation, and emergency services, hiring skilled technicians for both local and travel-based roles.

2. Crown Castle

  • Website: Crown Castle Careers
  • Description: As one of the largest wireless infrastructure companies in the U.S., Crown Castle operates and maintains thousands of towers nationwide, including facilities in the Greater Akron area. The company offers positions ranging from field technicians to project managers.

3. American Tower

  • Website: American Tower Careers
  • Description: American Tower is a global leader in wireless tower infrastructure with sites across Ohio. Their Akron-area teams focus on maintenance, upgrades, and new site development.

Other employers in the region include small-to-medium contracting firms and national carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, all of which employ tower technicians for ongoing network expansion and maintenance.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician training program, candidates should be aware of typical prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED is required. Some programs accept enrollment in an adult diploma program as an alternative.
  • Age: Minimum of 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to work at heights, lift 50+ pounds, and pass a physical exam. Good vision, hearing, and balance are essential.
  • Background Check: Drug screening and background checks are common requirements for both training programs and employers.
  • Driver’s License: Most employers require a valid driver’s license due to travel involved in the role.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is often a key step to employment as a tower climber or telecommunications tower technician. Although Ohio does not have a state licensing requirement, employers seek candidates with industry-recognized credentials.

National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) Certification

The National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) offers the leading industry certification for tower technicians, including:

  • Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1)
  • Telecommunications Tower Technician 2 (TTT-2)

NWSA certification involves a written and practical exam, verifying knowledge of climbing, rigging, safety, and telecommunications equipment. Most reputable training programs prepare students for the NWSA TTT-1 exam.

ComTrain Certification

ComTrain provides training and certification in tower climbing safety and rescue. Many employers accept ComTrain certification as proof of climbing and rescue competency.

OSHA Safety Training

Completion of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry course is highly recommended and often required. This training covers essential safety topics for construction and tower work.

Get Started Today

Akron’s growing telecommunications sector offers rewarding opportunities for those ready to train as tower technicians. With access to respected programs nearby and a robust job market, now is an excellent time to step into this high-demand field. Take the next step by contacting a local school and exploring your training options. Your career as a tower technician in Akron, Ohio, starts with the right education—reach out to a training provider today to begin your journey.

For more information on job growth and salary expectations in the field, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers page.