Tower Technician Programs in Cleveland, Ohio

Becoming a Tower Technician in Cleveland, Ohio

Considering a career as a tower technician in Cleveland, Ohio? This guide will walk through everything you need to know about becoming a tower technician, also known as a tower climber, cell tower technician, or telecommunications tower technician. These professionals install, maintain, and repair wireless communication towers critical to cell phone, radio, and broadband networks. With the rollout of 5G and ongoing broadband expansion, demand for trained tower technicians is on the rise in Ohio.

There are several education and training paths available, including certificate programs at technical colleges, hands-on training, industry-recognized certification, and pre-apprenticeship programs. Whether you are just starting out or looking to upskill, Cleveland offers a range of local and regional options to help you launch a successful career in this essential field.

About Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, is the largest city in Cuyahoga County and a hub for technology, healthcare, and manufacturing in Northeast Ohio. Known for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Metroparks, and neighborhoods like Ohio City and University Circle, Cleveland is a city invested in technological and economic revitalization. The city actively supports workforce development initiatives and digital equity through collaborations with Cuyahoga County and local organizations. Learn more about the city at the official Cleveland website.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Cleveland, Ohio

While Cleveland has growing demand for tower technicians, only a few specialized training programs exist within the city limits. However, several excellent programs are available within a reasonable drive. Here are the top options for tower technician training in and around Cleveland:

1. Cuyahoga Valley Career Center (CVCC) — Brecksville, OH (Approx. 17 miles south of downtown Cleveland)

  • Program: Telecommunication Tower Technician (TTT) Program
  • Description: CVCC offers a 180-hour Telecommunication Tower Technician program, preparing students for entry-level positions in the field. Coursework covers safety, rigging, fall protection, electricity, fiber optics, wireless technology, and antenna basics. The program incorporates hands-on training to meet industry standards and prepares graduates for the NWSA TTT1 certification exam. Flexible scheduling and weekend classes are available. Payment plans and job placement support are offered.
  • Visit the CVCC Tower Technician Program page

2. Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) — Cleveland, OH (Multiple locations)

  • Program: Workforce Innovation Programs (Telecommunications and Broadband)
  • Description: Tri-C offers workforce training aligned with telecommunications and broadband careers, including non-credit and credit programs. These programs emphasize hands-on skills, safety, and employment readiness. Financial aid and customized employer partnerships help students transition into the workforce. While Tri-C does not offer a dedicated tower technician certificate, related programs can support foundational knowledge.
  • Explore Tri-C Workforce Innovation Programs

3. North Central State College — Mansfield, OH (Approx. 75 miles southwest of Cleveland)

  • Program: Tower Technician Certificate Program
  • Description: North Central State College provides a 240-hour Tower Technician Certificate program at the James W. Kehoe Center. The curriculum includes tower safety, rigging, fall protection, CPR/First Aid, OSHA 10-Hour training, RF awareness, antenna basics, and NWSA test preparation. Graduates are prepared for entry-level work and can expect starting salaries between $50,000 and $60,000 per year.
  • North Central State College Tower Technician Program

Other Notable Regional Programs

  • Hocking College – Nelsonville, OH (Approx. 170 miles south of Cleveland): Offers a Tower Technician 1 (TT1) Certification Program with embedded certifications including fall protection, OSHA 10-Hour Construction, and RF awareness. Learn more about Hocking College’s Tower Tech program.

  • Youngstown State University – Youngstown, OH (Approx. 75 miles southeast of Cleveland): Offers a broadband industry pre-apprenticeship program in partnership with TIRAP, focused on fiber optic and broadband technician roles. More details on YSU Workforce and Innovation.

While some programs are located outside Cleveland, all are accessible to residents and offer high-quality, industry-aligned training.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Cleveland

Cleveland is home to a strong telecommunications sector, with employers ranging from national carriers to specialized tower service companies. Here are some of the top organizations hiring tower technicians, cell tower technicians, and related roles:

Major Telecommunications & Tower Service Employers

  • AT&T Ohio — Downtown Cleveland

    • A leading wireless carrier and broadband provider, AT&T supports regional 5G and broadband expansion. AT&T partners with workforce initiatives to hire entry-level and experienced tower technicians.
    • AT&T Careers

  • Verizon — Regional Offices, Cleveland

    • Verizon operates robust cell and 5G networks throughout Ohio and routinely hires technicians for tower and field operations.
    • Verizon Careers

  • Tri County Tower — Cleveland Area

    • Specializes in tower construction, maintenance, and upgrades for cellular and broadcast networks. Offers opportunities for tower climbers, riggers, and field technicians.
    • Tri County Tower Careers

  • Centerline Communications — Independence, OH (Cleveland suburb)

  • Matrix Telecom Solutions — Parma, OH

    • Regional telecom contractor offering wireless infrastructure services and periodic openings for tower technicians.
    • Matrix Telecom Solutions

  • OhioMeansJobs — Cuyahoga County

    • The county’s workforce board, connecting job seekers with telecommunications openings, apprenticeships, and training support.
    • OhioMeansJobs Cuyahoga County

Most employers require certifications such as NWSA TTT1 and emphasize safety, travel flexibility, and physical ability. Many offer competitive benefits and the potential for overtime or travel-based pay.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician training program, applicants should expect to meet these typical requirements:

  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED (some programs allow concurrent enrollment in adult diploma options)
  • Age: Usually 18 or older
  • Physical Fitness: Must be capable of climbing towers, working at heights, and handling physical tasks in all weather conditions
  • Identification: Valid government-issued ID
  • Background Check/Drug Screening: Most employers and some programs require passing a background check and drug screening
  • Reliable Transportation: Required for travel to job sites and training facilities

Some programs, such as those at CVCC and Hocking College, include English as a Second Language (ESL) support for non-native speakers.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is a vital step in becoming a qualified tower technician. While Ohio does not regulate tower technician licensure, industry-based certifications ensure worker safety and employability.

Key Certifications

  • NWSA TTT1 (Telecommunications Tower Technician 1)
  • NWSA TTT2 (Telecommunications Tower Technician 2)
    • For technicians with greater experience and supervisory capability.
  • ComTrain Climber/Rescuer and Rigging Certifications
    • ComTrain provides widely accepted tower safety and rescue certifications.
  • OSHA 10-Hour Construction
    • Occupational Safety and Health Administration training required by many employers.
  • First Aid/CPR
    • American Heart Association or equivalent certification.
  • RF/EME Awareness
    • Training in radio frequency and electromagnetic energy safety.

Graduates of most Ohio tower technician programs are eligible to sit for the NWSA TTT1 exam upon completion.

Get Started Today

Tower technician careers offer strong job prospects, excellent wages, and the satisfaction of supporting critical communications infrastructure. If you are ready to take the next step, reach out to a training provider listed above and ask about enrollment, schedules, or financial assistance. Completing a tower technician program and obtaining your certifications will put you on the path to a rewarding and high-demand career in telecommunications. Contact a local school today to start your journey.

For more information on job outlook and salary data for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook page.