Tower Technician Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Becoming a Tower Technician in Tulsa, Oklahoma

For those seeking a hands-on, high-demand career in the telecommunications industry, becoming a tower technician—often called a tower climber or cell tower technician—is a rewarding pathway. Tower technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wireless communication towers and related equipment that power today’s mobile and broadband networks. This guide provides an in-depth look at the tower technician career in Tulsa, Oklahoma, outlining training and certification options, local employment opportunities, and next steps for those interested in pursuing this vital trade.

There are several ways to enter the field, ranging from local tower technician training programs and certificate courses to industry-recognized certifications that can help advance your career. Whether you are just starting out or looking to build on your experience, understanding the education and credentialing process is essential for success.

About Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa is the second-largest city in Oklahoma, serving as a major hub for culture, commerce, and industry in the region. Known for its art deco architecture, the city boasts cultural landmarks such as the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Gathering Place, a nationally acclaimed riverfront park. Tulsa’s official website, City of Tulsa, provides a wealth of information about city services and local resources. Neighborhoods like Midtown, Brookside, and Downtown are home to a variety of businesses, including those in the thriving telecommunications sector. Tulsa’s central location and strong workforce development initiatives make it an ideal place to launch a career as a tower technician.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma

To become a tower technician in Tulsa, comprehensive training is essential for both safety and technical competence. While not all schools offer dedicated tower technician programs, several institutions in or near Tulsa provide relevant training and certification.

1. OSU Institute of Technology (OSUIT) – Okmulgee (Approx. 40 miles south of Tulsa)

  • Program: Tower Technician Certificate Program
  • Description: OSUIT offers a robust, non-credit tower technician training program designed in partnership with industry employers. The six-week course covers essential skills including tower safety, climbing and rescue, OSHA 10-hour construction safety, CPR/First Aid, RF awareness, rigging, signal person training, and more. The program is frequently offered at no cost to eligible students through OK Works funding, making it accessible for many.
  • Location: Main OSUIT campus in Okmulgee, with specialty training at partner facilities.

2. Dreambound – Tulsa

  • Program: Tower Technician Training
  • Description: Dreambound provides a platform for students to find and compare tower technician training options. Their Tulsa-based courses focus on hands-on skills such as tower climbing, safety practices, equipment installation, and maintenance. The program prepares students for industry-recognized certifications like NWSA and NATE, with flexible scheduling.
  • Location: Tulsa; check Dreambound’s website for current class listings and locations.

3. Comtrain Professional Tower Training Services – Oklahoma City (Approx. 100 miles southwest of Tulsa)

  • Program: Comtrain Tower Climber & Rescue Training
  • Description: Comtrain offers OSHA-compliant tower safety, climbing, and rescue training. Their courses include competent climber and rescuer, rigging, and RF awareness. While their main Oklahoma training site is in Oklahoma City, these programs are widely recognized by employers and may be worth the commute for Tulsa-area residents seeking advanced, industry-standard training.

If you are unable to attend in-person programs in Tulsa, some providers offer online coursework or blended learning that combines remote study with in-person practical components.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Tulsa

Tulsa’s active telecommunications landscape includes a mix of national wireless carriers, regional service companies, and construction firms specializing in tower installation and maintenance. Key employers in the area include:

  • MasTec Communications Group
    MasTec Careers
    A leading national provider of infrastructure construction for wireless carriers, MasTec regularly hires tower technicians for projects in the Tulsa region and beyond. Positions may be based out of the Tulsa metro or require regional travel.

  • Eastex Tower, LLC
    Eastex Tower Careers
    With offices serving Oklahoma and Texas, Eastex Tower specializes in tower erection, maintenance, and modifications. The company offers competitive benefits and comprehensive training for entry-level and experienced technicians.

  • ET Tower
    ET Tower Careers
    ET Tower focuses on wireless infrastructure construction and maintenance, supporting major carriers throughout the South Central United States, including the Tulsa area.

  • VIKOR
    VIKOR Careers
    VIKOR is a prominent tower services company with a regional presence in Tulsa. They offer competitive salaries, advancement opportunities, and a strong focus on safety.

Many local employers are based in or near neighborhoods such as Midtown, South Tulsa, and the industrial districts. Entry-level positions for tower technicians are frequently posted on these companies’ official careers pages. Additionally, the Green Country Workforce Development Board provides job placement and career resources for residents seeking work in telecommunications.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician training program, prospective students should be aware of several common prerequisites:

  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: The role demands excellent physical health, including the ability to climb heights, lift equipment, and work in varying weather conditions.
  • Drug Screening and Background Check: Many employers and training programs require drug screening and a background check prior to acceptance.
  • Safety Awareness: An understanding of basic safety principles, especially those related to fall protection and working at heights, is essential. Some programs may require completion of an OSHA 10-hour Construction Safety course (or provide it as part of the curriculum).

Meeting these prerequisites ensures that candidates are prepared for the physical and safety demands of the profession.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is a crucial step toward becoming a professional tower technician, as most employers require proof of industry-recognized credentials.

  • National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA):
    NWSA Certifications
    NWSA offers the Tower Technician I (TTT-1) and Tower Technician II (TTT-2) credentials, which are nationally recognized and validate essential climbing, rescue, and technical skills. Many Tulsa-area employers require or strongly prefer NWSA certification.

  • National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE):
    NATE Home
    NATE provides the NATE Climber/Rescuer certifications and sets industry safety standards. Their certifications cover fall protection, rescue procedures, and best practices for tower work.

  • Comtrain:
    Comtrain Training
    Comtrain’s courses are widely respected and meet OSHA, ANSI, and NATE standards for climber and rescuer training.

  • OSHA 10-Hour and 30-Hour Construction Safety:
    OSHA Training
    These foundational safety courses are often required prior to working on tower sites.

Note that tower technician certification is typically industry-based, not state-regulated, so credentials earned in Oklahoma are recognized nationwide.

Get Started Today

A career as a tower technician in Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers a blend of challenge, adventure, and excellent long-term job prospects in a rapidly expanding sector. With several reputable training providers, industry-driven certification options, and strong local employer demand, there has never been a better time to enter this field.

If you are ready to take the next step, reach out to one of the schools listed above and use their online forms to request more information. Many programs offer guidance on funding opportunities and job placement assistance. The path to a fulfilling career in the telecommunications industry starts with your decision to begin training—contact a program today and start your journey toward becoming a certified tower technician in Tulsa.

For insights into wages, job outlook, and national trends for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook page.