Tower Technician Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Becoming a Tower Technician in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Tower technicians—sometimes referred to as tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—play a vital role in maintaining and expanding the wireless infrastructure that keeps modern society connected. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, this career path offers a unique blend of technical challenge, outdoor work, and strong compensation, making it especially appealing for those who enjoy hands-on problem solving and are comfortable working at heights.

Pursuing a career as a tower technician involves completing specialized training programs and earning industry-recognized certifications. These programs are designed to ensure that new technicians are equipped with the knowledge to safely install, maintain, and repair communications towers and associated equipment. Training can be found at local technical schools, industry-sponsored programs, and through national certification bodies.

This guide explores the tower technician career in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, highlighting essential training programs, employer opportunities, prerequisites, certification options, and key steps to get started.

About Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota, known for its growing economy, vibrant downtown, and access to natural beauty such as the iconic Falls Park. The city is a hub for healthcare, technology, and construction, making it a strategic location for telecommunications professionals. Sioux Falls provides a supportive environment for technical careers, with excellent transportation links and a strong local workforce. For more information about the city, visit the official Sioux Falls website.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls is home to a premier educational opportunity for aspiring tower technicians: the Wireless Infrastructure Technician Certification Program at Southeast Technical College. This program is designed in partnership with VIKOR Teleconstruction, a major employer in the region, to address the growing demand for skilled tower climbers and telecommunications technicians.

Southeast Technical College offers an eight-week Wireless Infrastructure Technician Certification Program, hosted at VIKOR’s dedicated training center in Sioux Falls. Students learn essential climbing skills, the fundamentals of 5G wireless technology, equipment installation, troubleshooting, and safety protocols. This program prepares graduates for the nationally recognized Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) certification. Notably, Southeast Tech’s program is one of only two in the United States to offer this certification for credit. Tuition, books, and materials are fully covered by scholarships provided by AT&T and VIKOR, making this an accessible pathway for those seeking to enter the field. Learn more about the program on Southeast Technical College’s website.

If you are looking for additional options, consider these nearby alternatives:

  • Pinnacle Career Institute in Kansas City, Missouri (approximately 350 miles from Sioux Falls) offers an online tower technician program with a required ten-day hands-on boot camp. The program includes OSHA-10, CPR and First Aid, and TTT-1 certification preparation. More details can be found on the Pinnacle Career Institute website.
  • Comtrain and Tower Safety are national providers of tower climber and safety training. They offer both in-person and online courses for Authorized Climber/Rescuer and Competent Climber/Rescuer certifications. These programs are suitable for those who prefer flexible learning options and are willing to travel for advanced training. Visit Comtrain and Tower Safety to explore course offerings and schedules.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Sioux Falls

The Sioux Falls area boasts significant employment opportunities for tower technicians, supported by both regional and national companies in the telecommunications and infrastructure sectors.

VIKOR Teleconstruction is the region’s largest and most prominent employer of tower technicians. With headquarters in Sioux Falls and additional offices nationwide, VIKOR specializes in tower construction, maintenance, and service for wireless, utility, and wind energy industries. VIKOR offers comprehensive training for new hires, competitive entry-level salaries (often over $70,000 in the first year), paid travel expenses, and advancement opportunities. Their dedicated safety and training department sets the industry standard.

ANCO provides additional opportunities for tower technicians and crew foremen in Sioux Falls and Rapid City. ANCO focuses on the construction, installation, and maintenance of communications towers and support structures, offering competitive pay and full benefits.

Other major employers in the broader region include Invenergy (with wind technician positions), as well as national wireless carriers and tower service contractors who regularly seek skilled technicians for projects in South Dakota and neighboring states.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician program, applicants should be aware of several typical prerequisites:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.
  • Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: The role demands excellent physical condition, as technicians must climb towers, lift equipment, and work in varying weather conditions.
  • Background Checks: Many employers and training programs require passing a criminal background check and drug screening.
  • Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is often necessary, and some employers prefer candidates eligible for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

These requirements ensure that technicians are prepared for the physical and safety demands of the job.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is a crucial step for anyone seeking to become a tower technician. Industry-recognized certifications demonstrate a technician’s commitment to safety and professional standards.

  • National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA): The NWSA offers the Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) and Telecommunications Tower Technician 2 (TTT-2) certifications. TTT-1 certifies foundational knowledge and safety skills, while TTT-2 is for experienced technicians who supervise others. For more information, visit the NWSA certification page.
  • ComTrain: ComTrain provides training courses for Authorized and Competent Climber/Rescuer certifications, recognized throughout the industry. Details about their programs are available at ComTrain’s website.
  • NATE STAR Initiative: The National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) STAR Initiative recognizes companies and individuals who demonstrate exceptional safety and training standards. NATE also provides resources and certification tracking for member companies. Learn more at the NATE STAR Initiative.
  • OSHA Training: OSHA 10-Hour and 30-Hour safety certifications are commonly required at both the technician and supervisory levels. These programs provide essential knowledge of workplace safety standards.

Certification in this field is typically industry-based rather than regulated by the state, ensuring that skills are portable across employers nationwide.

Get Started Today

A career as a tower technician in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a pathway to stable, well-compensated work with room for advancement in a critical and growing industry. With local training options, strong employer support, and generous scholarship opportunities, there has never been a better time to pursue this rewarding field. To take the next step, contact a training provider and begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in telecommunications.

For further details on job growth and the outlook for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, review the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook.