Tower Technician Programs in Arlington, Texas

Becoming a Tower Technician in Arlington, Texas

Embarking on a career as a tower technician in Arlington, Texas, offers the opportunity to join the backbone of modern communications. Tower technicians—also known as tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wireless communication equipment on towers, rooftops, and other elevated structures. This profession demands a mix of technical knowledge, physical fitness, and a commitment to safety, as it often involves working at significant heights and in various weather conditions.

Aspiring tower technicians can pursue several education and training paths, including formal certification programs, hands-on technical training, apprenticeships, and industry-recognized credentials. This guide outlines the steps to becoming a tower technician in Arlington, explores local and regional training options, provides an overview of employment opportunities, and explains the certification process.

About Arlington, Texas

Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Arlington, Texas is a dynamic city known for its thriving business community, cultural attractions, and key role as a telecommunications hub in North Texas. Arlington is home to major landmarks such as AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and the University of Texas at Arlington. The city offers a range of neighborhoods, from the bustling Entertainment District to family-friendly areas like North Arlington and Dalworthington Gardens, providing residents with access to both urban amenities and suburban comfort. Its central location makes it an ideal spot for those seeking careers in the telecommunications and wireless infrastructure sectors.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Arlington, Texas

Arlington and the surrounding North Texas region offer several options for tower technician training. While few programs are located directly in Arlington, nearby institutions provide accessible, high-quality education for aspiring tower climbers.

1. BTS Training – Arlington, TX

BTS Training is based in Arlington and specializes in hands-on courses for tower technicians. The program covers utility pole and tower climbing, bucket truck and pole top rescue, confined space awareness and entry, and more. Located within Arlington itself, BTS offers practical training for those ready to enter the workforce quickly.

2. Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) – College Station, TX (Approx. 165 miles from Arlington)

TEEX provides a 120-hour Tower Technician Level One course combining classroom instruction with field exercises and hands-on scenarios. The program includes certifications in Competent Climber, Tower Rescue, Basic Rigging, Capstan Hoist, and RF Awareness. TEEX’s course is approved for VA benefits, making it a strong choice for veterans. The program is held in College Station, but its reputation and comprehensive approach attract students from across Texas.

3. Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI) – Kansas City, MO (Hybrid/Online with 10-Day Boot Camp, travel required)

Pinnacle Career Institute offers a hybrid Tower Technician program featuring 30 weeks of online coursework paired with an 80-hour, 10-day in-person boot camp in Kansas City. Students earn OSHA-10, CPR, and First Aid certifications and complete practical exams. While PCI is located outside Texas, the online format and included travel/lodging make it accessible to Arlington residents.

If you are seeking programs closer to Arlington, reach out to Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County (workforcesolutions.net) for guidance on local training resources and funding options.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Arlington

Tower technicians in Arlington benefit from proximity to major telecommunications companies, wireless carriers, and infrastructure contractors operating throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Here are some key employers and resources:

AT&T — Dallas HQ, with regional offices near Arlington

AT&T Careers is a leading wireless carrier with a significant presence in North Texas. The company frequently hires tower technicians, field technicians, and network specialists.

Crown Castle — Dallas Office (Uptown)

Crown Castle Careers manages wireless infrastructure, including cell towers and fiber networks, across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. They recruit for tower technician and maintenance roles.

SBA Communications — Regional Office

SBA Communications Careers is a national tower owner with infrastructure throughout Texas and the Arlington area.

Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County — Various Locations

Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County partners with local employers and offers job placement assistance, resume support, and hiring events for tower technician and related roles.

These organizations have facilities or regional operations near Arlington, with job sites across neighborhoods such as Downtown Arlington, North Arlington, and surrounding areas.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Becoming a tower technician requires meeting several prerequisites prior to enrolling in a training program or starting work:

  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Minimum Age: Most programs require participants to be at least 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: Candidates must be able to lift heavy equipment, climb towers, and work at heights in various weather conditions.
  • Background Checks: Many employers and programs require a clean background check and may conduct drug screening.
  • Valid Driver’s License: A valid license and clean driving record are often required due to travel between job sites.

Some programs may have additional prerequisites, so check with your chosen school or training provider for details.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is essential for employment and career advancement as a tower technician. The industry recognizes several key certifications:

  • NWSA (National Wireless Safety Alliance):
    NWSA offers the Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) and Technician 2 (TTT-2) certifications, focusing on safety, technical skills, and professional standards. These credentials are widely accepted by major employers.

  • ComTrain:
    ComTrain provides Competent Climber, Competent Rescuer, and Rigging certifications adhering to ANSI and OSHA standards.

  • OSHA-10:
    Many entry-level programs include OSHA-10 safety certification, required for nearly all tower climber roles.

  • RF (Radio Frequency) Awareness:
    RF Awareness certification is typically required by employers to ensure safety around high-frequency transmitters.

  • CPR & First Aid:
    Emergency care certifications are essential for onsite safety and are included in most tower technician training programs.

Note: Tower technician certification is industry-based and not regulated by the state of Texas. Employers may have additional or specialized certification requirements depending on the job.

Get Started Today

A career as a tower technician in Arlington, Texas, offers stability, competitive wages, and the chance to work on the front lines of wireless connectivity. Training programs are available both locally and regionally, and strong industry demand means job opportunities are abundant. If you are ready to take the next step, contact a school or training provider today and begin your journey toward a rewarding telecommunications career.

For more information about job outlook and national employment statistics for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook page.