Tower Technician Programs in Frisco, Texas
Becoming a Tower Technician in Frisco, Texas
The telecommunications industry is rapidly expanding, and the demand for skilled tower technicians—also known as tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—continues to rise. These professionals play a vital role in constructing, maintaining, and repairing the cellular towers and wireless infrastructure that power modern communications. For individuals in Frisco, Texas, pursuing a career as a tower technician offers a pathway into a high-demand, well-compensated field with significant opportunities for advancement and specialization.
This guide provides an overview of what it means to be a tower technician, the education and training paths available, and the resources specific to Frisco, Texas. Whether you are just starting your career or considering a change, understanding the training programs, certification requirements, and local employment landscape is essential for making informed decisions.
About Frisco, Texas
Frisco, Texas, is a thriving city located in Collin and Denton counties, part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Known for its robust economic growth, family-friendly neighborhoods, and major attractions such as The Star (the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters), Stonebriar Centre, and the National Videogame Museum, Frisco has established itself as a hub for business and innovation. The city’s official website, friscotexas.gov, offers resources for residents and businesses, reflecting a commitment to economic development and workforce readiness.
The presence of major technology, logistics, and telecommunications companies in the region, as well as proximity to Dallas and Plano, makes Frisco an excellent location for those seeking careers in telecommunications infrastructure and tower maintenance.
Tower Technician Training Programs in Frisco, Texas
While Frisco itself does not currently host a dedicated tower technician training program, residents have access to industry-recognized programs in the broader Dallas-Fort Worth region and across Texas. Here are the top recommended options closest to Frisco:
1. Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) – College Station, TX
- Distance from Frisco: Approximately 180 miles (3 hours by car)
- Program: Tower Technician Level One (CEL100)
- Overview: TEEX offers a comprehensive 120-hour program combining classroom instruction and hands-on field exercises. Students learn tower climbing, rescue, equipment operation, and safety procedures. The course is designed for both newcomers and those seeking industry certification. TEEX provides all necessary safety equipment except climbing boots.
- Tuition: $6,500 plus a $75 application fee
- Schedule: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 11 consecutive days
- Certifications Earned: Entry-level tower technician, OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety, CPR/First Aid, and more.
2. Airstreams Renewables, Inc. – Multiple Texas Locations
- Distance from Frisco: Locations vary; Dallas-area options available
- Program: Renewable Energy and Communications Tower Technician Program
- Overview: This 240-hour program is designed for veterans, transitioning military, and civilians. It covers tower climbing, rescue, rigging, RF safety, and more, leading to multiple industry-recognized credentials. Approved for VA and military education benefits.
- Employment Rate: 88.3% for recent graduates
- Certifications Earned: Authorized Climber/Rescuer, OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, Crane Rigging, Capstan Hoist, and others.
3. Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI) – Kansas City, MO (Online with Boot Camp)
- Distance from Frisco: 10 days in Kansas City, MO (travel required)
- Program: Tower Technician Program
- Overview: PCI offers a 30-week online program with a required 10-day hands-on boot camp. The curriculum covers tower climbing, rescue, safety, and technical skills. Graduates are prepared for the National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) Technician Level 1 Practical exam.
- Certifications Earned: OSHA 10, CPR/First Aid, NWSA TTT-1 eligibility.
Local College Resource
Collin College (Preston Ridge Campus, Frisco) does not currently offer a dedicated tower technician program but provides workforce development resources, safety training, and career services that may complement your training path. Learn more about Collin College Workforce Programs.
Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Frisco
Frisco and the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth area host a range of major telecommunications, tower service, and wireless infrastructure employers. These companies often seek trained and certified tower technicians for installation, maintenance, and upgrade projects.
AT&T (Careers)
- One of the largest wireless carriers in the U.S., AT&T has significant operations in the Dallas area, including network operations and field service teams.
Crown Castle (Careers)
- Crown Castle is a leading provider of shared communications infrastructure, including towers, small cells, and fiber. The company maintains assets throughout the Dallas area.
Mastec Network Solutions (Careers)
- Specializes in wireless infrastructure construction and maintenance, with offices and projects across Texas.
Vertical Bridge (Careers)
- One of the largest private owners of wireless communications infrastructure in the U.S., with regional opportunities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Wireless Infrastructure Services (Careers)
- Provides tower, fiber, and wireless network services across Texas, often hiring for field technician and climber roles.
Many of these companies have field offices in Dallas, Plano, and Richardson—just a short drive from Frisco. Most list open tower technician and climber roles on their official careers pages.
Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs
To enroll in a tower technician training program, candidates should expect the following prerequisites:
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or GED (recommended)
- Physical Fitness: Ability to climb towers, lift up to 50 pounds, and work at heights
- Background Check: Many programs and employers require criminal background checks and drug screenings
- Valid Driver’s License: Required by most employers due to frequent travel between sites
- Medical Clearance: Some programs may require proof of physical ability or a physician’s release to participate in tower climbing activities
Tower Technician Certification Options
Certification is crucial for employment and advancement as a tower technician. The most widely recognized certifications include:
- NWSA (National Wireless Safety Alliance): Offers the Telecommunications Tower Technician (TTT-1 and TTT-2) certifications. These are recognized nationwide and often required by employers.
- ComTrain: Provides Authorized Climber/Rescuer and Competent Climber/Rescuer courses, as well as rigging and advanced rescue training.
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety: Required for all tower site personnel; the OSHA 10-Hour card demonstrates basic safety knowledge.
- CPR/First Aid: Typically included in training programs and required for most jobs.
- RF/EME Awareness: Safety training on radiofrequency hazards, often included in comprehensive programs.
Certification is generally industry-based rather than state-regulated. Employers may also require specialized certifications in rigging, rescue, and fall protection, depending on the job.
Get Started Today
A career as a tower technician in Frisco, Texas, offers strong earning potential, job security, and the chance to work at the forefront of wireless communications. Completing a recognized training program and obtaining industry certifications will open doors to exciting opportunities with major employers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond.
Take the first step by reaching out to a training provider listed above. Use the school’s online forms or contact methods to request more information, discuss program details, and begin your application. Your future as a tower technician starts with the right training—contact a school today to launch your new career.
For more information about the job outlook and national statistics, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers page.
