Tower Technician Programs in Norfolk, Virginia

Becoming a Tower Technician in Norfolk, Virginia

Considering a career as a tower technician in Norfolk, Virginia? Tower technicians—also known as tower climbers, cell tower technicians, or telecommunications tower technicians—play a crucial role in building and maintaining the wireless infrastructure that powers modern communication. These professionals install, repair, and upgrade equipment on communication towers, often working at great heights and in diverse weather conditions.

There are several education and training paths for aspiring tower technicians. Some enter the field through specialized trade schools or technical colleges, while others pursue apprenticeships or on-the-job training with telecommunications companies. Industry-recognized certifications, such as those from the National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) or ComTrain, are essential for employment and advancement in this high-demand sector.

This guide outlines the steps to become a tower technician in Norfolk, highlights local training options, and explains certification and employment opportunities in the area.

About Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk is a dynamic coastal city located in southeastern Virginia and serves as a key economic and military hub for the Hampton Roads region. Known for its historic neighborhoods, thriving waterfront, and the presence of Naval Station Norfolk—the world’s largest naval base—Norfolk offers a wealth of cultural and professional opportunities. Explore more about the city on the official City of Norfolk website.

Neighborhoods such as Ghent, Ocean View, Downtown, and Larchmont are popular with residents and professionals alike. The city’s mix of urban amenities and proximity to waterways makes it an attractive place to live and work, especially for those entering telecommunications careers.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Norfolk, Virginia

While Norfolk itself does not have dedicated tower technician programs within city limits, several reputable training centers and schools are accessible within the broader Hampton Roads region and nearby cities. Here are three options for those seeking tower technician training:

1. Tower Tech Training – Virginia Beach, VA (Approx. 20 minutes from Norfolk)

  • Location: Virginia Beach, VA
  • Description: Virginia Beach offers tower technician programs that provide hands-on training in telecommunications equipment, climbing safety, fall protection, and technical installation. These programs typically span 19 weeks and cost around $10,065.
  • Program Details: Students receive comprehensive instruction in safety protocols, rigging, RF (radio frequency) awareness, and tower maintenance procedures. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification exams.
  • Learn more: Dreambound – Tower Technician Training Virginia Beach

2. Pinnacle Career Institute – Online + Kansas City Bootcamp

  • Location: Online coursework plus a 10-day residential bootcamp in Kansas City, MO (travel covered)
  • Description: Pinnacle Career Institute’s 30-week program combines online learning with practical, hands-on experience during an intensive bootcamp. The curriculum covers OSHA-10, CPR, First Aid, and the NWSA Telecommunication Tower Technician Level 1 Practical Exam.
  • Program Details: Tuition includes travel, lodging, and local transportation for the bootcamp. The program is designed for entry-level tower technicians and offers a direct pathway to industry certification.
  • Learn more: Pinnacle Career Institute Tower Technician Program

3. ABC Virginia – Telecom & Low Voltage Apprenticeship (Chesapeake, VA; Approx. 20 minutes from Norfolk)

  • Location: Chesapeake, VA
  • Description: The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Virginia chapter offers a Telecom & Low Voltage Apprenticeship program, which includes training relevant to telecommunications tower work. Apprentices gain experience in installation, safety, and technical troubleshooting.
  • Program Details: This program blends classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training, helping students build a strong foundation in the telecommunications trades.
  • Learn more: ABC Virginia Apprenticeship Programs

Note: If you are willing to commute or temporarily relocate, additional tower technician training programs are available in Richmond, VA (approximately 1.5 hours from Norfolk).

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Norfolk

Several major telecommunications companies, tower service providers, and wireless carriers operate in the Norfolk area, offering both entry-level and advanced positions for tower technicians.

1. Verizon Wireless – Norfolk Area

  • Location: Multiple locations, including Downtown Norfolk and nearby Chesapeake
  • About: Verizon is one of the nation’s largest wireless carriers, frequently hiring telecommunications tower technicians for network maintenance and expansion projects.
  • Employment Opportunities: Visit the Verizon Careers page for current job openings.

2. Crown Castle – Virginia Beach/Norfolk

  • Location: Virginia Beach (serving the broader Hampton Roads region)
  • About: Crown Castle is a national leader in communications infrastructure, managing towers, fiber networks, and small cell solutions. The company regularly hires tower technicians and related roles in the region.
  • Employment Opportunities: Explore positions on the Crown Castle Careers page.

3. Cox Communications – Norfolk

  • Location: Norfolk (near Ghent and Downtown)
  • About: Cox Communications provides telecommunications services throughout Hampton Roads and employs technicians to support its wireless and fiber-optic networks.
  • Employment Opportunities: See current openings on the Cox Communications Careers page.

Additional employment prospects can be found with local contractors and infrastructure companies, including those affiliated with the Hampton Roads Workforce Council.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a tower technician program or pursuing a job in this field, candidates should meet the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED is typically required.
  • Age: Most programs require participants to be at least 18 years old.
  • Physical Fitness: Applicants must be physically capable of climbing towers, lifting heavy equipment (up to 50 lbs), and working at heights for extended periods.
  • Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is necessary due to frequent travel between job sites.
  • Background Check & Drug Screening: Expect background checks and drug testing as part of the enrollment or hiring process.
  • Comfort with Heights: A strong ability to work safely at significant heights is essential.

Meeting these prerequisites ensures you can safely and effectively complete training and succeed in the tower technician profession.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is a key requirement for employment and advancement in the telecommunications tower industry. The following are the most recognized certifications:

National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA)

  • Certifications: Telecommunications Tower Technician Level 1 (TTT-1) and Level 2 (TTT-2)
  • Description: NWSA certifications validate your technical skills, safety knowledge, and ability to perform tower work. These industry-recognized credentials are often required by employers.
  • More information: NWSA Official Website

ComTrain

  • Certifications: Authorized Climber/Rescuer, Competent Climber/Rescuer, Competent Rigging ANSI 10.48
  • Description: ComTrain provides both entry-level and advanced tower safety certifications, including courses on fall protection, rescue, rigging, and radio frequency (RF) safety.
  • More information: ComTrain Official Website

OSHA Training

  • Certifications: OSHA 10-Hour and 30-Hour Construction Safety cards
  • Description: OSHA training is a foundational requirement, covering essential safety protocols and hazard recognition for construction environments.
  • More information: OSHA Construction Training Overview

Most tower technician certifications are industry-based, rather than regulated by the state. Employers in Norfolk and the broader telecommunications field recognize NWSA and ComTrain certifications as evidence of professional competence and adherence to national safety standards.

Get Started Today

A career as a tower technician in Norfolk, Virginia, offers the chance to work in a growing industry with competitive wages and strong advancement potential. By meeting entry requirements, completing an accredited training program, and earning industry-recognized certifications, you can launch a rewarding career supporting the region’s critical communications infrastructure.

Take the next step by contacting a local school or training provider and exploring enrollment options. Completing your training and certification will open doors to job opportunities with leading telecommunications companies in Norfolk and beyond.

For more information about the job outlook for telecommunications tower technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers page.