Tower Technician Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Becoming a Tower Technician in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A career as a tower technician, also known as a tower climber or cell tower technician, offers an engaging and rewarding pathway for individuals interested in telecommunications, technology, and working outdoors. Tower technicians play a vital role in installing, maintaining, and repairing the cellular towers and telecommunications infrastructure that keep society connected. The profession requires a blend of technical knowledge, physical stamina, and a strong commitment to safety.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, stands out as an excellent location to start a career in this field. With competitive wages—the highest average in the nation for this occupation—robust job demand, and several pathways for training and certification, Milwaukee offers a supportive environment for aspiring tower technicians. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to become a tower technician in Milwaukee, highlighting local training options, certification requirements, and employment opportunities.

About Milwaukee

Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest city, situated along the western shore of Lake Michigan. Known for its historic neighborhoods, vibrant cultural scene, and iconic landmarks such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum, the city serves as a major economic and technological hub in the Midwest. Milwaukee’s neighborhoods, including the Historic Third Ward, Bay View, and Riverwest, offer diverse living and employment opportunities. To learn more about the city’s resources and community, visit the official Milwaukee website.

As a center of commerce and industry, Milwaukee is home to a broad range of employers in the telecommunications and technology sectors, making it an ideal place to launch or advance a tower technician career.

Tower Technician Training Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Formal training is essential for a successful start in the tower technician field. While Milwaukee has limited providers offering dedicated tower technician programs within the city limits, several reputable training centers are available nearby:

1. Blackhawk Technical College – Janesville, WI (approximately 75 miles from Milwaukee)

Blackhawk Technical College offers a comprehensive Telecommunications Tower Technician program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions. This program includes classroom instruction, hands-on climbing and safety practice, and industry-recognized certification preparation. Students gain experience in equipment installation, tower climbing, and safety protocols.

2. NWTC (Northeast Wisconsin Technical College) – Green Bay, WI (approximately 120 miles from Milwaukee)

NWTC provides a Telecommunications Tower Technician certificate that focuses on practical skills, fall protection, rescue techniques, and RF safety. The curriculum blends classroom learning with field exercises to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.

3. Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development – Registered Apprenticeships (Milwaukee and statewide)

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development coordinates registered apprenticeship programs for telecommunications occupations, including tower technician roles. Apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, offering an alternative to traditional school-based programs. Apprenticeships are available with various telecommunications employers in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin.

If none of these options are accessible, some national training organizations, such as Comtrain, offer tower climber safety and rescue certification courses at locations throughout the Midwest. Additionally, many employers provide in-house or sponsored training for new hires.

Tower Technician Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s telecommunications industry features a broad array of employers offering opportunities for tower technicians at all career stages. Major companies and contractors include:

  • Pieper Electric (Careers Page), headquartered in Milwaukee, is a leading electrical and communications contractor. Their wireless and telecommunications division provides comprehensive tower services, including installation, maintenance, and upgrades. Pieper Electric is located in the Menomonee Valley neighborhood.

  • MasTec Communications Group (Careers Page), with operations in Milwaukee, is a national leader in telecommunications infrastructure, employing tower technicians for projects throughout Wisconsin. MasTec has a strong presence in the Greater Milwaukee area and frequently hires for tower climbing positions.

  • Verizon Wireless (Careers Page), AT&T (Careers Page), and T-Mobile (Careers Page) maintain extensive network infrastructure in Milwaukee and regularly recruit tower technicians either directly or through local contractors.

  • Nsight Tower (Official Site), though based in northeastern Wisconsin, operates towers throughout the region and provides employment opportunities for tower technicians in the broader Milwaukee area.

These organizations offer a range of positions, from entry-level tower technician roles to advanced and supervisory positions. Many also provide ongoing training, career advancement, and professional development opportunities.

Prerequisites for Tower Technician Programs

To enroll in a tower technician training program or apprenticeship in Milwaukee, candidates typically need to meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum Age: 18 years or older.
  • Education: High school diploma or GED.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to climb towers and work at heights, lift 50 pounds or more, and withstand challenging outdoor conditions.
  • Background Check and Drug Screening: Many employers and programs require a clean background check and drug-free status.
  • Valid Driver’s License: Required by most employers for job site travel.

Physical and mental resilience are critical, as the job often involves climbing hundreds of feet and working in variable weather.

Tower Technician Certification Options

Certification is crucial for career advancement and safety compliance in the tower technician field. The most recognized certification options include:

  • NWSA (National Wireless Safety Alliance): The NWSA offers the Telecommunications Tower Technician 1 (TTT-1) and 2 (TTT-2) certifications, widely accepted by employers nationwide.

  • ComTrain: ComTrain provides industry-standard tower climbing safety and rescue training, which is often required by employers.

  • NATE (National Association of Tower Erectors): NATE supports a variety of training and credentialing programs, including the Climber/Rescuer Training Standard (CRTS).

  • OSHA 10/30 Hour Construction Safety: OSHA-authorized safety training is a common requirement for tower technicians.

Certification is typically industry-based, not regulated by the state of Wisconsin. Maintaining current credentials through continuing education is essential for ongoing employment and safety.

Get Started Today

A tower technician career in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers outstanding wages, career growth, and the chance to be part of the infrastructure that connects communities. With multiple training paths, strong employer demand, and the highest average pay in the country, now is an excellent time to enter this field. Review local training programs, ensure you meet the basic requirements, and reach out to a school or apprenticeship sponsor to begin your journey. Take the first step toward a rewarding and essential career as a tower technician in Milwaukee.

For detailed information on job outlook and statistics for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.