Electronics and Telecommunications: Telecommunications

  • Telecommunications is a hands-on course where students install and test data cabling and equipment to build a functional telecommunications network. Topics of study include fundamentals of data transmission and networking, low-voltage copper data cabling, fiber optics cabling, wireless communications, cable testing and troubleshooting, proper tool usage, and customer service. Students can earn electronics certifications, from the Electronics Technicians Association, upon successful course competition and passing ETA’s certification exams (including the hands-on portion of the exam). 

    Grade level 11-12. One semester. Prerequisite: Algebra I with a grade of “C” or higher.+

     

    Why take this course?

    • Use the same equipment as industry professionals to construct a modern telecommunications network

    • Develop hands-on cabling skills applicable to high-tech careers

    • Install copper and fiber optic cables and wireless communications equipment

    • Hone your skills for immediate employment, industry certifications, and further education to unlock your future

     

    Electronics & Telecommunications career tree

     

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    Dan Retzinger - Instructor

     

    Mr. Retzinger has a professional teaching certificate with endorsements in biology, physical science, and math. He holds several industry certifications, including BICSI Technician, Fiber Optics Installer, General Communications Technician - Level 2, Microwave Radio Technician, Senior Certified Electronics Technician. He also has a 100-Ton U.S. Coast Guard Master License, a Commercial Driver’s License, and is certified in First Aid/CPR.

     

    In his 20+ year career with ASD, Mr. Retzinger served as a Technology Coordinator at SAVE High, and a biology and physical science teacher at East High. He got his start with electronics and telecommunications in the US Army Reserves 1991-98. While attending college, he was a production supervisor at Chart Industries from 1996-2001. He was also a charter fishing guide from 2008-16.

     

    Mr. Retzinger was awarded the ASD Denali Award in 2012, and ASD Coach of the Year in 2010. He coached the rifle team at East High for 11 years.

     

  • • Credits and Certifications

    0.5 Math

    0.5 Physical Science

    0.5 Elective

    Opportunity for direct interview with NECA/IBEW telecommunications

     

    • Skills Customer service, teamwork, business ethics and job prep skills

    Career planning and exploration

    Fundamentals of transmission

    Basic electronics

    Networking fundamentals

    Installation and termination of copper data cabling

    Fiber optic splicing

    Wireless communications equipment

    Network testing and troubleshooting

     

    • Equipment

    Digital multimeter

    Oscilloscopes

    Power supplies

    Function generators

    Soldering stations

    Audio generators

    Logic probes

    Network Cable Analyzer

    Fiber optic splicing and test equipment