Wireless Service Technicians

High School

Take classes that will prepare you for further schooling in electronics. Physics classes provide the background necessary to understand the theory of electronics. Wireless service technician jobs are heavily computer-oriented, so computer classes are also excellent choices. Other important classes are those that will provide basic abilities needed in college and in the workplace—such as English, speech, and mathematics courses.

Postsecondary Training

A two-year associate's degree in a technical field is the minimum educational level needed to become a wireless service technician. Many technicians obtain degrees in electronics or electronic technology. Course work includes classes and laboratory work in circuit theory, digital electronics, microprocessors, computer troubleshooting, telecommunications, and data communications technology. Other students might opt for degrees in telecommunications management or computer science. Take classes on local area networks, advanced networking technologies, network management, and programming. Computer science courses cover  programming, operating systems, computer languages, and network architecture. Most wireless service technicians have two-year degrees, but some may have four-year degrees in computer science, telecommunications, electronic engineering, or other similar subjects.

The National Coalition for Telecommunications Education and Learning (NACTEL), in partnership with Pace university, offers degree programs in telecommunications: https://www.nactel.org.

No matter what sort of educational background new technicians have, they have to learn about the specific equipment used by their employers. Most wireless carriers send their technicians through formal education programs, which are typically offered by equipment manufacturers. In these programs, new technicians learn the operating specifics of the equipment they will be maintaining. A new technician is usually given a smaller number of cell sites to manage when he or she first begins and may be paired with a more experienced technician who can answer questions and conduct on-the-job training.

Certification

The NACTEL, in partnership with Pace University, also offers introductory and advanced certification programs in telecommunications technology to those who meet education requirements.