By Cristal Mojica
Bootcamp facilitators during a fiber splicing demonstration for participants
On March 10th, the latest installment of the Tribal Broadband Bootcamp kicked off in Temecula, California, with attendees representing tribes throughout California, as well as community utilities networks from across the country. Facilitators included network operators, industry professionals, and broadband experts.
The inspiring multi-day bootcamp, spanning Sunday to Wednesday, presented a more advanced curriculum than past bootcamps. Each day focused on a different connectivity technology as well as hands-on demonstrations including splicing fiber, running cable underground, and aerial fiber installation on wooden poles. Instruction also featured fiber network maintenance and troubleshooting.
Instructors show the trenches used to run fiber cable across the property underground
The introduction of fiber to the bootcamp is a recent and important one. In fact, broadband experts have acknowledged the longevity of broadband infrastructure for future generations will be best served by fiber technology, where possible.
The broadband bootcamps provide a powerful community resource and tool in support of digital sovereignty and self-determination for all tribal communities through local broadband solutions.
Michelson 20MM is proud to continue advancing our Digital Equity in Tribal Communities project, and our ongoing partnership with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and the Tribal Broadband Bootcamps.
Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.
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