February 13, 2008 -- The inaugural BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge will see information transport systems (ITS) installers testing their skills and knowledge as they compete for the title of 'Installer of the Year.' The event will be held in conjunction with the evening exhibition sessions during the 2008 BICSI Spring Conference, April 27-30, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN.
According to BICSI, competitors for the challenge will be selected from the field of entrants based on qualifying criteria such as professionalism, quality of resume, and work experience. Over the course of the three-day challenge, the entrants will compete in the following six (6) events:
Event 1: Structured Cabling Systems (SCS) Installation
Event 2: Copper Cable Terminations
Event 3: Fiber Terminations
Event 4: Cable Assembly
Event 5: Cable Troubleshooting/Technical Support
Event 6: Competency Exam
Competitors will also be scored throughout the competition on professionalism. Scores will be based on resume, orientation (attendance and promptness) attitude, safety, tools and equipment, attention to detail and aesthetics. The award ceremony will be held at 10:15 a.m., Wednesday, April 30, during the closing session of the conference.
"The Cabling Skills Challenge offers a substantial opportunity for BICSI registered installers and technicians to highlight the expertise they've gained through years of training and experience working in the ITS industry," comments Dan Morris, RCDD, chair, BICSI Installation Committee. "We are very excited to develop the event as part of our continuing effort to broaden our outreach to the heart of our industry; the installers and technicians."
"This event will be the first time that the installers will have a forum at a BICSI conference to showcase their talents," adds David M. Richards, RCDD/NTS/OSP specialist, and VP of technical training for PCC Network Solutions. "Giving the front-line BICSI installers and technicians their deserved recognition is important to promote BICSI 'best practices' and the future RCDDs of the ITS industry."
The deadline for application is March 15. For complete details, including the challenge schedule and application form, visit www.bicsi.org/skillschallenge.