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We dig into the true cost of training and why a BICSI Authorized Training Facility can lift quality, win bids, and cut rework. Teresa Johnson shares what it takes to build one, from vendor‑agnostic walls to T3 prep, plus the mistakes to avoid.

• what a BICSI ATF is and why it matters
• differences between suitcase training and building in‑house
• Teresa’s path from field tech to trainer
• union and non‑union training strengths
• cost drivers and how to lower them with partners
• BICSI requirements, staged approvals, and inspections
• trainer certifications, T350 and T3 process
• operational checklists, calibration, and scheduling
• demand cycles and who pays for training time
• workforce impact, fewer callbacks, stronger bids
• top build mistakes and multi‑vendor sourcing
• choosing eight seats vs sixteen seats
• where to start and how to contact BICSI

If you find value in this content, would you click on that QR code right there? You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me. After hours, of course, to help support the show. You can even buy Let's Talk Cabling t-shirts

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

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We dig into why outside plant is surging, how micro certifications work, and what designers and installers need to know to stay current and safe. Bob Herdling shares decades of insight on codes, methods, and the real‑world choices that make or break a build.

• OSP as the backbone of ICT
• Why broadband funding and BEAD drive demand
• Misconceptions about wireless versus fiber backbones
• Safety, codes, and NESC as core constraints
• Differences among aerial, underground, and direct buried
• Micro certifications structure and who they help
• Design and installation alignment through shared practices
• Why hands‑on OSP labs are complex and risky
• Career gains from targeted credentials
• Winter conference themes, formats, and networking
• Youth outreach and global volunteer growth

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You can buy me a cup of coffee. You can even schedule a 15-minute one-on-one call with me after hours, of course.

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD

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We honor Phil Klingensmith and then dive into why standards make low-voltage work reliable, fast to service and future friendly. We unpack color codes, 568A vs 568B, fiber cleaning myths, splicer maintenance, MHz vs Mb, and encoding schemes with clear, practical advice.

• roots of color codes in Bell system and why they still matter
• 568A vs 568B framed by pins, pairs and channels
• why pair splitting creates crosstalk and failures
• USOC, tip and ring, and mnemonic aids
• fiber cleaning methods and why canned air falls short
• fusion splicer troubleshooting and electrode care
• megahertz vs megabits using the highway analogy
• encoding basics: RZ, NRZ and Manchester timing
• RFIs, submittals, RFQs and RFPs clarified
• estimator vs project manager responsibilities and skills

Please consider donating: There’s a QR code on the screen or hit me up for the link. Help fuel the podcast for next year and support the Costa Rica masterclass. Not a 501c3. Make sure you do something to make this industry a little better, like Phil did

Support the show

Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com

Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH
#CBRCDD #RCDD