A $3 million Google investment will bring no-cost fiber optic and network installer training to Ivy Tech Community College, with programs planned in Bloomington, Fort Wayne and Valparaiso.
The gift goes to the Ivy Tech Foundation and is intended to prepare students for jobs in fiber optic installation, network infrastructure and related fields, according to the announcement reported Oct. 30.
In Bloomington, the short-term training class will combine hands-on instruction with industry skills aimed at helping participants enter the workforce. Ivy Tech Bloomington also plans to work with local employers and community partners on career pathways.
Adam Gross, vice chancellor for Career Link at Ivy Tech Bloomington, said the investment creates new opportunities in the region and helps address workforce needs by connecting residents to no-cost training for high-demand tech careers.
Google community relations manager Kelly Rentschler said expanding high-speed broadband requires a skilled local workforce as well as investment in technology. More information is available through Ivy Tech's fiber training page.
