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Lincoln Trail College鈥檚 Broadband Telecom program has received a significant equipment donation from Metro Communications, made possible through program alumnus Collin Alger, a 2025 graduate now employed by the company. The contribution provides critical Outside Plant Construction tools that will expand hands-on learning opportunities and strengthen workforce preparation for future students.
The donated equipment includes cable rollers, cable blocks and over-lash guides used to cradle fiber and copper cables during aerial installation on pole lines. The tools hold cable in place and prevent damage before it is permanently lashed to supporting strand lines 鈥 a key process in building and maintaining broadband infrastructure.
鈥淭he Broadband Telecom program focuses on three vital career paths: IT and Networking, Combination Technician, and Outside Plant Operations,鈥 said Dennis York, lead instructor of LTC鈥檚 Broadband Telecom program. 鈥淭his donated equipment is essential for setting aerial cable on pole spans. It allows students to train with the same tools they鈥檒l use in the field while preventing damage to cable during installation.鈥
Prior to the donation, the program had only a limited number of light-duty rollers, restricting the distance and cable weight students could work with during lab exercises. The new equipment will allow heavier cable installations and longer pole spans, expanding the realism and depth of hands-on training.
York said training that mirrors real-world conditions is critical in an industry where safety and precision are essential.
鈥淥nce students graduate, they are leaving with skills and knowledge of Outside Plant Construction because we require them to complete real career duties before they leave,鈥 York said. 鈥淭raining in class as the work applies to the career field is essential. This profession involves dangerous situations, and improperly trained technicians can be injured. Hands-on preparation is vital.鈥
The donation came through Alger, whose career success now comes full circle back to the program where he began.
鈥淗aving an alum reach out with a donation means something special,鈥 York said. 鈥淭hey began a career and can now give back to it. In part, they鈥檝e helped prepare future alumni for their careers. It humbles me knowing they are now the new generation of technicians connecting America.鈥
York also credited Metro Communications for its continued partnership with the program.
鈥淧artner companies like Metro Communications believe in this program and return every year seeking our graduates,鈥 he said. 鈥淭heir support shows they recognize LTC is producing skilled, motivated employees. It also strengthens industry partnerships that keep our curriculum current.鈥
As alumni continue to return with support, York said it reflects both community investment and pride.
鈥淚t鈥檚 humbling and a huge sense of pride seeing our alumni succeed, bring vital services to their communities and give back to the program that helped launch their careers.鈥