As part of efforts to bolster workforce development in the CNMI, the governor’s broadband bootcamp will certify 269 graduates from Saipan, Tinian and Rota in fiber optic and broadband technologies.
In the 19-week program, which ran from January to May, participants on all three islands learned about fiber optic deployment, broadband networks, trenching, as well as soft skills including time management, fundamentals of Microsoft Excel, emotional intelligence and customer service excellence.
“We are proud to celebrate the graduation of 269 hard-working men and women from the governor’s broadband bootcamp — a critical step in strengthening our workforce and expanding broadband expertise across Saipan, Tinian and Rota,” said Glen Hunter, special assistant for the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development program. “This entire workforce program and our broader focus on broadband development are direct results of Gov. Palacios’ vision and leadership. The governor has laid out a well-thought-out plan to establish the foundation needed for a thriving digital economy in the CNMI, and this bootcamp is one more milestone in that journey. By equipping participants with both technical skills in fiber optic and broadband technologies and essential soft skills, we are helping build the future talent that will power our islands’ digital transformation.”
Andrea Rem Ada, a participant in the program, said the bootcamp was a meaningful and valuable experience.
“Participating in the governor’s broadband bootcamp has been a meaningful and valuable experience,” Ada said. “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to gain valuable technical skills in fiber optics and broadband technologies, along with essential soft skills like time management and customer service. This program has opened new doors for me and strengthened my confidence to contribute to the growth of broadband access in our community. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to help connect our islands and support the CNMI’s digital future.”
Northern Marianas College President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, EdD, said the college is proud to be both a partner and the managing entity for the governor’s broadband bootcamp.
“This truly is a milestone for local workforce development in the CNMI,” Deleon Guerrero said. “Graduating 269 individuals from Saipan, Tinian and Rota is a huge accomplishment and reflects our collective commitment to proactively developing a skilled and future-ready workforce that can meet the evolving needs of the economy. The college remains dedicated to delivering high-quality and relevant training opportunities that empower our people to meaningfully get employed and provide for their families. We celebrate every graduate for their months of hard work and for taking this bold step forward in their professional journey.”
The 269 graduates are set to graduate this week, with the Tinian cohort graduating June 10, the Rota cohort June 12 and the Saipan cohorts June 14.
Funded through a Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment grant from the CNMI Office of the Governor and the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Program, the bootcamp is administered by Northern Marianas College’s Community Development Institute in conjunction with the Northern Marianas Technical Institute, Island Training Solutions and the CNMI Department of Labor – Workforce Development Agency.
A Saipan participant of the Governor’s Broadband Bootcamp prepares fiber optic cable as part of his final exam.
A Saipan participant of the Governor’s Broadband Bootcamp prepares fiber optic cable as part of his final exam.