Date Posted: June 24, 2025
Southern Crescent Technical College’s Dundee Building buzzed with energy on June 23–24, 2025, as students, career changers, and tech enthusiasts gathered for a hands-on, two-day Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Training event. Hosted in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, the training drew fifteen participants eager to dive into one of the fastest-growing fields in tech infrastructure.
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, participants learned to master the precision and technique behind fiber optic splicing using real-world tools and equipment. The guidance from industry experts—and the cutting-edge resources provided—offered a rare opportunity for attendees to gain valuable, job-ready skills in just two days.
“At AWS, we’ve always recognized the transformative value of skills development and the lasting benefits and opportunities it brings to local workforces where we operate,” stated Roger Wehner, VP of Economic Development for AWS. “We’re excited that our AWS Fusion Splicing program is creating new professional avenues for participants. Those trained in fiber optic installation and maintenance will be equipped to take on essential roles constructing the foundation necessary to connect our nation for the digital era.”
With zero cost to participants, provided meals, and no prior experience required beyond a short prep course, the event proved to be not only educational but truly accessible—demonstrating SCTC’s ongoing commitment to workforce development in high-demand industries.
In January, Amazon Web Services announced plans to invest $11 billion dollars into Georgia to bring new data centers in Butts County and Douglas County which will create at least 550 high-skilled jobs. Free training programs like this one help train individuals in new fusion splicing techniques and equipment to prepare for the opening of the data centers.
“We are pleased and proud that Amazon Web Services, a world technology leader, has chosen to locate new data centers in Butts County,” said Russ Crumbley, chairman of the Butts County Board of Commissioners. “Their investment will be the most significant in Butts County history, and represents a truly collaborative effort for more than a year by the Butts County Board of Commissioners, the Development Authority of Butts County, the Butts County Water and Sewer Authority, and the Butts County School System.”
The success of the event has sparked interest in offering future sessions—and the next generation of fiber professionals may already be preparing to splice their way into the industry.