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Lincoln Trail College’s 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 — a key process in building and maintaining broadband infrastructure.
“The Broadband Telecom program focuses on three vital career paths: IT and Networking, Combination Technician, and Outside Plant Operations,” said Dennis York, lead instructor of LTC’s Broadband Telecom program. “This donated equipment is essential for setting aerial cable on pole spans. It allows students to train with the same tools they’ll use in the field while preventing damage to cable during installation.”
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.
“Once 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,” York said. “Training 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.”
The donation came through Alger, whose career success now comes full circle back to the program where he began.
“Having an alum reach out with a donation means something special,” York said. “They began a career and can now give back to it. In part, they’ve helped prepare future alumni for their careers. It humbles me knowing they are now the new generation of technicians connecting America.”
York also credited Metro Communications for its continued partnership with the program.
“Partner companies like Metro Communications believe in this program and return every year seeking our graduates,” he said. “Their support shows they recognize LTC is producing skilled, motivated employees. It also strengthens industry partnerships that keep our curriculum current.”
As alumni continue to return with support, York said it reflects both community investment and pride.
“It’s 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.”
