Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1136395
FEATURE Page 3 BICSI has always been a provider of top-notch, innovative products and services that strive to educate professionals in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry. If you're a novice structured cabling installer or a seasoned telecommunications designer, there are training resources to guide you along your career path. BICSI's Registered Telecommunications Project Manager™ (RTPM™) credential was established in 2012 after it became evident that there was an opportunity to bridge a communica- tions gap between structured cabling technicians and designers. A BICSI RTPM oversees and coordinates the interaction between designers, engineers, installers and technicians when new ICT projects are being developed or are undergoing construction. RTPM credential holders can understand and apply a vast col- lection of telecommunications project management principles, concepts, tools and technology. BICSI Past President Russ Oliver, RCDD, DCDC, ESS, NTS, RTPM, played a major role in the creation of the RTPM credential. "As you grow in the ICT industry, you have the opportunity to do many different things. It's typical for an installer or tech to just install cable early in their career. But, if you want to advance, you have to move on to project management and/or design," Russ said. "The RTPM program was developed to provide techni- cians an opportunity to grow from everyday field work, achieve more recognition in the industry and still have the opportunity for hands-on field experiences." From Technician to Project Manager: BICSI's Education Path An interview with BICSI Past President Russ Oliver, RCDD, DCDC, ESS, NTS, RTPM Russ added that an RTPM credential opens a career path to more diverse job opportunities in the industry, including a pathway to becoming an ICT designer. "Most often, technicians are already acting as supervisors or foremen, but they don't have the designation to identify their project management experience, which you need if you want to advance your career," he said. "BICSI's RTPM program identifies that expertise and awards the recognition to those who earn it." Why should I choose the BICSI RTPM credential over other project management credentials? No two industry credentials are created the same, especially in specialty industries such as ICT. BICSI launched an updated RTPM program, which included new courses, a manual and an exam. e RTPM is an effective bridge that can move a technician toward advanced career opportunities. A project manager must perform work to accommodate the customer requirements, which can further lead to design experience necessary for the Registered Communications Distribution Designer® (RCDD®) role. (continued on page 4)