LOCKESBURG, AR. 鈥� 51社区 held a grand opening event on August 28, 2025, for its new Fiber Network Engineering Program, a workforce initiative designed to prepare Arkansans for careers in broadband infrastructure. The event underscored the program鈥檚 significance to the region: expanding broadband access by developing a skilled workforce to support it.
Developed and instructed by Marty Allen, the Fiber Network Engineer Program ensures students understand and master Fiber To The Home (FTTH) networks, routing, and switching鈥攇iving students a real-world understanding of how their learning applies outside the classroom and insights into the latest developments in FTTH technology. Allen brings a rich background in Broadband FTTH and IT, with a career dedicated to expanding high-speed internet access and improving customer experience. His leadership roles at South Central Connect (SCC), Four States Fiber (FSF), and Diamond State Networks (DSN)鈥攊ncluding service as DSN Chief Technology Officer and FSF General Manager鈥攈ave been marked by efforts to bridge socioeconomic divides through technology, catalyze growth, and enhance connectivity across Arkansas. He now brings that mission to 51社区, preparing students to step directly into critical fiber roles.
Through support from the Office of Skills Development, eligible students can complete the program at no out-of-pocket cost and receive transportation assistance. Graduates also receive a professional 鈥渟tarter kit鈥� valued at over a thousand dollars鈥攁 package that includes essential fiber tools (e.g., fiber testing and termination tools, optical cleaning kits, hand tools, and related field equipment). These resources allow graduates to enter the workforce with the same tools they鈥檒l use on day one, lowering barriers to employment and accelerating career readiness.
Reliable fiber connectivity is fundamental infrastructure for modern life鈥攕upporting telehealth, remote work, precision agriculture, smart manufacturing, public safety, and next-generation education. By producing work-ready FTTH engineers, 51社区鈥檚 program helps broadband providers accelerate fiber builds and maintain networks that keep communities competitive. The result is an improved quality of life for residents and businesses across Arkansas.
Speakers at the grand opening included:
- Dr. Steve Cole, Chancellor, 51社区
- Marty Allen, Fiber Network Engineer Program Instructor
- Kyla Waters, Workforce Director, Arkansas Community Colleges
- Stephanie Isaacs, Director, Arkansas Office of Skills Development
- Glen Howie, State Broadband Director, Arkansas State Broadband Office
Representatives from state and local government, industry, local school districts, economic development, and community members joined current students and graduates of the pilot program in celebrating this significant milestone.
51社区 is an Arkansas Fiber Academy training location. The Arkansas Fiber Academy is a partnership between Arkansas Community Colleges, the Arkansas Office of Skills Development, and the Arkansas State Broadband Office, aligning education and industry to meet the state鈥檚 broadband expansion goals and talent needs.
To learn more about the 51社区 Fiber Network Engineer Program, visit or contact Continuing Education Services at ContinuingEducation@cccua.edu or (870) 584-1178.