Qwest® Business
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
www.qwest.com/smallbusiness
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
www.qwest.com/smallbusiness
Telecom Companies
Unified Communications For Small To Medium Business. Free Estimate.
www.datafonetech.com
Unified Communications For Small To Medium Business. Free Estimate.
www.datafonetech.com
Kircom Telecommunications
Telephone Voicemail Paging VOIP Cat5e Cat6 Fiber Optic Cableing
www.kircom.com
Telephone Voicemail Paging VOIP Cat5e Cat6 Fiber Optic Cableing
www.kircom.com
Submarine Telecoms Forum
dedicated magazine and RSS Feed and Voice of the Industry
www.subtelforum.com
dedicated magazine and RSS Feed and Voice of the Industry
www.subtelforum.com
The Phone Repair Company
Sell telcom hand tools/Fiber optic Repair locating equipment/Refurbish
www.thephonerepaircompany.com
Sell telcom hand tools/Fiber optic Repair locating equipment/Refurbish
www.thephonerepaircompany.com
Telecom Consultants
Phone system planning & acquisition VoIP, UM, PBX, VM, WiFi simplified
www.gg-mi.com
Phone system planning & acquisition VoIP, UM, PBX, VM, WiFi simplified
www.gg-mi.com
Related Business Topics
0-9
3rd Generation Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2)
Spearheaded by the International Committee of the American National Standards Institute, a group of organization designed to set the global specifications for ANSI/TIA/EIA-41.
www.3gpp2.org
Spearheaded by the International Committee of the American National Standards Institute, a group of organization designed to set the global specifications for ANSI/TIA/EIA-41.
www.3gpp2.org
A
The Association for Telecommunications Professionals in Higher Education (ACUTA)
Nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement of teaching, learning, research and public service by providing advice in the application of telecommunications technology for higher education.
www.acuta.org
Nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement of teaching, learning, research and public service by providing advice in the application of telecommunications technology for higher education.
www.acuta.org
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Forum
Was formed in late 1994 to help telephone companies and their suppliers realize the enormous market potential of DSL. Offers technical and marketing help.
www.adsl.com
Was formed in late 1994 to help telephone companies and their suppliers realize the enormous market potential of DSL. Offers technical and marketing help.
www.adsl.com
Alexis de Tocqueville Institute
Supports a telecom program that promotes expanded services at lower cost to consumers by supporting liberalization of telecom markets.
www.adti.net
Supports a telecom program that promotes expanded services at lower cost to consumers by supporting liberalization of telecom markets.
www.adti.net
Association of Wireless Technology
Industry association aimed at promoting wireless technologies.
www.aowt.org
Industry association aimed at promoting wireless technologies.
www.aowt.org
Association of Public-Safety Communication Officials International (APCO International)
Nonprofit professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of public safety communications.
www.apcointl.org
Nonprofit professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of public safety communications.
www.apcointl.org
Associação Portuguesa para o Desenvolvimento das Comunicações
Provides information on Portugal’s telecommunications market and discusses the latest developments, issues within the sector.
www.apdc.pt
Provides information on Portugal’s telecommunications market and discusses the latest developments, issues within the sector.
www.apdc.pt
Alliance for Public Technology
Fosters access to affordable and useful information and communication services and technologies by all people.
www.apt.org
Fosters access to affordable and useful information and communication services and technologies by all people.
www.apt.org
Association of Communications Enterprises (ASCENT)
Formerly the Telecommunications Resellers Association, has an orientation toward meeting the needs of small, start-up companies that have emerged as communications markets opened to competition.
www.ascent.org
Formerly the Telecommunications Resellers Association, has an orientation toward meeting the needs of small, start-up companies that have emerged as communications markets opened to competition.
www.ascent.org
American Teleservices Association
Not-for-profit trade association representing the telemarketing industry, recommending standards of quality and professionalism, and educating and protecting the rights of consumers.
www.ataconnect.org
Not-for-profit trade association representing the telemarketing industry, recommending standards of quality and professionalism, and educating and protecting the rights of consumers.
www.ataconnect.org
Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS)
North American membership organization for the development of telecommunications standards, operating procedures and guidelines through sponsored committees and forums.
www.atis.org
North American membership organization for the development of telecommunications standards, operating procedures and guidelines through sponsored committees and forums.
www.atis.org
B
National ISDN Council
Supports the development of ISDN services that require network connectivity, compatibility and integrity on a nationwide basis.
www.bellcore.com
Supports the development of ISDN services that require network connectivity, compatibility and integrity on a nationwide basis.
www.bellcore.com
BICSI
Nonprofit telecommunications association promoting the interests of low-voltage cabling distribution design and installation.
www.bicsi.org
Nonprofit telecommunications association promoting the interests of low-voltage cabling distribution design and installation.
www.bicsi.org
C
The Communications Group
Provides an informal forum for lawyers, consultants, regulators, policy-makers and other professionals involved in the communications industries to meet and discuss the industry developments.
www.commsgroup.org
Provides an informal forum for lawyers, consultants, regulators, policy-makers and other professionals involved in the communications industries to meet and discuss the industry developments.
www.commsgroup.org
CompactFlash Association
Non-profit, mutual-benefit corporation that promotes adoption of CompactFlash as a worldwide, ultra-small, removable storage and I/O standard for capturing and transporting digital data, audio and images and performing I/O functionality such as ...
www.compactflash.org
Non-profit, mutual-benefit corporation that promotes adoption of CompactFlash as a worldwide, ultra-small, removable storage and I/O standard for capturing and transporting digital data, audio and images and performing I/O functionality such as ...
www.compactflash.org
Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility
Public-interest alliance of computer scientists who provide the public and policymakers with realistic assessments of computer technology.
www.cpsr.org
Public-interest alliance of computer scientists who provide the public and policymakers with realistic assessments of computer technology.
www.cpsr.org
Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO)
Partnership between commonwealth governments and telecommunications businesses created to promote telecommunications in the interests of consumers, businesses and social and economic development.
www.cto.int
Partnership between commonwealth governments and telecommunications businesses created to promote telecommunications in the interests of consumers, businesses and social and economic development.
www.cto.int
Capitol Telecommunications Professionals
Independent, non-profit volunteer association founded to enrich the careers of professionals employed in the telecommunications industry.
www.ctpva.com
Independent, non-profit volunteer association founded to enrich the careers of professionals employed in the telecommunications industry.
www.ctpva.com
Communications Workers of America (CWA)
Based in Washington DC, CWA is a telecommunications union in North America, representing workers in public and private employment. CWA members are employed in telecommunications, printing and news media, public service, health care, cable tele...
www.cwa-union.org
Based in Washington DC, CWA is a telecommunications union in North America, representing workers in public and private employment. CWA members are employed in telecommunications, printing and news media, public service, health care, cable tele...
www.cwa-union.org
E
European Calling Card Services Association(ECCSA)
Supports the growth of the European remote-memory calling card market through setting industry standards, self-regulation and increased awareness of calling cards.
www.eccsa.org
Supports the growth of the European remote-memory calling card market through setting industry standards, self-regulation and increased awareness of calling cards.
www.eccsa.org
European Competitive Telecommunications Association (ECTA)
A pan-European pro-competitive trade association for European telecom companies. Offer articles and information in a quarterly newsletter.
www.ectaportal.com
A pan-European pro-competitive trade association for European telecom companies. Offer articles and information in a quarterly newsletter.
www.ectaportal.com
Electronic Frontier Foundation
A non-profit, non-partisan organization working in the public interest to protect fundamental civil liberties, including privacy and freedom of expression in the arena of computers and the Internet.
www.eff.org
A non-profit, non-partisan organization working in the public interest to protect fundamental civil liberties, including privacy and freedom of expression in the arena of computers and the Internet.
www.eff.org
European Telecommunications Informatics Services
A global IT association for telecommunications. Aimed at supporting the convergence of IT and telecommunications technologies to provide enhanced services and to facilitates the exchange, co-operation, communication and discussion of informatio...
www.etis.org
A global IT association for telecommunications. Aimed at supporting the convergence of IT and telecommunications technologies to provide enhanced services and to facilitates the exchange, co-operation, communication and discussion of informatio...
www.etis.org
European Telecommunications Platform
A consultative body providing information on the European regulatory framework, competition issues, the converging communications sector, and the rapid development of the global information society.
www.etp-online.org
A consultative body providing information on the European regulatory framework, competition issues, the converging communications sector, and the rapid development of the global information society.
www.etp-online.org
European Telecommunication Services Association
ETSA is a group of 13 European national telecommunications trade associations representing approximately 2,500 companies in Europe.
www.etsa.org
ETSA is a group of 13 European national telecommunications trade associations representing approximately 2,500 companies in Europe.
www.etsa.org
European Telecommunications Standards Institute - ETSI
Non-Profit organization whose mission is to produce future telecommunications standards throughout Europe and beyond.
www.etsi.org
Non-Profit organization whose mission is to produce future telecommunications standards throughout Europe and beyond.
www.etsi.org
European Virtual Private Networks Users Association
EVUA is a telecommunications focus group for user organizations that aims to encourage the creation of cost effective VPN(Virtual Private Network) services for its members.
www.evua.org.uk
EVUA is a telecommunications focus group for user organizations that aims to encourage the creation of cost effective VPN(Virtual Private Network) services for its members.
www.evua.org.uk
F
Federal Communications Bar Association (FCBA)
The Federal Communications Bar Association is an organization of attorneys and other professionals, including engineers, consultants, economists and government officials, involved in the development, interpretation and practice of communications...
www.fcba.org
The Federal Communications Bar Association is an organization of attorneys and other professionals, including engineers, consultants, economists and government officials, involved in the development, interpretation and practice of communications...
www.fcba.org
Federal Communications Commission
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - The FCC, an independent United States government agency directly responsible to Congress, regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable. The FCC's ...
www.fcc.gov
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - The FCC, an independent United States government agency directly responsible to Congress, regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable. The FCC's ...
www.fcc.gov
Federation of Communication Services
Trade association and representative body for the mobile communications industry in the UK.
www.fcs.org.uk
Trade association and representative body for the mobile communications industry in the UK.
www.fcs.org.uk
Federation of the Electronics Industry (FEI)
Trade association for companies in the information technology, communications and electronics industries.
www.fei.org.uk
Trade association for companies in the information technology, communications and electronics industries.
www.fei.org.uk
G
Global Telecommunications Society
Nonprofit association that promotes discussion of the technological, social and business aspects of global communications.
www.gtswashington.org
Nonprofit association that promotes discussion of the technological, social and business aspects of global communications.
www.gtswashington.org
Global Telecommunications Women's Network
Provides a networking forum for executive women active in telecommunications. Headquartered in Cologne, Germany.
www.gtwn.org
Provides a networking forum for executive women active in telecommunications. Headquartered in Cologne, Germany.
www.gtwn.org
I
International Communication Industries Association
Virginia based Association representing for-profit individuals and organizations that derive revenue from the commercialization or utilization of communications technologies. ICIA ensures the credibility and desirability of its members' products...
www.icia.org
Virginia based Association representing for-profit individuals and organizations that derive revenue from the commercialization or utilization of communications technologies. ICIA ensures the credibility and desirability of its members' products...
www.icia.org
Independent Committee for the Supervision of Standards of Telephone Information Services (ICSTIS)
Nonprofit organization that supervises the standard of telephone information services and regulates the content and promotion of premium rate telephone services.
www.icstis.org.uk
Nonprofit organization that supervises the standard of telephone information services and regulates the content and promotion of premium rate telephone services.
www.icstis.org.uk
International Institute Of Communications
Nonprofit organization that organizes quarterly meetings to discuss the movements of the telecom industry.
www.iicom.org
Nonprofit organization that organizes quarterly meetings to discuss the movements of the telecom industry.
www.iicom.org
Interactive Multimedia & Collaborative
Fosters industry growth by facilitating non-profit industry organizations to coalesce around the technology and uses of collaborative communications globally.
www.imcca.org
Fosters industry growth by facilitating non-profit industry organizations to coalesce around the technology and uses of collaborative communications globally.
www.imcca.org
International Multimedia Teleconferencing Consortium (IMTC)
A non-profit organization which seeks to promote, encourage, and facilitate the development and implementation of interoperable multimedia teleconferencing solutions based on open international standards.
www.imtc.org
A non-profit organization which seeks to promote, encourage, and facilitate the development and implementation of interoperable multimedia teleconferencing solutions based on open international standards.
www.imtc.org
Intelligent Network Forum
Open, non-profit organization comprised of service providers, equipment vendors, software developers, systems integrators, research and engineering organizations, users and other interested parties promoting the evolution of Network Intelligence...
www.inf.org
Open, non-profit organization comprised of service providers, equipment vendors, software developers, systems integrators, research and engineering organizations, users and other interested parties promoting the evolution of Network Intelligence...
www.inf.org
International Telecommunication Union
International organization within which governments and the private sector coordinate global telecom networks and services.
www.itu.int
International organization within which governments and the private sector coordinate global telecom networks and services.
www.itu.int
M
Massachusetts Telecommunications Council
Non-profit industry association representing 300+ telecom and affiliated companies in the state. The site is designed to be a resource for the industry.
www.masstel.org
Non-profit industry association representing 300+ telecom and affiliated companies in the state. The site is designed to be a resource for the industry.
www.masstel.org
Association of Independent Telecommunications Managers
Provides independent comparative analysis on telecommunications services including business, residential, and international long distance telephone, prepaid calling cards, toll-free and Internet web faxing services.
www.mast-ent.com
Provides independent comparative analysis on telecommunications services including business, residential, and international long distance telephone, prepaid calling cards, toll-free and Internet web faxing services.
www.mast-ent.com
Michigan Competitive Telecommunications Providers Association (MCTPA)
Coalition of long distance telecommunications providers focused on informing the public and legislature of the importance of true competition in the telecom industry.
mctpa.com
Coalition of long distance telecommunications providers focused on informing the public and legislature of the importance of true competition in the telecom industry.
mctpa.com
Multi Media Telecommunication Association (MMTA)
Provider of a forum on the convergence of communications and computing. Focuses on information pertaining to distributors, value-added resellers, manufacturers, software developers, integrators, carriers and corporate users.
www.mmta.org
Provider of a forum on the convergence of communications and computing. Focuses on information pertaining to distributors, value-added resellers, manufacturers, software developers, integrators, carriers and corporate users.
www.mmta.org
Multimedia Telecommunications Association
Multi Media Telecommunication Association (MMTA) - Provider of a forum on the convergence of communications and computing. Focuses on information pertaining to distributors, value-added resellers, manufacturers, software developers, integrators,...
www.mmta.org
Multi Media Telecommunication Association (MMTA) - Provider of a forum on the convergence of communications and computing. Focuses on information pertaining to distributors, value-added resellers, manufacturers, software developers, integrators,...
www.mmta.org
Minneapolis Telecommunications Network (MTN)
MTN provides community access to television, and to communication and information networks. MTN supports public access to media in four ways: training, community access to cable television, providing Internet Service and educational programs.
www.mtn.org
MTN provides community access to television, and to communication and information networks. MTN supports public access to media in four ways: training, community access to cable television, providing Internet Service and educational programs.
www.mtn.org
N
The National Association of Black Telecommunications Professionals, Inc.
A non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization founded in 1990 with a national and international membership of telecommunications professionals, small business owners, and students.
www.nabtp.org
A non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization founded in 1990 with a national and international membership of telecommunications professionals, small business owners, and students.
www.nabtp.org
National Association of Radio and Telecommunications Engineers (NARTE)
Worldwide, non-profit, professional organization which certifies qualified engineers and technicians in the fields of Telecommunications, Electromagnetic Compatibilty/Interference (EMC) Electrostatic Discharge control (ESD) and Wireless Systems ...
www.narte.org
Worldwide, non-profit, professional organization which certifies qualified engineers and technicians in the fields of Telecommunications, Electromagnetic Compatibilty/Interference (EMC) Electrostatic Discharge control (ESD) and Wireless Systems ...
www.narte.org
National Association of Regulatory Commissioners (NARUC)
A national association composed of governmental agencies of the fifty States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands engaged in the regulation of utilities and carriers.
www.naruc.org
A national association composed of governmental agencies of the fifty States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands engaged in the regulation of utilities and carriers.
www.naruc.org
North American Association of Telecommunications Dealers (NATD)
Represents the interests of companies that provide voice and data communications products and services. Promotes and enforces professional business practices and by provides information, services and education to its members, the industry and th...
www.natd.com
Represents the interests of companies that provide voice and data communications products and services. Promotes and enforces professional business practices and by provides information, services and education to its members, the industry and th...
www.natd.com
Native American Public Telecommunications
Informs, educates and encourages the awareness of tribal histories, cultures, languages, opportunities and aspirations through the participation of American Indians and Alaska Natives in creating and employing all forms of educational and public...
www.nativetelecom.org
Informs, educates and encourages the awareness of tribal histories, cultures, languages, opportunities and aspirations through the participation of American Indians and Alaska Natives in creating and employing all forms of educational and public...
www.nativetelecom.org
National Coordinating Center for Telecommunications
A National Security Council (NSC) formed interdepartmental committee to examine the nation's communications networks and institute changes.
www.ncs.gov
A National Security Council (NSC) formed interdepartmental committee to examine the nation's communications networks and institute changes.
www.ncs.gov
National Spectrum Managers Association
Voluntary association of microwave radio, personal communications services (PCS), and satellite licensees, manufacturers, and frequency coordinators.
www.nsma.org
Voluntary association of microwave radio, personal communications services (PCS), and satellite licensees, manufacturers, and frequency coordinators.
www.nsma.org
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
An agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIA is the Executive Branch's principal voice on domestic and international telecommunications and information technology issues.
www.ntia.doc.gov
An agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIA is the Executive Branch's principal voice on domestic and international telecommunications and information technology issues.
www.ntia.doc.gov
O
Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA)
Organization dedicated to quality telecommunications services in Hong Kong.
www.ofta.gov.hk
Organization dedicated to quality telecommunications services in Hong Kong.
www.ofta.gov.hk
Organization for the Promotion and Advancement of Small Telecommunications Companies (OPASTCO)
A national trade association representing more than 500 small, independently owned local exchange carriers (LECs) and their affiliate telecommunications companies.
www.opastco.org
A national trade association representing more than 500 small, independently owned local exchange carriers (LECs) and their affiliate telecommunications companies.
www.opastco.org
Ontario Telecommunications Association
Provides leadership for the advancement and success of members who serve primarily rural and northern communities in Ontario, Canada.
www.ota.on.ca
Provides leadership for the advancement and success of members who serve primarily rural and northern communities in Ontario, Canada.
www.ota.on.ca
Ontario Telecommunications Association (OTA)
Telecom industry association that represents independent local exchange carriers in Ontario.
www.ota.on.ca
Telecom industry association that represents independent local exchange carriers in Ontario.
www.ota.on.ca
Q
Qwest® Business
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
www.qwest.com/smallbusiness
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
www.qwest.com/smallbusiness
S
SDL Forum Society
Organization focused on education and the dissemination of information.
www.sdl-forum.org
Organization focused on education and the dissemination of information.
www.sdl-forum.org
T
Telecommunications Industry Association
Telecommunications Industry Association - A national trade organization with more than 900 large and small companies which provide communications and information technology products and services.
www.tiaonline.org
Telecommunications Industry Association - A national trade organization with more than 900 large and small companies which provide communications and information technology products and services.
www.tiaonline.org
Texas Internet Service Providers Association
Tackles issues such as regulation, legislation, taxes, telecommunications technology and legal liability.
www.tispa.org
Tackles issues such as regulation, legislation, taxes, telecommunications technology and legal liability.
www.tispa.org
TeleManagement Forum
Provides leadership, guidance and solutions to improve the management and operation of communications services. Its 250-company membership comprises incumbent and new-entrant service providers, computing and network equipment suppliers, software...
www.tmforum.org
Provides leadership, guidance and solutions to improve the management and operation of communications services. Its 250-company membership comprises incumbent and new-entrant service providers, computing and network equipment suppliers, software...
www.tmforum.org
Telecommunication Society of Australia Ltd. (TSA)
Organization focused on the development of telecommunications in Australia.
www.tsa.org.au
Organization focused on the development of telecommunications in Australia.
www.tsa.org.au
Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA)
Group authorized by the Ministry of Communications to strengthen the cooperation among common carriers, manufacturers, academic circles, institutes and organizations.
www.tta.or.kr
Group authorized by the Ministry of Communications to strengthen the cooperation among common carriers, manufacturers, academic circles, institutes and organizations.
www.tta.or.kr
Telecommunications Users Association (TUA)
Group that supports the development of UK business through the application of telecommunications and information technologies.
www.tua.co.uk
Group that supports the development of UK business through the application of telecommunications and information technologies.
www.tua.co.uk
U
United States Telecom Association
Represents the nation's local exchange carrier industry. Promotes the general welfare of the telephone industry, collects and disseminates industry information and provides a forum for the discussion and resolution of issues of mutual concern.
www.usta.org
Represents the nation's local exchange carrier industry. Promotes the general welfare of the telephone industry, collects and disseminates industry information and provides a forum for the discussion and resolution of issues of mutual concern.
www.usta.org
V
Verband der Anbieter von TeleKommunikations-und Mehrwertdiensten e V
Association representing telecommunications and multimedia companies in the German telecommunications market.
www.vatm.de
Association representing telecommunications and multimedia companies in the German telecommunications market.
www.vatm.de
X
Cross-Industry Working Team (XIWT)
A multi-industry coalition defining the architecture and key technical requirements for an information infrastructure.
www.xiwt.org
A multi-industry coalition defining the architecture and key technical requirements for an information infrastructure.
www.xiwt.org
Telecom Companies
Unified Communications For Small To Medium Business. Free Estimate.
www.datafonetech.com
Unified Communications For Small To Medium Business. Free Estimate.
www.datafonetech.com
Kircom Telecommunications
Telephone Voicemail Paging VOIP Cat5e Cat6 Fiber Optic Cableing
www.kircom.com
Telephone Voicemail Paging VOIP Cat5e Cat6 Fiber Optic Cableing
www.kircom.com
Submarine Telecoms Forum
dedicated magazine and RSS Feed and Voice of the Industry
www.subtelforum.com
dedicated magazine and RSS Feed and Voice of the Industry
www.subtelforum.com
There are a number of telecommunications organizations throughout North America that provide many opportunities for telecommunications professionals. Opportunities include continuing education in the field, industry events, ways for small telecommunication companies to make their mark in the industry. Telecommunications associations also provide additional resources and discounts for members.
Many telecom associations require you to have some type of certification before you can join, but they also provide courses and certifications to industry veterans. This allows qualified professionals first access to education and events. Telecommunications organizations education and training opportunities include:
1. Access to telecom industry organizations' events and trade shows.
2. Continuing education and certifications.
3. Networking opportunities for large and small telecom companies.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Get small business training from telecommunications organizations
National telecommunications organizations offer many resources for large telecom companies. But if you're a smaller company, look for telecom organizations that represent small telecommunications businesses. You'll find their resources and classes are tailored to the size of our operation. You can find both national and regional telecommunications organizations for smaller businesses.
I recommend: The National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative offers online and on-site training courses for rural telecommunications companies and services. The National Telecommunications Cooperative Association offers many educational opportunities for a variety of positions at a large or small telecommunication company.
Find telecommunications industry organizations that provide online educational opportunities
Many telecommunications industry organizations provide their members with training and education opportunities. These classes and seminars are often discounted for members and targeted for specific levels of experience. Most organizations also offer training for additional certification in specialized telecom areas.
I recommend: The Telecommunications Industry Association offers certification programs to train professionals in certain skill sets. The U.S. Telecom Broadband Association offers online learning webinars and brick-and-mortar educational events throughout the year.
Join telecommunications organizations that offer continuing education
Continuing education opportunities are important for telecommunications organizations. These meetings expose members to new ideas and training opportunities, and also let them network with other professionals in the industry. Meetings topics include new technologies, best practices and hands-on training.
I recommend: The National Exchange Carrier Association offers a number of training classes that can be customized for your business. The International Association for Radio, Telecommunications, and Electromagnetics offers certification and continuing education opportunities to upgrade your standing in the organization.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- • If your company offers reseller services, you can also find a telecommunications resellers association that fits your company's needs. This will connect your company to other resellers and give you a chance to pick up additional customers within the industry.
FEATURED LISTINGS
Qwest® Business
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
Guide to Telecommunications Organizations
Telecommunications organizations provide the busy telecom professional with an array of resources
By Kelly Shetsky, Anchor/Reporter
Telecom associations are a team of passionate professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge. They provide support, networking and information exchange to telecommunications and IT industry. Whether you're with a small telecommunication company or a large corporation, you can benefit from joining telecommunications industry organizations.
Telecommunications associations link you to monthly meetings, workshops, educational seminars and activities that study emerging trends and challenges in the industry. You meet others, share expertise and ideas and learn how to better yourself as a professional. As a result, your job performance is fine-tuned. Consider:
1. Using telecommunications associations to expand your networking opportunities.
2. Varying membership levels depending on your place in the telecommunications industry.
3. Taking advantage of educational and networking opportunities offered by telecommunications resellers associations.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Join telecom associations to network with other professionals
Telecommunications organizations range from international groups to statewide or local organizations. They all have one goal in mind, to advance the telecom industry.
I recommend: Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is a full-service association with members who provide information technology and communications products and services. Register online for annual events to network and expand the reach of your products globally. TIA has several membership levels. Information Technology & Telecommunications Association (TCA) is an IT and telecommunications association with members from the government and the private sector. Register for events and seminars. Use Weddle's as a directory of telecommunications organizations.
Pay annual dues to belong to telecom organizations
Telecom industry organizations' dues usually range depending on the membership level. Once you find an association you're interested in joining, decide what type of commitment your company is willing to give.
I recommend: National Association of Telecommunication Officers and Administrators (NATOA) is a telecommunications resellers association comprised of professionals from local, state, county and federal telecommunication agencies. Register online for a NATOA membership and choose between associate, agency, individual and student. National Telephone Cooperative Association (NTCA) is non-profit group that represents small commercial companies and telephone cooperatives. Members receive industry representation, educational opportunities, a savings plan and retirement and security program. Register for the NTCA as a telephone, association, associate, international or subsidiary member.
Enhance your professional career by joining telecommunications associations
When you join telecom organizations, you gain access to magazines, business reports, groups, events and forums. Depending on the association, you get a voice before Congress on issues affecting the telecommunications industry. There are several results-driven committees and groups. You may also receive discounts on products and services.
I recommend: National ITFS Association (NIA) is a non-profit telecommunications resellers association for Instructional Television Fixed Service (ITFS) licensees. NIA member benefits include an annual conference and meetings, publications, discounts to events and access to the member-only portion of the website. Download presentations and articles online. Sign up for Telecommunications Benchmarking International Group's (TBIG) free newsletter if you're a provider of services including data, voice, Internet access, video, cellular, long-distance, local, wireless, paging of fixed lines. Members get the opportunity to participate in benchmarking studies.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- • Consider a company membership instead of individual membership to telecom industry organizations to enable several employees to benefit.
FEATURED LISTINGS
Qwest® Business
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
Your one-stop small business shop for phone, fiber-optic Internet, web site development, digital security and high-speed networking solutions.
Telecommunications organizations provide opportunities for professionals in the telecom industry to network, share ideas and experiences and gain knowledge. These associations not only enable telecommunications professionals to receive support from other likeminded associates, they also host events, educational seminars and workshops to enable industry professionals to further their careers. Familiarize yourself with the key terms on the agendas of telecommunications organizations.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Electromagnetic compatibility
Telecommunications professionals often must perform electromagnetic compatibility testing to ensure that equipment can perform without interference. Standard tests include emission and immunity level measuring to ensure that electronic devices and appliances can function properly according to standards.
I recommend: Learn more and apply for certification with the International Association for Radio, Telecommunications and Electromagnetics.
Educational broadband service
The educational broadband service (EBS) is a wireless spectrum designated for educators to broadcast educational television. The FCC designed this bandwidth spectrum in the 1960s and telecommunications organizations now offer certification and licensing programs.
I recommend: The National EBS Association provides educational opportunities and knowledge exchange for individuals and companies in the telecommunications industry who focus on EBS solutions.
Information infrastructure development
Different technologies and companies require different bandwidth in their telecommunications services. It is the task of telecommunications organizations and providers to stay abreast of standards and develop innovative solutions to meet the ever-changing needs of clients.
I recommend: The Institute for Telecommunications Sciences provides advanced telecommunications and information infrastructure development in the United States as well as additional programs for the advancement of the telecommunications field of study.
Enterprise wireless solutions
Enterprise wireless solutions allow professionals to communicate using the latest telecommunications technology and network applications. Telecommunications organizations work to establish standards and licensing guidelines for providers of enterprise wireless solutions.
I recommend: The Enterprise Wireless Alliance is one of many organizations dedicated to the standardization and regulation of providers of enterprise wireless solutions for customers.
Convergence Technology
Convergence technology refers to the integration of data, voice and video technologies. By encouraging convergence technology training, telecommunications organizations can develop a more more effective and knowledgeable workforce.
I recommend: The Telecommunications Industry Association provides convergence training courses and certification.
Radiotelephone communications
Telecommunications service providers that focus on radiotelephone communications provide two-way services including cellular, paging and beeper transmissions.
I recommend: The CTIA - The Wireless Association consists of international members representing all sectors of wireless communications.
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