32 Complete Two-day AWS Training Class in Fiber Optics at RichmondCC

Oct. 30, 2025 – Thirty-two students completed the first Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Certificate course offered by Richmond Community College in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.

This two-day course held on Oct. 28-29 filled up quickly when RichmondCC put it on the schedule soon after the announcement that AWS would be building a data center at Energy Way Industrial Park in Hamlet. This data center will bring 500 new jobs to Richmond County within the next five years.

Led by industry experts from Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, the training offered participants hands-on experience with advanced fiber optic tools and techniques, building practical skills in cabling and splicing. The two-day certificate course also included a culminating ceremony and networking fair, giving learners the chance to connect with local fiber and tech infrastructure professionals. Participants earned an AWS Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing certificate, enhancing their credentials in a high-demand field.

The instructors noted that this was one of the highest achieving classes they have taught. They usually give an award to the person who passes the final test with just one wrong answer. Sumitomo instructor Pat Stitcher said not only did this class have many students who only missed one question, but there were three students who had perfect scores on the final test. They were Andrew Hartwell, Elizabeth Monroe and Roger Stewart.

“Skills development creates lasting benefits for local communities, which is why we’re committed to investing in workforce training wherever we operate,” stated Roger Wehner, VP of Economic Development for AWS. “Our AWS Fusion Splicing program opens new career paths for participants who learn fiber optic installation and maintenance. These are essential skills needed to build the digital infrastructure that will connect our nation for generations to come.”

Fiber optic cables are the backbone of the modern world, carrying internet, TV, and telephone data. Fiber optic cables are made up of tiny glass tubes, which makes repairing and testing them specialized work.

The college also hosted a free four-hour Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Micro Course led by Sumitomo Electric Lightwave on Oct. 27 that targeted high school seniors.

“These courses are a great introduction for people interested in entering the fiber optic industry or professionals looking to learn the fusion splicing skill,” said John Kester, Dean of Engineering Trades for RichmondCC. “We are thankful to AWS and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave for allowing us to provide this cutting edge training and developing a new a workforce of fiber technicians.”