Viberoptix Launch New Fibre Engineer Training Centre in Cumbria

Northern Ireland-based civil engineering firm Viberoptix, which is working alongside ISPs like Fibrus to roll-out full fibre (FTTP) broadband networks in the UK, has launched a new “Fibre Campus” to train new engineers in the specialist skills required to support such work in Cumbria, England.

The Newtown Rigg Fibre Campus is located within the former Agricultural college and will be helping to provide additional employment opportunities in Cumbria for 300 to 400 people. Alongside Fibrus, Viberoptix is working to cover 60,000 premises in Cumbria over the next few years, which forms part of a £108m Project Gigabit contract (here).

The contractor added that they’re aiming to replicate their training academy in Coalisland, Co Tyrone, but on an even larger scale with twice the capacity of the original facility. The Newtown Rigg Fibre Campus will allow Viberoptix to maintain apprenticeship programmes, while also continuing to provide ongoing training and development to experienced staff and contractors.

Viberoptix Chief Executive, Naomhan McCrory, said:

“This is an exciting time for Viberoptix, as we prepare to open our new Fibre Campus and welcome new apprentices to the team in Cumbria. The roll out of full fibre broadband is important for homes and businesses across this area, both by enhancing connectivity for residents and providing significant employment opportunities alongside that.

Our initial Fibre Academy in Coalisland, Co Tyrone, has already seen more than 500 trainees gain specialist qualifications, and become highly skilled in this innovative and growing sector. With the Newtown Rigg Fibre Campus we will see even more apprentices come through the doors, as well as those who wish to develop their skills or possibly avail of a complete career change.”

The new site is due to open before the end of this month, with the first intake of apprentices expected in February 2023.