Virginia's Telecommunications pathway develops expertise in telephone systems, data networks, telecommunications infrastructure, and communication technology—preparing students for careers in telecommunications and network operations. This pathway emphasizes technical skills and system management.
Students study telecommunications principles, networking fundamentals, telephone systems, fiber optics, wireless technologies, and telecommunications security. They install systems, configure equipment, and troubleshoot communication problems through hands-on laboratory and field experiences.
Graduates work as telecommunications technicians, network technicians, telephone system installers, or telecommunications engineers. Virginia's diverse telecommunications needs create employment opportunities. Advanced students pursue network engineering and IT programs.
Telecommunications at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Virginia's telecommunications standards address network technology, installation practices, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements. Standards emphasize both traditional telephony and modern data telecommunications.
Students demonstrate competency through installation projects, network configuration assessments, and safety certifications. The state integrates industry certifications.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Telecommunications Foundations |
| Network Systems and Technology |
| Fiber Optics and Installation |
| Telecommunications Systems Management |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
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- ✓Adobe Certified Professional - Photoshop
- ✓Adobe Certified Professional - Illustrator
- ✓Adobe Certified Professional - InDesign
- ✓Adobe Certified Professional - Premiere Pro
- ✓Adobe Certified Professional - After Effects
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Telecommunications Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $57,860 - $104,170
Network Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $81,910 - $134,110
System Administrator
ExperiencedSalary range: $81,910 - $134,110
Telecommunications Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $57,860 - $104,170
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students apprentice at telecommunications companies, internet service providers, and corporate IT departments throughout Virginia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Virginia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Virginia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Virginia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Virginia standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Virginia
Information Technology
Virginia's Information Technology pathway prepares students for careers in IT support, network administration, systems management, cloud computing, and technology services. This comprehensive program provides foundational training in computer systems, networking, cybersecurity fundamentals, database management, and IT service delivery. As organizations throughout Virginia depend on reliable technology infrastructure—from government contractors in Northern Virginia to healthcare systems to manufacturing operations—skilled IT professionals are essential across all economic sectors. The pathway covers core IT competencies including computer hardware and operating systems, networking protocols and infrastructure, cloud services, virtualization, database fundamentals, and IT customer service. Students develop both technical troubleshooting skills and professional communication abilities essential for effective IT support roles. The curriculum integrates hands-on labs where students configure systems, diagnose problems, manage networks, and implement technology solutions mirroring real-world IT environments in Virginia organizations. Virginia's Information Technology programs prepare students for industry certifications demonstrating technical competence and enhancing employability. Strong partnerships with Virginia businesses, government contractors, and agencies provide work-based learning opportunities and employment pathways. Graduates are prepared for entry-level IT positions including help desk support, IT technician, junior network administrator, and cloud support roles. The pathway also provides foundation for advanced IT specializations and four-year information technology degree programs at Virginia universities.
Information TechnologyNetwork Systems
Virginia's Network Systems pathway develops expertise in network design, installation, configuration, management, and security—preparing students for careers building and maintaining computer networks. Students study networking principles, network protocols, network design, system configuration, network management, cybersecurity, and troubleshooting. They configure networks and practice network administration through hands-on lab experiences. Graduates work as network administrators, network technicians, systems administrators, or network engineers. Every organization requires network professionals. Advanced students pursue networking and IT management programs.
Information TechnologyReady to Build Telecommunications Programs at Scale?
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