The Fiber Optic Association

One of the first readers of this blog is the famous Jim Hayes, entrepreneur, founder of Fotec the very first and only (to date) low-cost-but-reliable optical test gear firm, and creator of the FiberU training events back in the early 90's. Fluke Networks took over Fotec in 2001, IMHO most probably to kill it : better shut down a rival rather than being forced to close a business unit yourself, right ?...
Since 2002, Jim is leading the largest fiber optics training organization in the world : the FOA Fiber Optic Association. Among its partners and clients : Verizon, who is developping a training curriculum for its FTTH installations. Keep in mind : the FOA is a non-profit association. Hence the quality of the training, which are sanctionned by an industry-approved certification process.
Every single * FOA certified * technician is able to connect and test the fiber near you, with the highest level of quality.
Good news for us Old Europeans : the FOA programs are coming to us, starting soon with the UK (more details in a few weeks). As France is going to become the #1 Fiber-To-The-Home' home by 2008, it might be good to start thinking about such a program in La Fayette' s country...