Explosive growth abounds the telecommunications industry

Black Collegian, Apr 2001 by Huddleston, Monica M

How can you become a telecommunications success story? First, familiarize yourself with the industry trends, companies, products and services by reading business journals and trade publications like Telephony magazine and Utility Business. Also, read the various companies' annual reports and consult their Web sites regularly. While in college, select the courses that match the area of telecommunications you want to enter, namely computer science, business administration, marketing, telecommunications management, engineering, or a math and science concentration. Sharpen your oral and written presentation skills so you can present yourself well to that potential employer.

Positions are available in the more technical network engineering and operations divisions of these companies, but also in information technology, sales and customer service. Inquire at the companies mentioned in this article about internships for the summer as many of them have such programs. They often favor the summer interns for permanent positions upon college graduation because they are already familiar with the corporate culture and have proven that they can contribute to the company mission and goals accomplishment. Finally, network with telecommunications professionals like those in the National Association of Black Telecommunications Professionals, Inc. (NABTP), www.nabtp.org or 1-800-946-6228. Networking and learning from those who know this lucrative industry best will serve your personal and professional development interest well in the long run.

Monica M. Huddleston is the immediate past president of the National Association of Black Telecommunications Professionals, Inc.