Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Spectrum Considerations for Utilities

A practical course on the fundamentals of drive testing for wireless networks, tailored for utility environments.

A focused session on spectrum licensing, regulatory obligations, and spectrum management best practices.

Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to manage licensed spectrum for utility use, including FCC filings, buildout requirements, and ongoing compliance responsibilities.

Who Should Attend

  • Regulatory specialists

  • Telecom managers and planners

  • Legal and compliance teams

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand FCC licensing and buildout obligations

  • Navigate common regulatory processes and filings

  • Identify risks and best practices in spectrum management

  • Track and manage ongoing compliance requirements

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live

  • Length: 4 hours

  • Level: Intermediate

  • Materials: Filing templates, regulatory checklist

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

5G Fundamentals

An introductory course that explains how utilities operate, the structure of the utility industry, and the key systems and services they provide.

A focused course explaining the key concepts and architecture behind 5G and how it builds upon 4G LTE to support new capabilities for utility networks.

This course provides a practical overview of 5G wireless technologies, spectrum use, and deployment models with an emphasis on utility applications. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how 5G differs from LTE, what use cases it enables, and how utilities might plan for integration. The course assumes a basic understanding of wireless concepts or prior exposure to LTE.

Who Should Attend

  • Telecom engineers and utility IT professionals

  • Utility leadership exploring 5G readiness

  • Consultants and vendors supporting utility telecom deployments

  • Technical professionals familiar with LTE seeking a 5G overview

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the differences between LTE and 5G networks

  • Explain how 5G spectrum is structured (low-, mid-, and high-band)

  • Understand the role of technologies like Massive MIMO and network slicing

  • Identify 5G use cases relevant to utility operations (e.g., ultra-reliable low latency, IoT connectivity)

  • Evaluate deployment strategies and architectural options for 5G in utilities

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live or in-person

  • Length: 1 day (with LTE Bootcamp) or 2 days standalone

  • Level: Foundational to Intermediate

  • Materials: Slide deck, architecture diagrams, and glossary

Registration & Materials
πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.
πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Utility 101

An introductory course that explains how utilities operate, the structure of the utility industry, and the key systems and services they provide.

An introductory course that explains how utilities operate, the structure of the utility industry, and the key systems and services they provide.

This foundational course provides a high-level overview of electric, water, and gas utilitiesβ€”what they do, how they're structured, and how they deliver services to customers. It introduces participants to utility terminology, regulatory influences, and how infrastructure, operations, and customer service come together to power communities. No prior utility experience required.

Who Should Attend

  • New utility employees across departments

  • Vendors and consultants working with utilities

  • Government or nonprofit staff supporting utility initiatives

  • Communications, marketing, or policy professionals new to the sector

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the basic functions of electric, water, and gas utilities

  • Understand how utilities are organized and regulated

  • Identify key utility systems such as generation, transmission, distribution, metering, and customer service

  • Recognize how utility operations intersect with safety, reliability, and public policy

  • Navigate common industry acronyms and jargon with confidence

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live or in-person

  • Length: 6 hours

  • Level: Introductory

  • Materials: Slide deck, glossary of utility terms, industry org chart

Registration & Materials

πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.
πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Wireless 101

An entry-level course explaining key wireless concepts, spectrum basics, and how wireless systems support utility operations.

An entry-level course explaining key wireless concepts, spectrum basics, and how wireless systems support utility operations.

This foundational course introduces the principles of wireless communication with a focus on practical utility applications. Participants will gain a solid understanding of how wireless networks function, what spectrum is, and the types of systems used in the field (e.g., LMR, SCADA radio, cellular, microwave). No prior telecom experience required.

Who Should Attend

  • Utility field staff and engineers

  • Managers and analysts entering the wireless space

  • Anyone supporting or interacting with utility telecom teams

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Explain the basic components of a wireless system

  • Understand key wireless terms like frequency, bandwidth, and modulation

  • Identify common wireless technologies used in utility operations

  • Recognize the role of wireless networks in grid communication

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live or in-person

  • Length: 6 hours

  • Level: Introductory

  • Materials: Slide deck and glossary of wireless terms

Registration & Materials

πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.
πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Field Area Network (FAN) 101

An introductory course on wireless networks that connect utility field devices such as reclosers, sensors, and meters.

An introductory course on wireless networks that connect utility field devices such as reclosers, sensors, and meters.

This course covers the core architecture, components, and communication protocols of Field Area Networks, and explains how they support distribution automation, grid visibility, and remote operations.

Who Should Attend

  • Utility field engineers

  • Telecom and grid modernization teams

  • Planners and IT/OT architects

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Explain what a FAN is and why it matters for utility operations

  • Identify the main components and topologies used in FANs

  • Understand the role of FANs in SCADA, AMI, and DA

  • Recognize common technologies and deployment models

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual or in-person

  • Length: 6 hours

  • Level: Introductory

  • Materials: Slide deck, FAN architecture handout

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Basics of Radio Site Grounding

A practical introduction to grounding principles for utility radio sites to ensure equipment protection, personnel safety, and regulatory compliance.

A practical introduction to grounding principles for utility radio sites to ensure equipment protection, personnel safety, and regulatory compliance.

This course covers the basics of radio site grounding and bonding, including grounding system design, codes and standards, and inspection practices. Participants will learn how proper grounding reduces lightning risk, limits interference, and supports long-term network reliability.

Who Should Attend

  • Utility telecom engineers and technicians

  • Field construction and maintenance staff

  • Safety and compliance personnel

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of grounding and bonding for radio sites

  • Identify key components of a grounding system

  • Apply applicable standards (e.g., IEEE, NEC) to site design

  • Conduct basic inspections and identify grounding issues

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual or in-person

  • Length: 6 hours

  • Level: Introductory

  • Materials: Grounding diagrams, site checklist

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Land Mobile Radio (LMR) 101

A beginner’s course on the basics of Land Mobile Radio systems and their role in utility field communications.

A beginner’s course on the basics of Land Mobile Radio systems and their role in utility field communications.

This course introduces LMR system architecture, frequency bands, digital vs. analog systems, and key concepts such as coverage planning and system reliability. Participants will also learn about modern LMR upgrades and integration with IP networks.

Who Should Attend

  • Field technicians and system operators

  • Telecom and emergency communication teams

  • IT professionals supporting LMR infrastructure

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand how LMR systems work and their critical role in field operations

  • Differentiate between analog and digital LMR systems

  • Recognize frequency planning and site design considerations

  • Identify when LMR upgrades or replacements are needed

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual or in-person

  • Length: 4 hours

  • Level: Introductory

  • Materials: Slide deck, LMR terms glossary

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

4G/5G Fundamentals

An in-depth course covering the foundational concepts behind 4G and 5G wireless technologies and how they support modern utility networks.

An in-depth course covering the foundational concepts behind 4G and 5G wireless technologies and how they support modern utility networks.

This course begins with the fundamentals of wireless communication and explores how 4G and 5G build upon these principles. Participants will learn the key differences between the two technologies, including architecture, spectrum use, and performance capabilities.

Who Should Attend

  • Utility telecom engineers, network planners, technology analysts

  • Operations staff supporting wireless networks

  • Professionals evaluating LTE and 5G for utility use

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the core principles of 4G and 5G technologies

  • Identify the major components of LTE and NR architecture

  • Compare the capabilities and use cases of 4G and 5G for utilities

  • Recognize how advanced networks support grid modernization

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live or in-person

  • Length: 2 days

  • Level: Intermediate

  • Materials: Presentation slides, reference guide

Registration & Materials

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Utility Telecom 101

A foundational course introducing key utility telecom concepts, technologies, and applications.

A foundational course introducing key utility telecom concepts, technologies, and applications.

This course provides a practical overview of telecommunications in utility operations. Participants will learn the basic components of utility telecom networks, the role of telecom in grid modernization, and how different systems communicate across the grid.

Who Should Attend

  • Utility professionals new to telecom

  • Operations and engineering staff

  • Project managers or regulatory staff needing a telecom primer

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Identify major telecom technologies used by utilities

  • Understand common telecom applications (e.g., SCADA, AMI, DA)

  • Describe how telecom supports grid modernization

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual or in-person

  • Length: 4 hours

  • Level: Beginner

  • Materials: Slide deck, downloadable reference guide

Registration & Materials

πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.
πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

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Foundational Kathy Nelson Foundational Kathy Nelson

Drive Testing Basics

A practical course on the fundamentals of drive testing for wireless networks, tailored for utility environments.

A practical course on the fundamentals of drive testing for wireless networks, tailored for utility environments.

This course explains the different types of drive tests, equipment involved, and best practices for execution and analysis. Participants will understand how to plan and perform drive tests and interpret the data collected.

Who Should Attend

  • Field technicians

  • Telecom engineers

  • RF planners and utility testing teams

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Differentiate between types of drive tests and their purposes

  • Select appropriate tools and equipment

  • Plan and execute a drive test safely and effectively

  • Interpret test results for troubleshooting and optimization

Course Format

  • Delivery: In-person only

  • Length: 1 day

  • Level: Intermediate

  • Materials: Hands-on equipment overview, slide deck

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

Spectrum Considerations for Utilities

A focused session on spectrum licensing, regulatory obligations, and spectrum management best practices.

Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to manage licensed spectrum for utility use, including FCC filings, buildout requirements, and ongoing compliance responsibilities.

Who Should Attend

  • Regulatory specialists

  • Telecom managers and planners

  • Legal and compliance teams

Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand FCC licensing and buildout obligations

  • Navigate common regulatory processes and filings

  • Identify risks and best practices in spectrum management

  • Track and manage ongoing compliance requirements

Course Format

  • Delivery: Virtual live

  • Length: 4 hours

  • Level: Intermediate

  • Materials: Filing templates, regulatory checklist

Registration & Materials

  • πŸ“© Contact us at training@theutech.net to register or request a quote.

  • πŸ“„ Download Course Flyer (PDF)

Read More