The Fiber Optic Academy is a Veteran-owned, FOA-approved fiber optic training school based in Malvern, Arkansas. We teach hands-on CFOT, splicing, testing, fiber to the home, outside plant and premises cabling courses at our training facility, and we bring the same courses to employers anywhere in the state.
Hands-On Training at Our Malvern, AR Facility
In-person classes are held at 323 Catherine Cove Loop Malvern, AR 72104. Malvern sits along I-30 between Little Rock and Arkadelphia, a short drive from Hot Springs, so students from across central and southern Arkansas can reach class easily.
Fiber Optic Courses Offered in Arkansas
Every course is FOA-approved and taught hands-on with real fiber, splicers and test equipment:
- CFOT - Certified Fiber Optic Technician: the entry-level FOA certification and the prerequisite for most specialist courses.
- CFOS/S fiber splicing training: fusion and mechanical splicing, trays and closures.
- CFOS/T fiber optic testing: loss testing, OTDR and troubleshooting.
- CFOS/H fiber to the home (FTTH): PON networks and broadband installs.
- CFOS/O outside plant (OSP): aerial and underground fiber construction.
- OTDR Fundamentals: reading and interpreting OTDR traces.
- CPCT premises cabling: copper, fiber and wireless in buildings.
Serving Little Rock, Hot Springs, Benton, Conway, Pine Bluff and Statewide
Our Malvern facility is an easy drive from the Little Rock metro, Hot Springs, Benton and Bryant, and much of the rest of the state. For employers, we also hold classes on-site at your shop, yard or training room anywhere in Arkansas, so your crew trains on the equipment they use every day. See on-site fiber optic training for companies.
Fiber Jobs and the Arkansas Broadband Buildout
Arkansas is expanding broadband service with federal and state programs such as BEAD, and those networks are built on fiber. Contractors, electric cooperatives and internet providers need technicians who can install, splice and test fiber correctly. An FOA certification is a recognized way to show employers you have those skills. Read our guide on how to become a fiber optic technician.
Start Online with Fiber U, Then Two Days Hands-On
Begin with the free CFOT online training at Fiber U, the online learning resource of The Fiber Optic Association. Bring your certificate of completion to our 2-day, instructor-led, hands-on CFOT course, then take the FOA certification exam. A Fiber U certificate of completion is not itself an FOA professional certification. Learn more about the Fiber U to FOA certification pathway.
Pricing and Class Dates
Training is $299 per student, per training day.
| Course | Length | Tuition per student |
|---|---|---|
| CFOT - Certified Fiber Optic Technician | 2 days | $598 |
| CFOS/S - Splicing Specialist | 2 days | $598 |
| CFOS/T - Testing Specialist | 2 days | $598 |
| CFOS/H - Fiber to the Home Specialist | 2 days | $598 |
| CFOS/O - Outside Plant Specialist | 2 days | $598 |
| OTDR Fundamentals | 2 days | $598 |
| CPCT - Certified Premises Cabling Technician | 5 days | $1,495 |
Confirmed class dates are posted on our training schedule. See the full breakdown on our fiber optic certification cost page.
Do I need experience to take a fiber optic class in Arkansas?
No. The CFOT course is designed for beginners. We recommend completing the Fiber U CFOT online training first so you arrive ready for the hands-on labs.
How far is the training facility from Little Rock?
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock is approximately one hour from our Malvern facility, depending on traffic.
