The telecommunications industry provides communication services globally, generating large revenue and employment. Deregulation and privatisation have led to innovation and technological advancement. Wired and wireless communications, including cell phones, are part of the industry. Career options include installers, maintenance personnel, office workers, sales/marketing, and software engineers/designers. The Telecommunications Industry Association oversees the industry’s safety and performance standards and invests in worker training.
The telecommunications or telecommunications industry includes all businesses, individuals and commercial organizations that provide communication services to people around the world. The global telecommunications industry not only accounts for large amounts of annual revenue but also employs large numbers of people both in the office and in the field. Through the telecommunications industry, consumers can enjoy telephone, Internet, data transfer and a number of additional communication services.
Historically, many telecommunications fields have been subject to government regulation or even government ownership. In recent years, however, much of the telecommunications industry has been subject to deregulation or privatisation. This has not only led to new offerings and greater flexibility for consumers, it has also paved the way for rapid innovation and technological advancement.
Wired communications represent the largest field in the telecommunications industry. This field includes landline home phone service, fax machines, and even cable television. Wired communication also includes most residential and commercial Internet services, including dial-up and DSL plans.
The telecommunications industry is also responsible for the transmission of wireless communications, largely through the use of radio towers. This includes the ever-growing cell phone industry as well as mobile data service for phones and laptops. Telecommunications professionals also cover satellite services, including those used in space exploration and government-sponsored programs.
Those interested in a career in this field can choose from many positions. Installers and maintenance personnel make up the largest number of telecommunications workers and are responsible for laying cables and installing or repairing equipment. These workers may visit homes and businesses to help customers resolve service issues or to train users on equipment. Field personnel are subject to the greatest dangers in this field due to the risk of electric shock and other injuries.
Other telecom workers are employed in office buildings and are largely responsible for receiving customer calls. Some work in sales or marketing, while others support field staff. Software engineers and designers can also find positions in this field. All potential telecommunications candidates must stay abreast of the latest technologies, as the field is changing rapidly to take advantage of new advancements.
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is an international group that assumes responsibility for much of the oversight in this field. This group represents many telecommunications sectors and is active in a large number of countries. The TIA develops safety and performance standards for telecommunications equipment and installations, and also invests in training workers in this field.
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