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Luna County leaders tout broadband and workforce programs as part of economic push
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Summary
Commissioners discussed broadband expansion and workforce training: Resound Networks' fiber project could reach roughly 3,000 local residents with over $10 million in combined funds, and a boot camp funded through the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion will offer fiber-optic installer training; a local firm (Famco) is developing an apprenticeship for heavy-equipment operators.
Commissioners heard updates on broadband expansion and workforce development initiatives that county leaders say could support local economic growth.
A county commissioner reported that Resound Networks, in coordination with the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion and workforce partners, has assembled more than $10 million in funding for a fiber and wireless project intended to serve roughly 3,000 local residents. The speaker said a formal groundbreaking and additional local announcements are expected as work proceeds.
The county also highlighted a grant-funded boot camp scheduled for spring that will provide paid tuition and equipment for participants training to be fiber-optic installers; the county expects the contractor to run an initial one-week class in April or May and to offer additional classes after July.
Separately, commissioners described a private-sector apprenticeship organized by Famco (a local general contractor) to develop heavy-equipment operators. The firm is investing in training and simulator equipment (the presenter noted simulators cost more than $100,000), with hopes the first class will start within the first quarter.
County leaders framed these efforts as complementary: better broadband can support remote work and business growth while targeted training aims to create a local skilled workforce to support construction and technology projects. Commissioners said they will continue discussions with state partners and providers to secure funding and program details.
