Send us a text Unlock the secrets to elevating your career in the ICT industry with insights from international trainer Sheriff! In this episode of Let's Talk Cabling, Sheriff joins us to discuss the unique challenges and significant importance of credentialing in Saudi Arabia's ICT sector. From tackling cultural and language barriers to overcoming resource limitations, Sheriff shares his experience as the managing director of ProSkills Trainings, a BICSI-authorized training facility dedicated t...
Oct 01, 2024•44 min
Send us a text Are you ready to grasp the core concepts of low voltage systems like never before? Join us as we unravel the intricacies of volts, amps, current, and watts with experts Matt Apfel and Brandon Duffy from the Electrical JATC of Southern Nevada. Brandon's analogy of volts as electrical pressure will illuminate how electrons flow, while Matt demystifies the elusive definitions of low and high voltage, setting the stage for understanding the latest technologies like power over Ethernet...
Sep 24, 2024•42 min
Send us a text Discover how to elevate your career in the ICT industry with expert insights from Christopher Hobbs, an experienced RCDD and certified trainer. In our latest episode, Christopher breaks down the unparalleled benefits of BICSI Learning Academy's training programs, both face-to-face and virtual, underscoring the unique personal touch and interactive elements that set them apart. From installation to advanced design and project management, get a comprehensive look at the diverse arra...
Sep 17, 2024•38 min
Send us a text Unlock the secrets of anti-static flooring and its crucial role in ICT environments with our special guest, Dave Long from Staticworx, a seasoned expert in static electricity issues since 1976. Listen as we break down the often overlooked intricacies of anti-static flooring, why it’s indispensable for telecommunications rooms (TRs), and the glaring gaps in industry standards like the Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual (TDMM). We'll also touch upon the vital need for be...
Sep 09, 2024•49 min
Send us a text Tune in to our latest episode where we kick things off with our signature "What are you drinking?" segment, and we'll keep you on your toes with our acronym challenge, spotlighting ETA—the Electrical Training Alliance—and unpack its evolution from NJATC. We also dive into the age-old union versus non-union debate and consider whether electricians should tackle low-voltage cabling. Plus, gear up for a sneak peek of an upcoming episode featuring a special guest who’s set to compare ...
Sep 04, 2024•31 min
Send us a text What if your favorite Wednesday night ritual included not only a drink in hand but also a deep dive into the podcasting world? This special anniversary episode is a cheers-worthy celebration of our growth, from humble beginnings recording in a closet to reaching an incredible 48,000 downloads spread across 265 episodes. We also explore the ever-important role of RSS in podcasting, through a fun and educational acronym challenge. As we celebrate this fourth anniversary, we reflect ...
Aug 29, 2024•28 min
Send us a text Unlock the secrets to transforming recruiters from gatekeepers to allies with insights from David Gittleman, the seasoned recruiter and owner of the Woods Group. Discover how to build long-term, meaningful relationships with recruiters through consistent networking and communication, turning them into powerful advocates who can connect you with opportunities across multiple clients, even years down the line. Learn the crucial differences between recruiters and HR personnel, and wh...
Aug 27, 2024•46 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how to supercharge your social media presence as a low voltage installer? This episode promises to provide you with essential strategies, tips, and insights to elevate your online game. From decoding the importance of obtaining client permissions before sharing project photos to leveraging social media for lead generation, we've got you covered. We start with a fun "What are you drinking?" segment before diving into the nitty-gritty of Internet Protocols and giving p...
Aug 21, 2024•32 min
Send us a text Unlock the secrets behind the prestigious Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) credential with our special guest, Joy Andis, the Credentialing Operations Manager at the BICSI Certification Institute. Discover the fascinating journey of the RCDD, from its inception in 1984 to its evolution into a benchmark of excellence in the industry. Joy sheds light on the meticulous three to five-year process of updating and developing new exams, involving essential steps like...
Aug 20, 2024•24 min
Send us a text Can skilled technicians truly excel as project managers without formal training? Unpack the complexities of project management in the ICT industry as we debunk myths, share essential tips, and highlight the importance of certifications like RTPM and PMP. From managing multiple projects and schedules to navigating budgets and risks, we clarify the crucial role of project managers and the pitfalls of unprepared transitions. To keep things fun, we also explore our drinks of choice an...
Aug 15, 2024•37 min
Send us a text What if the key to your ICT project's success lies in an often-overlooked safety measure? Join us this week as we unlock the secrets of fire stopping in the ICT industry. You'll discover the fascinating world of intumescent materials—how they expand under heat to seal gaps—and the various types of non-mechanical firestop systems like putties, caulks, and foams. Learn why proper installation and structural containment are critical to preventing the spread of fire, heat, smoke, and ...
Aug 12, 2024•19 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how maintaining professionalism can elevate your career? Today, we’re diving into that very topic, with insights pulled from my day job and the revered Information Technology Systems Installation Methods Manual (ITSIMM). We'll start with an engaging acronym challenge centered on ITSIMM to set the stage. Reflecting on interactions with highly professional customers, we’ll discuss how best practice manuals help technicians learn from seasoned experts. We’ll also share ...
Aug 08, 2024•33 min
Send us a text Ever wondered why ceiling height can make or break your telecom room's efficiency? Join us for a deep dive into the world of telecom room ceilings, where we promise to unravel the secrets behind optimal installation efficiency and impeccable cable performance. Discover why a 10-foot ceiling is a game-changer compared to the minimum 8 feet, and how getting involved in the design process can make all the difference. We'll share practical insights on cable dressing, minimizing damage...
Aug 06, 2024•18 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how industry standards and certifications come to life? Join me for a special, behind-the-scenes journey to BICSI, where you'll get exclusive access to the BICSI Learning Academy, insights into the development of codes, standards, and best practices, and a captivating interview with industry expert Chris Hobbs on training programs. Participate in our engaging acronym challenge and share your thoughts in the comments as I navigate my way to the upcoming BICSI fall con...
Aug 01, 2024•25 min
Send us a text What if you could dramatically enhance your cabling project efficiency and performance? On today's episode of "Let's Talk Cabling," we unlock the secrets of Modular Plug Terminated Links (MPTLs), revolutionizing the way we connect devices like wireless access points, security cameras, and industrial sensors. We compare this innovative method to traditional horizontal cabling and highlight the significant benefits of using MPTLs, such as reduced signal loss and improved overall net...
Jul 30, 2024•21 min
Send us a text Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to go haywire? I kick off today's episode with a hilarious personal story about my trip to the eye doctor, where I ended up wearing some funky glasses thanks to my dilated pupils. Trust me, you won't want to miss the trivia challenge that followed, as our listeners quickly nailed the answer to a tough question on attenuation crosstalk ratio far-end (ACR-F). We revisit last week's structured cabling systems discussion, divi...
Jul 25, 2024•27 min
Send us a text Ever wondered why your network setup never quite hits the mark? Discover the secret sauce behind seamless communication systems in this jam-packed episode on structured cabling systems. We break down the core components and subsystems that make up the backbone of modern telecommunications, ensuring compatibility across various platforms. Learn why adhering to universal standards, such as terminating all four pairs of wires on a single connector, is crucial for flawless operation. ...
Jul 23, 2024•22 min
Send us a text We journey back a few episodes to discuss installing plywood. Ever wonder why so many telecom rooms suffer from equipment damage or personal injury? Discover the critical steps you must take to verify the maximum load capacity of your walls and the essential techniques for correct plywood sizing and cutting. We reveal how these overlooked tasks can make your telecom setup safer and more stable, protecting both your equipment and your team. Join our after-hours live multi-stream se...
Jul 17, 2024•28 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how to keep your network running smoothly despite common cable issues? Join me on this thrilling episode of the After Hours Live Podcast as I recount my recent tech disasters, an unforgettable two-week vacation, and an eye injury that left me offline for three grueling weeks. Learn from my experiences and get ready to tackle our acronym challenge, where we reveal the meaning of AXT—Alien Crosstalk—and its significance in cable interference. We explore the ins and out...
Jul 13, 2024•29 min
Send us a text Curious about the future of data center connectivity? Tune in to our conversation with Mark Weiniger from CEcomm, a veteran with over 26 years of experience in the field. Mark sheds light on the rising interest in fiber optics, clarifying the distinctions between single mode and multi-mode fiber optic cabling. Discover why single mode fiber is increasingly the go-to solution for data centers, offering superior performance over longer distances. Gain actionable insights on best pra...
Jul 09, 2024•38 min
Send us a text What if you could save a customer millions on their next ICT project while ensuring seamless integration and customer satisfaction? Our latest episode takes you through the transformative world of the design-build model, featuring insights from Eric at Power Design. Learn how this approach provides a seamless experience by offering a single point of contact throughout the entire project lifecycle, minimizing miscommunications and costly errors. From multi-dwelling units to high-en...
Jul 02, 2024•53 min
Send us a text Unlock the future of the ICT industry with John Daniels, CEO of BICSI, as he shares insights on emerging trends and the relentless pace of technological evolution. Discover how BICSI members, spanning industries from healthcare to aerospace, are transforming the landscape with innovative solutions. Join us as John discusses the significance of continuous learning and how BICSI supports designers, installers, and project managers in staying ahead of the curve. Get an insider's look...
Jun 17, 2024•43 min
Send us a text Ever wondered what truly keeps job sites safe and sound? This episode of "Live After Hours" is packed with essential insights and lively banter, starting from our fun check-in on what's in everyone's cup—I'm mixing things up with a rare Coca-Cola this time! Sporting my favorite BICSI T-shirt, we dive into an engaging round of reverse acronyms with Michael from the chat, making sense of terms like OSHA and VMS. The heart of our discussion centers around a LinkedIn follower's query ...
Jun 14, 2024•28 min
Send us a text Are smart buildings the key to a more efficient and sustainable future? Join us as we explore this intriguing question with our guest, Jeff, who unveils the latest advancements in smart building technology. From the critical roles of Power over Ethernet (PoE), Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7, Zigbee, and LoRa, we discuss how these technologies are revolutionizing modern infrastructure. Learn how they streamline installation processes by eliminating the need for separate power lines and the impac...
Jun 11, 2024•23 min
Send us a text Could the smallest bend in your fiber optic cable be sabotaging your network performance? On tonight’s episode of "After Hours, Live with Chuck Bowser RCDD," we explore the intricate world of fiber optic cable bends. Starting with our ever-popular "What are you drinking?" segment, we quickly transition into the nitty-gritty of micro-bends and macro-bends. Learn how these seemingly minor deviations can lead to significant light loss and compromised fiber performance. Chuck offers p...
Jun 07, 2024•33 min
Send us a text What if your office building could adjust its own temperature based on the number of people inside? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jeff Chretien, a seasoned expert from Old Castle Infrastructure, as we uncover the cutting-edge trends and innovations shaping the future of smart buildings. From Single-pair Ethernet to fault-managed power systems, Jeff shares his vast knowledge and firsthand experiences, shedding light on how robust communication systems are revolutioni...
Jun 03, 2024•30 min
Send us a text Unlock the secrets of creating and managing successful RCDD study groups with our latest episode! Ever wondered how to boost your industry status and salary potential through certification? Join us as we share invaluable guidelines for forming study groups that not only aid in mastering the rigorous RCDD exam but also foster a strong learning community. We'll take you through the essential ways to tackle complex concepts and terminologies, ensuring you build a solid foundation fro...
May 31, 2024•43 min
Send us a text Ready to revolutionize your understanding of ICT infrastructure? We're thrilled to have Bob Hertling RCDD, OSP, an industry veteran with an impressive 47-year career, guide us through the transformative 15th edition of the Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual (TDMM). Gain exclusive insights into Bob's journey from the US Coast Guard to major roles in Parsons Corporation and beyond, as he unveils the crucial role the TDMM plays in shaping the future of ICT infrastructure ...
May 28, 2024•31 min
Send us a text Ready to unlock the secrets of a successful career in the ICT industry? Let's jumpstart your path to expertise with insights on how passion fuels creativity and resilience in the workplace. Chuck Bowser, your trusty RCDD, is back to share his infectious enthusiasm for all things ICT. From decoding acronyms to sipping ginger Zevia and quoting Albert Schweitzer, this episode is a beacon for anyone looking to infuse their career with joy and success. We kick things off with an engagi...
May 24, 2024•33 min
Send us a text Discover the unspoken truths of copper certification testing as we're joined by Tom Jallo, a Softing expert who demystifies the critical standards shaping the cabling industry. We delve into the absolute necessity of testing the complete channel or permanent link, ensuring compliance with the strictest of standards. In a world where every connection counts, we also spotlight the MPTL limit — a game-changer for modern ceiling applications. Together, we unpack the importance of usin...
May 20, 2024•40 min
