Amateur radio operators like to complain that the FCC is more political than technical. Well, I don’t know how I missed this, but last April they announced the Honors Engineering Program. According to the press release:
The Commission is seeking new engineering talent to work on cutting-edge issues in the communications and high-tech arenas. This is an opportunity for individuals to gain public sector experience at the beginning of their careers through a valuable one-year career development program. At the end of the one-year program, Honors Program engineers will be eligible for consideration for continued employment at the FCC.
Areas of work at the FCC requiring engineering expertise may involve an array of areas, including:
- Enabling the introduction of new communications technologies and services such as 5G, the Internet of Things, next-generation TV broadcasting; and new broadbandsatellite systems, among others.
- Facilitating the deployment of broadband services throughout the nation, including to rural and underserved areas;
- Identifying technologies to improve access to communications services for all Americans, especially those with disabilities; and
- Supporting the introduction of communications technologies that are vitally important for public safety and homeland security as well as various market sectors such ashealth care, energy, education and transportation
- Developing policies that encourage innovation and investment in new communications devices and services that will support job creation and economic growth.
Sounds like a cool job to me, and I can only imagine that a ham radio license would be a big plus. According to the ARRL’s report, the deadline for applying for the program is November 30, 2018. Interested students can apply online.
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