It has been predicted that over 20 billion connected devices will be in use globally by 2020 and these devices will rely on 5G networks to function properly. However, the launch of 5G is unlikely to come all at once and instead experts anticipate that improvements will be incremental through LTE Advanced and LTE Advance Pro. As a result, a huge demand for 5G ready telecoms engineers is expected. Indeed, a report by the global research and analytical firm IHS Markit found that 5G could support 22 million jobs globally in 2035.So for telecoms engineers looking to up-skill and become 5G ready, what technologies and skills should they be acquiring?
A new conspiracy theory has recently emerged holding 5G technology responsible for the rapid spread of COVID-19. This theory, though, has taken a dangerous turn. Believers of the 5G-COVID-19 link have, in some cases, burned and vandalized cell towers and harrassed telecommunication engineers across the UK and some countries in Europe.
Mark Payne, Head of Network Infrastructure, Networkers explains.“5G ready telecoms engineers will need to broaden their technical knowledge and gain an understanding of new technologies such as; LTE Advanced Pro, SON, C-RAN, HetNet, Mobile Edge Computing, Massive MIMO, NFV, SDN, Network Slicing, Mesh Networks, and IoT”
“Many telecoms companies are increasingly looking for hybrid engineers, so adding a complimentary skill to your portfolio such as Cisco or Juniper certification is a good idea. Also, scripting and learning about open source software will make you more attractive to employers in the 5G jobs market. The added benefit is that many of these new 5G technology skills will be transferable to other industry sectors.”
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