What is the OpTIC Path Rodeo?
The OpTIC Path Rodeo returns to Fiber Connect 2026 as a high-energy skills competition for fiber professionals. Technicians and field teams go head-to-head in timed challenges that showcase the craft, precision, and problem-solving needed to build world-class fiber networks. It is equal parts competition and celebration of the people who power America’s digital future.
Meet the Competitors
David Becerra
I’m a God-fearing man with a growing family. I love the outdoors, and eating delicious food.
Years in Fiber: 4 Years
Favorite Tool: Thermal Stripper
Favorite Hobby: Soccer
Christopher Camarena
I’m passionate about growing my career, learning, playing with my three growing boys, and worship.
Years in Fiber: A Couple
Favorite Tool: Cable Stripper
Favorite Hobby: Golf
Dillion Ferguson
I grew up in the teleco industry. These days, I’m running my own splicing company.
Years in Fiber: 12 Years
Favorite Tool: EXFO 730D OTDR
Favorite Hobby: Snow Skiing
Jasmine Boyce
I’m pretty outgoing and hardworking. Always ready to learn and make a new connection!
Years in Fiber: I’m new!
Favorite Tool: Splicer
Favorite Hobby: Music
Kerri Rauch
I’ve done everything from fixing printers for Army Generals to splicing fiber 30 ft. in the air.
Years in Fiber: 6 Years
Favorite Tool: Flashlight
Favorite Hobby: Reading
Kole Piper
I’ve traveled the country going from I&R to FTTH. I grew my career and started my own company in 2025.
Years in Fiber: 13 Years
Favorite Tool: Straight Blade
Favorite Hobby: Does work count?
Kyle Fawcett
I’ve built and maintained a variety of networks. I enjoy a challenge and I’m always excited to learn!
Years in Fiber: 5 Years
Favorite Tool: Kevlar Shears
Favorite Hobby: Tabletop Gaming
Nick Wynne
I enjoy solving complex problems, maintaining safety standards, and providing great service.
Years in Fiber: 7 Years
Favorite Tool: Kevlar Shears
Favorite Hobby: 8 Ball Pool
Paul Holborn
I’ve worked on networks all over the globe. These days, I’m leading large-scale network buildouts.
Years in Fiber: 10 Years
Favorite Tool: MSAT Tool
Favorite Hobby: Running
Riley Flaig
Committed to providing quality work every day and passionate about contributing to the industry.
Years in Fiber: 16 Years
Favorite Tool: Ribbonizer
Favorite Hobby: Snowmobiling
Ryan Zimmer
I’ve been running my YouTube channel @FiberSpliceGod for the past 4 years. 11,000+ subs!
Years in Fiber: 13 Years
Favorite Tool: Snips & Cable Knife
Favorite Hobby: Gym
Steven Clark
My wife and 2 kids are my world. I love working in an industry that’s advancing & filled with challenges.
Years in Fiber: 4.5 Years
Favorite Tool: Shears
Favorite Hobby: Metal Detecting
$1,000 Cash Prize and Bragging Rights
The overall champion earns a $1,000 cash prize and yearlong bragging rights as a top fiber technician. Whether you compete or cheer from the sidelines, the Rodeo is a can’t-miss feature of Fiber Connect 2026.
Who Can Participate?
Open to network operators, engineers, technicians, trainees, and anyone with practical experience installing, testing, and maintaining fiber networks. If you are passionate about fiber and ready to test your skills, this event is for you.
Event
Schedule
Day 1: Monday – Technical Rodeo
12:45 Rodeo Welcome/Introductions/Rules
1:00 Cable Prep Challenge
1:40 Fusion & Closure Challenge
2:35 MDU Restoration & Light Challenge
3:35 Fiber IQ Trivia
5:00 Awards Ceremony
Day 2: Tuesday – OpTIC Path Rodeo Presentations
7:30 – 12:00 Fiber Gaming Network Simulators
9:00 Welcome from FBA Workforce Development Team
9:10 OpTIC Path in Action – Orange County Public Schools
9:25 OpTIC Path in Action – Sno-Isle TECH Center
9:40 Industry Insider Chat with Clearfield, Inc.
9:55 Industry Insider Chat with Fiber Gaming Network
10:10 Industry Insider Chat with Jonard Tools
10:25 Industry Insider Chat with PLP
10:40 Industry Insider Chat with Sumitomo
10:55 Industry Insider Chat with Viavi
11:10 Industry Insider Chat with Ripley
11:25 Industry Insider Chat with UCL Swift
11:40 OpTIC Path in Action – S&N Communications
Judging Criteria
Safety, workmanship, tool use, test results, speed with quality, and adherence to standards.
What We Provide
Workstations, materials, and required test equipment are supplied. Competitors may bring personal hand tools that meet event safety guidelines.
Why the Rodeo Matters
The Rodeo is inspired by the Fiber Broadband Association’s OpTIC Path™ Training Curriculum, a comprehensive program that builds the core competencies needed to design, install, maintain, and troubleshoot fiber networks. As demand for skilled technicians grows, OpTIC Path equips the workforce with the knowledge and hands-on practice needed to excel. The Rodeo brings those skills to life and underscores the importance of continued workforce development.
A Celebration of Skill and Achievement
This is more than a competition. Live demonstrations spotlight the techniques that keep fiber networks reliable, resilient, and ready for the future. It reflects FBA’s mission to advance fiber connectivity and to recognize the professionals who make it possible.
Sponsored By:
We’re all booked up!
Pre-Register for Next year’s rodeo
Registration Disclaimer: By submitting the form below, you agree to receive communications related to the Fiber Connect 2027 OpTIC Path Rodeo. Registration does not guarantee entrance. The Fiber Broadband Association reserves the right to refuse participation for any reason.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are selected to participate in the Rodeo, your Fiber Connect registration fee will be waived. If you have already registered, a refund of the registration fee will be issued. This waiver and refund apply to conference registration only and do not cover hotel accommodations, airfare, or other travel-related expenses.