Cellular Networks and Tower Safety

WBS 101 introduces technicians to the fundamental concepts underpinning current cellular network operations, focusing on fourth and fifth-generation wireless technologies. The curriculum covers core network components, signal propagation, and the principles of radiofrequency (RF) communication. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to vital safety knowledge, including RF radiation exposure limits, hazard identification, and mitigation strategies. Students will also learn about general safety awareness for working around communication towers, understanding fall protection fundamentals, basic rescue concepts, and emergency procedures. This course emphasizes the importance of a safety-first mindset in all technical operations related to wireless infrastructure, preparing students for safe and responsible work practices in the field.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to Wireless Communications and Cellular Networkslecture

02Lesson 2: Evolution of Cellular Technologies: From 1G to Modern Generationslecture

03Lesson 3: Core Architecture of 4G Networkslecture

04Hands-on Lab: Exploring Cellular Network Componentslab

05Lesson 5: Fundamental Principles of 5G Networkslecture

06Lesson 6: Wireless Signal Propagation and Antenna Theory Basicslecture

07Lesson 7: Introduction to Radiofrequency (RF) Energy and Exposurelecture

08Hands-on Lab: Understanding RF Measurement and Safety Zoneslab

09Lesson 9: Regulatory Guidelines and Standards for RF Exposure Safetylecture

10Lesson 10: General Safety Awareness for Communication Tower Environmentslecture

11Hands-on Lab: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Elevated Worklab

12Lesson 12: Fall Protection Principles and Hazard Identificationlecture

13Lesson 13: Emergency Procedures and Basic Rescue Concepts in Elevated Worklecture

14Capstone Service Project: Developing a Site-Specific Safety Planassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to Wireless Communications and Cellular Networks","Week 2: Lesson 2: Evolution of Cellular Technologies: From 1G to Modern Generations","Week 3: Lesson 3: Core Architecture of 4G Networks","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Exploring Cellular Network Components","Week 5: Lesson 5: Fundamental Principles of 5G Networks","Week 6: Lesson 6: Wireless Signal Propagation and Antenna Theory Basics","Week 7: Lesson 7: Introduction to Radiofrequency (RF) Energy and Exposure","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: Understanding RF Measurement and Safety Zones","Week 9: Lesson 9: Regulatory Guidelines and Standards for RF Exposure Safety","Week 10: Lesson 10: General Safety Awareness for Communication Tower Environments","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Elevated Work","Week 12: Lesson 12: Fall Protection Principles and Hazard Identification","Week 13: Lesson 13: Emergency Procedures and Basic Rescue Concepts in Elevated Work","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Developing a Site-Specific Safety Plan"]