University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks proposes three projects which include: (1) broadband improvements at rural campuses, (2) increased capacity to manage rural networks, and (3) create an intern program for rural low-income minorities to enter IT careers. The first project will increase the broadband bandwidth at five rural Alaska campuses and two rural centers. New endpoint hardware will be installed, and capacity upgrades purchased from existing service providers. The second activity will increase the number of personnel to help manage the rural campus networks. A technology support technician will be hired to increase the capacity to manage the rural networks and a program coordinator will be hired to support the project. Finally, the third project will place four interns into entry-level paid IT positions to support local businesses.