BICSI Brief Volume 3, Issue 2 | May 2025

More than words from WOMEN BICSI in My name is Summer Sanders, INSTF®, and I was honored to participate in [the 2025] BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge. In addition to applying for the challenge, I also applied for the BICSI Cares Women in BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge Grant, which I was fortunate enough to receive. When I got the call about the grant, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Being chosen to represent women in such a male-dominated industry is truly indescribable. I won’t lie – I felt the pressure, but it fueled me to prepare thoroughly for the challenge. I practiced copper, fiber, and reviewed the ITSIMM to ensure I was ready for all the events. The BICSI Cares Women in BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge breakfast was exceptional. It was inspiring to witness the dedication to supporting women in this field. Knowing there’s a community cheering you on, genuinely rooting for your success, and offering guidance along the way was incredibly uplifting. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and motivating. On the first day of the Skills Challenge, I felt insecure and doubted myself. It was intimidating being surrounded by peers with more certifications and years of experience. But throughout the events, I was encouraged by so many competitors. Their words of support gave me the confidence I needed,

Stay engaged with BICSI throughout the year! BICSI Membership Advantage

Maximize Your BICSI Membership Through Active Participation Your BICSI membership is more than just a badge of honor – it connects you to a dynamic community shaping the future of the ICT industry. To fully leverage your membership benefits, active engagement is essential. How to Get Involved: • Volunteer for a committee: Contribute your expertise to support BICSI initiatives. Opportunities include participating in industry standards development or contributing to BICSI publications. • Mentor future professionals: Guide the next generation of ICT professionals by sharing your knowledge and experience through our mentoring programs. • Attend events and training: Stay informed, expand your network, and advance your skills by participating in BICSI conferences, training sessions, and webinars. Benefits of Active Participation: • Professional growth: Develop leadership skills, expand your network, and increase your professional visibility. • Industry influence: Contribute to the development of industry standards and shape the future of the ICT profession.

• Community contribution: Support aspiring professionals and make a meaningful impact on the ICT community. • Stronger connections: Build lasting relationships with fellow ICT professionals who share your passion. Explore BICSI Navigator While exploring volunteer opportunities on the BICSI website, be sure to check out BICSI Navigator, our new centralized platform designed to enhance your BICSI experience. Current features include your membership profile and directory, with credential management and course tracking coming soon. Serving as a volunteer can have a profound influence on your life and the community you serve. Whether you volunteer with BICSI or another organization, we encourage you to put your knowledge and skills to work to make a positive impact on your community for today and the future. Thanks, BICSI!

and I began to realize my own capabilities. By the second day, I felt much more con- fident, and by the end of it, all my nerves had disappeared. I was proud – not only of myself but also of every competitor, each coming from different backgrounds, yet we all supported one another. The camaraderie was truly selfless. For any women in the ICT field with a BICSI certification, I highly encourage you to join this event. The sense of accomplishment and pride you’ll feel as a female competitor is unimaginable. Don’t doubt yourself or limit what you’re capable of. The BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge is all about showcasing skill, and I had the chance to do just that. I would love to see more women participate in the future, and I hope my involvement will inspire other women to step outside their comfort zones and compete in upcoming events. I’d like to thank IES Communications for motivating me to take part in the Skills Challenge and the BICSI Cares Women in BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge Grant for giving me this opportunity to represent women in the ICT field.

Kevin Minot, MS Membership & Volunteer Services Manager membership@bicsi.org or volunteerservices@bicsi.org

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