On March 25, Calix announced that its longtime customer CLtel and the nonprofit Guardian Group have launched the IFAST Toolkit, enhancing the Operation IFAST program that trains broadband field technicians to recognize the signs of human trafficking during onsite visits.
Calix recently integrated Operation IFAST materials into Calix University with the aim of equipping more BSPs with the training necessary to combat human trafficking.
John Durocher, chief customer officer at Calix, said that, beyond providing broadband, BSPs invest in the future of the communities in which they operate.
“Calix is honored to stand alongside CLtel, Guardian Group, and the BSPs leading this charge,” said Durocher in a press release. “We call on all broadband providers to take action now—every moment matters in this critical fight.”
Calix reports that currently, more than 60 BSPs in 17 states have joined Operation IFAST, with the program reaching thousands of broadband professionals nationwide.
CLtel COO and IFAST co-founder Chris Lovell said he is confident that the program will soon have trained technicians in every state.
“Broadband service providers are uniquely positioned to spot signs of human trafficking and report them quickly because of their close community interactions and relationships with local law enforcement,” said Lovell in the same press release. “The impact is already clear—early adopters have identified red flags they once missed, and field technicians have embraced the training with pride and responsibility.”
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Hayden Beeson
Hayden Beeson is a writer and editor with over seven years of experience in a variety of industries. Prior to joining Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, he was the associate editor of Architectural SSL and LEDs Magazine.