Foothills Communication Case Study

Foothills Communication is a NTCA Gig Certified provider of high-speed fiber-based Internet, DH cable TV over its fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) network, local phone service, custom class calling features and long-distance services. They are based in Kentucky and operate throughout the state in different counties. Foothills take pride in growing neighborhood networks by bringing fiber technologies to local communities and making advanced services possible in rural areas.

With the need for travelling and splicing in rural areas, James was looking for a solution to operate more efficiently, safely and get to those hard-to-reach places. James is a fiber splicing technician at Foothills communication that has worked in different roles and a lot of different environments. With a need to be more productive and after learning about James’ requirements, past experiences and what he would need to work at his best, he purchased our Standard Fiber Optic Splicing Truck Cap (SB-01) which has enabled James to reach all locations, service more customers & perform his work in a productive environment.

We recently caught up with James to see how he found his experience with Sterling Fleet Outfitters, and to give us his thoughts on our Fiber Optic Splicing Truck Cap.

– How did you first hear about our service?
I did several Google searches looking at splicing capsules and your website provided the clearest description of the product I was looking for.

– What challenges/problems necessitated a change?
I was a fiber splicer for several years before I went into management and became a supervisor. I spent 7 years in management and decided it wasn’t for me. I left management and returned to fiber splicing. At 49 years old, I was older and wiser, and I had an idea of what I needed to be more productive and efficient. I had always worked out of splicing tents and splicing trailers and realized that neither was a good option for the type of work I do.  I needed something that offered more protection from the elements than a tent and was more maneuverable than a trailer.

– What were you looking for in a solution?
I was looking for a splicing capsule with ladder racks that could haul a 32-foot extension ladder. I was looking for a splicing capsule that was quality constructed. I was looking for a stable work bench with plenty of work space. I was looking for a window for natural lighting plus adequate led lighting over the work bench. I was looking for air conditioning and heat for year-round use. I was looking for storage space for large boxes and shelving for smaller materials and parts.

– What feature of our product was most appealing?
I think the overall design is excellent. It’s hard to name one feature as the most appealing but if I have to pick one, I’m going say the work bench. It’s built like a tank. It’s the right width and the right length and the right height. It has a metal top that is practically indestructible and works well with magnetic parts trays and tool holders. I’m not always parked on level ground and it’s good that my tools don’t slide off the bench. The metal top is black and that cuts down on light reflection that can cause eye strain and fatigue. The bright LED lights overhead illuminate the work area without reflecting back at you.

– What was the initial reaction to our product?
I was impressed by the construction quality. Good fit and finish on window, doors, generator box and slide out generator tray. I was also impressed with the bed rail clamping system and how well it worked.

– How has our solution helped since implementation?
It’s made my job better because it has reduced the impact that the weather can have on my work. I would estimate that 6 months out of the year I experience weather that is not optimal to fiber splicing. There is excessive heat, excessive cold, rain, snow, wind, and such that affects your work and affects your wellbeing. The splicing capsule will go to more places a splicing trailer will not and you’re not constantly asking yourself “should I take a splicing trailer?”

– Has this solution saved money and/or increased productivity?
I can honestly say that my production is higher than before the splicing capsule. I’m not constantly restocking work materials because I can haul enough materials for 3-4 days of work on my truck. I’m not running around going through bin doors searching for materials because everything is within arm’s reach of the work bench.

– What have you been most impressed with?
I’m most impressed with the ability to bring the splicing capsule to the splice. I’ve gone places a bucket truck or splicing trailer could never have gone. It’s not just better access on narrow roads and 4-wheeler trails in the rural areas but also the back alleys downtown and the congested parking. I only take up one parking space downtown and I’m not continuously looking for a place to turn around. I’m not blocking driveways and disrupting traffic. I’m not calling the office requesting a team of flaggers because I’m no longer creating a safety issue.

– Has there been any events in your career where our products have been particularly beneficial to you?
It was very beneficial during an ice storm that happened in February 2021. I was working 12 hours a day, 6 days a week and I basically lived out of the splicing capsule.

As you can read, Foothills Communication stands behind the the Sterling Fiber Optic Splicing capsule as it is hardworking, tough, efficient and capable of going anywhere. The mobile splicing lab ensures that you are offering your customer the best possible experience as there are no potential delays due to terrain, trailer breakdown, weather (hot or cold), parking or not having all the correct equipment with you. When choosing Sterling, you are going to be overwhelmed with the quality, professionalism and turn-around time. If you’re a fiber splicer anywhere in North America, don’t waste any more time searching for a solution.

Sterling’s Fiber Optic Splicing Truck Caps Used by Foothills Communication

Sterling Fleet Outfitters has developed an Industry Leading Fiber Optic Splicing Capsules range for pickup trucks that have changed the game in the Fiber Optic Splicing industry. Truck capsules are an excellent alternative to Trailers, as you have the flexibility to carry a crew, the ability to travel off road when required, they are longer lasting, and they are transferable. The body of the Sterling’s Fiber Optic Splicing Capsules are the toughest truck cap on the market. It is the only truck cap made of a one-piece fiberglass mold. This ensures that there are no weak points to allow damage, leakage or condensation. The prevention of leaks is especially important to prevent fungus growth like toxic mold.

Major Benefits:
– Low Lifetime Cost
– Boosts Efficiency
– Maneuverable
– Durable

Our Range:

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