An Interview with BICSI Board President Dave Richards, the Visionary Behind the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge

January 14, 2025 / General, 101 learning, Best Practices

In 2007, the BICSI Board of Directors formed the NextGen Working Group to develop creative initiatives that would attract the next generation of ICT professionals. As a member of that group, David Richards, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, proposed an annual competition that would highlight the skills and dedication of cabling professionals, raise the bar for industry standards and best practices, and promote BICSI’s world-renowned Cabling Installation Program. The result: the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge, now in its 17th year.

Man in a dark polo shirt stands next to a winner’s trophy and check with a whistle in his mouth and stopwatch in hand

^{Image of Dave Richards courtesy of BICSI}

The 2025 challenge, with events modeled after the various labs found in all four levels of the BICSI installation program courses, will take place on Monday and Tuesday at the 2025 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition, February 2-6, in Orlando, Florida. As a longtime sponsor, Fluke Networks is proud to provide competitors with Versiv™ cable certification testers, including the DSX CableAnalyzer™ for copper and the CertiFiber^® Pro for fiber. We’re also proud to have one of our experts serve as a judge for the competition. Sponsoring the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge strengthens our industry relationships and helps ensure best testing practices for the next generation of ICT installers.

As the competitors prepare to showcase their talents, we talked with Dave Richards himself, the visionary behind the challenge and the current BICSI Board President.

How has the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge transformed over the years?

“What was initially a modest competition has grown into a global stage for excellence in cabling. Today’s Cabling Skills Challenge features complex, real-world challenges that test participants’ precision, problem-solving, and adaptability. The event has also evolved alongside the industry, incorporating the latest tools, advanced scoring systems, and broader participation from professionals worldwide. It’s no longer just about winning — it’s about showcasing the future of ICT.”

How has competitor feedback shaped the competition’s current format?

“We’re always listening to our competitors. Their feedback has been instrumental in making the Cabling Skills Challenge what it is today — a competition that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. Their input has helped us refine the tasks, improve scoring transparency, and make the event even more impactful. Participants often tell us they value the opportunity to compete using real-world scenarios and cutting-edge tools.”

Why are sponsors like Fluke Networks vital to the event’s success?

“Sponsors like Fluke Networks are the lifeblood of the Cabling Skills Challenge. Without them, the event wouldn’t be what it is today. The contributions of our sponsors go far beyond financial support. Their involvement shows a commitment to fostering talent and innovation in the ICT industry, helping us take the competition to new heights by ensuring it reflects the latest industry standards and supporting its growth into a truly international event. Competitors often tell us how much they appreciate the chance to work with the latest tools and technology like the Fluke Networks Versiv CableAnalyzer series of testers, which not only enhances their performance during the event but also gives them a tangible advantage in their careers.”

How do the judges contribute to the development of the contestants?

“The judges bring unparalleled expertise to the table. Many of them come from sponsor companies like Fluke Networks, which means they have a deep understanding of the technology and standards that competitors are measured against. Their contribution isn’t just about evaluating performance — it’s about mentoring and guiding contestants to reach new levels of professionalism. The Cabling Skills Challenge is as much a learning opportunity as it is a competition. Whether from interacting with judges who are industry veterans or engaging with peers who bring their own unique experiences and approaches, the contestants are constantly learning. These interactions create an environment where knowledge is shared, and skills are honed.”

What exciting developments are on the horizon for the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge?

“We’re excited about what’s ahead for the Cabling Skills Challenge. With the recent rollout of the global BICSI Affiliate program, we’re expanding our outreach to include even more participants from around the globe. We’re also introducing new challenges that reflect the rapid growth of ICT and the convergence of IoT and emerging technologies, pushing the boundaries of what professionals can achieve and highlighting their critical role in an increasingly connected world.

“The Cabling Skills Challenge is not just a career milestone for participants but also a significant contributor to the industry’s growth. Each year, we strive to make the competition bigger, better, and more impactful for everyone involved. For example, the upcoming 2025 Challenge will introduce some exciting new elements. We’re focusing on sustainable cabling practices and have expanded the popular conference attendee speed challenge area to include additional hands-on opportunities hosted by even more leading ICT product manufacturers. These changes not only reflect where the industry is headed but also ensure the competition remains at the forefront of technology and innovation.”

For Fluke Networks, sponsoring the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge is a chance to be part of something bigger. Whether you’re an aspiring champion, a dedicated sponsor, or simply passionate about the ICT industry, there’s a place for you. Get involved! For event updates, to sign up as a competitor, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge.

As BICSI Board President Dave Richards himself proclaims, “This competition celebrates the best our industry has to offer, and we’d love to see you there!”