The Director of Engineering at the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority, Ms. Virginia Tuiolosega, has officially earned her certification as a Telefocal Certified Submarine Cable System Expert.
ASTCA says this prestigious milestone was achieved following an intensive five-day certification course and a rigorous proctored examination. As ASTCA continues to lead critical infrastructure projects—including the Google Le Vasa Cable initiative—developing local expertise is a cornerstone of the Authority’s mission to ensure a self-sufficient and self-sustaining digital future for American Samoa.
The certification program, delivered virtually from Singapore, provided Ms. Tuiolosega with in-depth technical and commercial expertise essential for managing the backbone of global internet connectivity. By utilizing the LIVE Virtual Training option, ASTCA secured world-class training while significantly reducing travel costs. Through this course, Ms. Tuiolosega gained mastery in advanced infrastructure, including “wet” and “dry” plant components, and optical transmission technologies such as Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM). She also acquired comprehensive knowledge of project lifecycle management, marine surveys, and international regulations such as the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“We are moving past the days of relying on outside help,” stated ASTCA CEO Folasaitu Sorepa Thomas. “By investing our resources into the development of our local team, we ensure that our people are not only trained but fully prepared to lead our technical future.
Next week, ASTCA is sending a delegation to Los Angeles for the Fiber Optic Conference, which includes the Logistics Team, the Procurement Officer, the Stock Manager, and the Accountable Officer. Simultaneously, the Grants Department will travel to San Diego for a mandatory workshop on Federal Grants and the Anti-Deficiency Act.
Furthermore, ASTCA is reinforcing its digital defenses by sending a delegation to Idaho Falls, Idaho. These team members will undergo specialized Cybersecurity Certification through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under the Federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) program.
