Title: Senior Telecommunications Engineer
Company: Indiana University
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
Thomas B. Cockrum, RCDD, senior telecommunications engineer at Indiana University, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Engineers for dedication, achievements, and leadership in telecommunications.
With over four decades of experience, Mr. Cockrum has built a successful career in cable television, construction, and telecommunications. He currently serves as a senior telecommunications engineer at Indiana University, a role he has held since 2008. In this capacity, he advises the installer group on fiber optic connections, manages contract administration for underground protection systems, and ensures compliance with the Indiana 811 call-before-you-dig program. His responsibilities also include planning system relocations and reconnections, representing the university’s needs, and coordinating with contractors and the fire marshal to ensure job performance and compliance with fire regulations. His previous experience includes serving as an academic laboratory technologist at the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI from 1999 to 2008 and as a project engineer intern at Alt & Witzig Engineering in 2005. Additionally, he owned and operated TBC Contracting from 1997 to 2000, worked as a laborer and pipe fitter at Barry’s Natural Gas Piping Specialists from 1996 to 1997, and began his career as an installer technician at TeleCable of Kokomo from 1983 to 1996.
Additionally, Mr. Cockrum dedicates his time to various organizations, including the Building Industry Consulting Services International (BICSI). He has served as assistant crew adviser for Venture Crew 559 Scout Band since 2005 and as assistant scoutmaster for the Shark Patrol, Troop 427, Crossroads of America Council, Boy Scouts of America since 2004. He is also a long-time volunteer for the restoration and train crew at the Indiana Transportation Museum, a role he has held since 1998. Mr. Cockrum is actively involved with Indy Neighborhood Cats, Inc., and is a member of both the Indiana Live Steamers and the Midwest Live Steam Club.
Laying a solid educational foundation, Mr. Cockrum completed coursework in computer science at Texas A&M University in 1982 and earned a Bachelor of Science in construction engineering technology from Indiana University Indianapolis in 2006. He is a registered communications distribution designer through BICSI, a certification he held from 2010 to 2022, and was a certified fiber optics installer through ETA International from 2013 to 2017. His academic achievements include making the dean’s list in 2006 and receiving a scholarship grant in 2001.
Reflecting on his path, Mr. Cockrum’s career in the cable TV industry began in 1983, when he started as an installer, quickly acquiring essential skills in climbing, ladder use, and customer interaction, marking the beginning of a long and successful career. Between his roles in cable TV and his current position, he expanded his experience by working in the construction and industrial sectors. His time as a hazardous waste site worker was particularly valuable, helping him develop qualifications for confined space operations, which contributed to his professional growth. He takes great pride in being a key designer of the initial fiber upgrade for the Indianapolis campus. He attributes his success to his extensive experience in cable television, construction, and the telecommunications industry. In the coming years, he aims to maximize the potential of their current technologies. He is collaborating with his boss on a project focused on identifying and repurposing existing cables, as well as removing unnecessary cables from the ground. He is also contemplating the possibility of building a personal brand within his industry and considering engaging in public speaking and conducting presentations to share his knowledge and expertise.
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