John Rupf, an associate professor in Southern Polytechnic State University's School of Computer Science and Software Engineering,has been awarded the professional designation of RCDD/LAN specialist by the BISCI telecommunications association. Registered RCDD/LAN specialists are professionals in the area of LAN and networking design, and have a complete understanding of networking and cabling technologies.

"This is a great honor," said Rupf. "With the growth and advancements in today's technology, being a recognized LAN specialist is a tremendous opportunity."

To achieve designation as a RCDD/LAN specialist, telecommunications professionals must first become a registered communications distribution designer (RCDD) and have two years of document design, implementation and/or experience with LAN (local area network) systems. After these requirements have been met, individuals can register and test to be a RCDD/LAN specialist.

While 5600 telecommunications professionals have attained the RCDD designation, Rupf is one of only approximately 550 who have attained the RCDD/LAN specialty designation.

BICSI is an international not-for-profit professional telecommunications association, founded in 1974. Headquartered in Tampa, FL, it serves 20,000 members in more than 85 countries.