The SCTE Foundation recently announced a comprehensive relaunch, including new branding that was on display at the Georgia World Congress Center during TechExpo24. In the current era of rapid technological advancements and increased global connectivity, the SCTE Foundation’s relaunch is aimed at further engaging, supporting, and expanding a skilled workforce to shape a more inclusive future, prepared to revolutionise the global broadband and connectivity industry.
The SCTE Foundation’s new chapter is characterised by an expanded mission, a restructured board, a new logo illustrative of the Foundation’s story, the establishment of new committees, and the unveiling of a user-friendly and engaging website. Among its initiatives, the Foundation uses contributions to provide scholarships and grants to professionals who otherwise wouldn’t have access to essential training. The funding supports online courses and pathways to certification, empowering aspiring talent and elevating careers to advance the industry.
“The Foundation’s new brand is focused on the initiatives and actions embracing our innovative industry and supporting the growth and development of our next era,” said Mark Dzuban, President and Chairman of the SCTE Foundation.
The organisation’s updated mission reads:
The SCTE Foundation is dedicated to fostering talent and innovation for the global broadband connectivity industry. Through the provision of grants, scholarships, resources, and programmes, we empower aspiring professionals and companies with the skills and tools necessary to succeed in our dynamic field.
Established nearly 20 years ago by the SCTE Board of Directors, the SCTE Foundation has rebranded from the firm ground of the organisation’s charitable legacy and expanded its grant and scholarship programmes to benefit individuals and companies, including vendors and industry innovators. Supporting its strategic shift aimed at driving innovation and supporting new workforce training, the Foundation has already expanded operations to include the hiring of the organisation’s first operations manager, and is introducing three key initiatives to further support the industry.
New Ideas Committee
Introduced this summer following record-setting fundraising at the annual Tom Polis Classic Golf Tournament, the Foundation’s New Ideas Committee is a dynamic team dedicated to evaluating innovative proposals that will drive future investments focused on talent training, technological advancements, and process improvements. Anyone with a well-developed idea, a clear budget, and a structured implementation plan is eligible to apply for funding.
Broadband Labor Academy
The inaugural offering introduced by the Foundation’s new Broadband Labor Academy is a pilot programme specifically designed for aspiring fibre splicing technicians. The programme offers essential training and retraining for individuals who lack the resources to pursue this career path on their own or through a company. With identified job opportunities for successful graduates, this programme is designed to provide a gateway to a rewarding fibre optics career. Students can experience hands-on training complemented by SCTE coursework and mentorship from industry experts.
Diversity TechConnect
The Foundation also hopes to empower the next generation of tech leaders through the Diversity TechConnect Initiative. This innovative programme pairs experienced professionals with rising stars from diverse backgrounds, creating invaluable mentoring relationships that foster growth and resilience in the tech industry.
The Diversity TechConnect Initiative began with a focus on women in tech, established in partnership with The WICT Network as The Women’s TechConnect. This groundbreaking programme fosters mentorship and support for underrepresented groups within the industry. While the current programme centres on empowering women by pairing seasoned professionals with emerging talent, the SCTE Foundation is exploring expansion with other diverse industry groups.
Tech Trek Walkathon Debuts at TechExpo24
Members of the industry are invited to join the inaugural SCTE Foundation Tech Trek Walkathon at SCTE TechExpo. Participants can walk at their own pace throughout the event, engage with fellow supporters, and explore the vibrant trade show floor while making a meaningful impact and supporting the Foundation’s mission to drive talent and innovation in broadband technology. With a minimum donation of $100, walkers who visit the booth can receive a T-shirt sporting the new logo and show their support as part of the launch of a new era for the SCTE Foundation.
Interested individuals and companies can get involved at https://sctefoundation.org or visit the SCTE Foundation (booth #1) located at the top of the escalator, outside the entrance to Exhibit Hall B at Georgia World Congress Center, September 24-26, 2024. The Foundation thanks all those who wish to connect at TechExpo to support and collaborate to create meaningful progress. With industry support, the Foundation works to empower the workforce needed today and tomorrow, and help people and companies bring forth new and unforeseen innovations that will propel the industry forward.