press release
Tampa, Florida —April 24, 2026 — Learning Alliance Corporation (LAC) announces a strategic partnership with UCL Swift North America for 2026, strengthening industry collaboration focused on fiber and broadband workforce development. The partnership aligns training programs with the tools, technologies, and real-world practices used in modern network deployment, helping prepare technicians for the growing demands of broadband infrastructure across the United States.
As fiber expansion accelerates nationwide, the demand for trained technicians continues to rise. Industry analysts estimate that between 58,000 and 200,000 additional skilled workers will be needed to support upcoming fiber infrastructure projects. By bringing industry-grade equipment directly into training environments, this partnership ensures students gain hands-on experience with the tools they will encounter in the field.
Steve Harris, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at UCL Swift North America, emphasized the importance of industry involvement in workforce preparation. “At UCL Swift, we look for partners who are directly connected to workforce outcomes, not just training delivery. LAC has built programs that consistently produce technicians ready for real deployment environments. This partnership allows us to place our tools in the hands of learners who will be using them in the field from day one.”
Through the partnership, UCL Swift North America will provide fusion splicers, cleavers, and specialized fiber-optic tools for broadband and network construction. These tools will be incorporated into LAC training programs that support fiber technicians, broadband installers, and line workers. The collaboration also includes instructor support, technical training, advisory participation, and engagement with students and employers across the industry.
Fred Arnold, Executive Director at LAC, noted that the partnership reflects a broader effort to align workforce education with industry needs. “This partnership strengthens how we deliver training at every level. By integrating UCL Swift equipment and expertise into our programs, we give students direct experience with the tools and standards used in today’s fiber builds. That level of alignment accelerates readiness and improves outcomes for both technicians and employers.”
The partnership will introduce joint initiatives throughout 2026, including co- branded training programs, curriculum collaboration, industry advisory participation, and events designed to connect employers with trained technicians. Future initiatives may also include micro- credentials, educational media content, and expanded classroom engagement opportunities.
About Learning Alliance Corporation
Learning Alliance Corporation partners with businesses, colleges, and universities to bring U.S. Veterans and civilians stronger training initiatives that equate to solid career growth. By partnering with employers nationwide, Learning Alliance Corporation has created workshops, labs, and simulation programs that align the theoretical concepts with real-world application learning. This adaptable approach creates learning solutions based on community-specific goals, industry, staff skill level, and corporate culture. Learning Alliance Corporation provides quality instructors who are highly trained and specialize in the areas they teach. Learn more at https://www.mylearningalliance.com or contact Lymaris Pabellon at lpabellon@mylearningalliance.com
About UCL Swift North America
UCL Swift North America is a leading provider of fiber-optic splicing and connectivity solutions serving broadband, enterprise, and data center markets across North America. As the U.S. division of UCL Swift, the company designs and manufactures high-precision fiber tools, including fusion splicers, cleavers, and fiber preparation equipment used in modern network deployment. Known for its innovative All-In-One fusion splicing technology, UCL Swift helps technicians streamline installation while improving reliability and performance in fiber infrastructure projects. Through ongoing product innovation and industry collaboration, UCL Swift North America supports the expansion of high-speed broadband networks and the advancement of the global telecommunications industry. Learn more at https://uclswiftna.com/about/.