Wrightco Technologies recently announced, in partnership with Verizon and HACC, the start of their hands-on, technical training institute in fiber optics and communications training. The program named the Academy of Communications Technologies, is located inside HACC's Community Center for Technology and the Arts, 4th Street in Harrisburg. The partnership was developed in response to the rapidly expanding and evolving field of communications technology. Traditional students, as well as underemployed, unemployed, dislocated workers, and economically disadvantaged students are welcome to take advantage of the program.

Students enrolled in the Academy of Communications Technologies will study specific modules including fiber optics, telecommunications, data communications, digital telecommunications, security alarm systems, closed circuit television, and advanced data cabling. Testing is available for students to complete their international certification for industry installers and technicians. Federal grant funds are also available for eligible high school and adult residents in the mid-state who want to attend the program.

Wrightco Technologies is a nationally recognized educational leader in fiber optics, telecommunications, data communications, voice data and video applications, computer operator and electronic security alarms.

"Our technical training programs are 60% hands-on training," says Brent Wright, owner and CEO of Wrightco Technologies. "By the end of the program, students come away with a knowledge base that allows them to be immediately successful on the job in the communications, or electronic security alarm industries, earning competitive wages."

When HACC's Community Center opened last year, it was the beginning of a new partnership among the college, the community and regional business associates. Wrightco's Academy of Communications Technologies, working with Verizon and HACC, is one such example of business and education working together to meet workforce needs.

"Enrollment has grown in our technical programs here at the Community Center for Technology and Arts," says Dr. Baehre, HACC president. "Our active partnerships here, like the one with Wrightco and Verizon, augment the programs HACC provides, offering students even more career opportunities and choices, while expanding the pool of qualified workers in our region."

The 26-week session of the Academy of Communications Technologies program will begin Monday, June 17. For more information contact Wrightco Technologies at 1-800-372-5211, or HACC's Community Center for Technology and Arts at (717) 233-4777.