Powering Tech Talent Through SCTE

A New Year of Mentoring, Momentum, and Investing in People

As we begin a new year, the SCTE Foundation is doubling down on what matters most: investing in people. The broadband industry is evolving at an extraordinary pace, and the need for strong technical talent, clear pathways into the field, and meaningful leadership development has never been greater. For us, the answer is simple. We invest in the individuals who will imagine, build, maintain, and transform the networks our world relies on.

This is why we are proud to kick off 2026 with the launch of our NextGen Mentoring Program, a pilot designed specifically for rising technical professionals who want guidance, connection, and clarity as they navigate their career path. This new initiative reflects one of the SCTE Foundation’s core beliefs: mentorship doesn’t just shape careers, it strengthens our industry and expands the possibilities ahead for all of us.

The NextGen Mentoring Program builds on a legacy of successful mentoring partnerships, including our long-standing TechConnect Mentoring Program in partnership with The WICT Network. TechConnect has supported more than a decade of mentees and mentors, and continues to demonstrate the extraordinary impact that structured guidance, community, and shared learning can have on a person’s confidence, capability, and trajectory. With NextGen, we are taking this commitment even further by creating an early- to mid-career pathway focused on technical skills, leadership development, and long-term industry retention.

A foundation built on people

The SCTE Foundation’s work begins with a simple truth: programs don’t change lives—people do, with the right support. That support comes in many forms, and mentorship is one of the most powerful. But our investment in people extends well beyond mentoring.

Through the generosity of donors and the engagement of our board and industry partners, the SCTE Foundation continues to support individuals at every career stage through:

• Scholarship and grant programs that make technical training, leadership development, certifications, and specialized learning more accessible.
• Professional development resources that help individuals upskill, reskill, or advance into new roles.
• Support for SCTE Chapters, which serve as vital local hubs for learning, networking, and community engagement across the industry.

By strengthening these pathways, we meet people where they are and help them get where they want to go.

Carrying forward the momentum

As seen during our recent year-end efforts, including Giving Tuesday, our community continues to show up in strong and inspiring ways. Donor contributions directly fuel the programs that empower individuals: from early-career technicians to future leaders, from those entering the industry to those rebuilding after unexpected hardship. Every investment, large or small, expands access to opportunity.

Together, we continue to reinforce our shared message: Careers in Motion. Skills That Build. Powering Tech Talent Through SCTE. This message clarifies the connection between SCTE and the SCTE Foundation and underscores our united commitment to preparing the industry’s technical workforce today and for the future.

Looking ahead to 2026

The year ahead is filled with promise. With the launch of the NextGen Mentoring Program, we are opening new doors for emerging talent and expanding the culture of mentorship that has long strengthened our industry. At the same time, we remain deeply committed to ensuring that scholarships, grants, and SCTE Chapter support continue to reach those who need them most.

Strong networks begin with strong people. As Chair of the SCTE Foundation, I am grateful for the donors, mentors, partners, and volunteers who make this work possible. The broadband landscape is changing, and together, we are preparing the people who will shape its future.

Here’s to a year of progress, partnership, and possibility. Let’s continue investing in the individuals who move this industry forward..

Ken Klaer

Chair and President, SCTE Foundation

Ken Klaer is the Chair and President of the SCTE Foundation and former President of Comcast Technology Solutions. With decades of experience leading innovation across engineering, video platforms, and network architecture, he is passionate about building strong teams and stronger futures. Now, through the SCTE Foundation, he’s focused on expanding access to technical education, workforce training, and mentorship, ensuring the broadband industry continues to thrive by investing in its greatest asset: its people..

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