Unitech Training Academy ranked among top 10 online colleges in Louisiana
LAFAYETTE, La. – Unitech Training Academy has been named one of the top 10 online colleges in Louisiana by University Magazine.
The publication placed Unitech at No. 8 on its 2026 list of Best Online Colleges in Louisiana, which evaluates institutions on accreditation, value, flexibility, and support for students, including veterans.
Unitech was recognized for its career-focused programs, offered in online and hybrid formats, that provide students with practical experience and direct pathways into the workforce.
“For those wanting quick entry into a job, this academy offers flexibility and practical experience,” the ranking stated, describing Unitech as “a contender for affordable online colleges in Louisiana 2026 for technical and well-defined career paths.”
Unitech Training Academy offers programs in health care, skilled trades, and industrial training. Students can earn diplomas and certifications designed to help them enter or advance in high-demand fields.
In addition, Unitech Online offers three fully online programs including its new AI-Integrated Technical Support Specialist, Medical Office Assistant, and Medical Billing and Coding.
The full list of rankings is available at University Magazine.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy empowers students with career-focused education in healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. It operates six campuses across Louisiana and offers online programming in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Through hands-on training and industry-relevant curricula, graduates are prepared for success in today’s workforce.
Pharmacy Technician Instructor Somer Lewis Named Woman of Distinction by Girl Scouts for Community Impact
LAFAYETTE, LA – Somer Lewis, pharmacy technician instructor at Unitech Training Academy’s Lafayette campus, has been named a 2025 Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Louisiana – Pines to the Gulf.
Lewis is being recognized for her exceptional leadership, service, and community impact through her work with Magnolia Kids, a local organization she co-founded that supports children and families affected by trauma.
The Women of Distinction honor celebrates purpose-driven female leaders across the council’s 42-parish service area who exemplify excellence in service, leadership, and community visibility. Honorees are selected through a public nomination process and serve as role models for current and future generations of Girl Scouts.
“Somer cares deeply about her students and their success. In addition to inspiring students in her classroom, she lifts up families and young people through her service with Magnolia kids,” Noah Brandon, Unitech Training Academy President.
The Women of Distinction celebration is an annual charitable event benefiting the Girl Scout Leadership Program, which equips girls across Louisiana with the confidence, courage, and skills to become tomorrow’s leaders. The event highlights women who, like Girl Scouts, are dedicated to making a difference through compassion, professionalism, and perseverance.
Lewis joins an esteemed group of past honorees who have used their careers and platforms to create meaningful change in education, healthcare, business, and public service.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy is a proprietary school with campuses across Louisiana and a growing online division serving Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. With a mission to develop people—to serve, lead, and grow—Unitech offers career-focused programs in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades that prepare students to meet workforce needs across the Gulf South.
Unitech Training Academy Approved to Launch Fully Online AI-Integrated IT Program
Unitech Training Academy has received approval from the Louisiana Board of Regents to offer its newly revised AI-Integrated Information Technology program, expanding opportunities for students to gain in-demand technical skills while learning to responsibly apply artificial intelligence in support roles.
The 550-hour program, AI-Integrated Technical Support Specialist, is now open for enrollment and is delivered entirely online and designed to prepare students for entry-level IT positions and the CompTIA Tech+ certification. Over six months, students engage in interactive online labs, real-world troubleshooting simulations, and a capstone project that begins in the first week and culminates in a polished portfolio showcasing job-ready expertise.
The updated curriculum blends traditional IT foundations—hardware, software, networking, and security—with AI-driven workflows that accelerate diagnostics, automate repetitive tasks, and strengthen decision-making. Students also receive training in Microsoft 365 administration, cybersecurity, customer service, digital communication, and professional readiness, ensuring a well-rounded education in both technical and workplace skills.
“This approval represents a milestone for Unitech Online and the future of IT education,” said Jacob Landry, President of Unitech Online. “By integrating AI into every stage of the curriculum, we’re not only teaching students how to support technology but also how to use technology more intelligently and ethically to serve people. And by offering this program fully online, we’re making those skills accessible to students wherever they are.”
Noah Brandon, President of Unitech Training Academy, added: “When we began revising this program, we asked leaders in IT to contribute and tell us what the future of the field looks like. We listened carefully, and their feedback is now built into this curriculum. Unitech is committed to developing people and preparing graduates for roles that demand adaptability, problem-solving, and the confidence to apply AI responsibly in real-world environments.”
The Lafayette Regional Technology Council was one group that helped contribute to this program revamp. Formed earlier this year, the LRTC wants to strengthen and grow Lafayette’s technology ecosystem by supporting collaboration and growth within the local tech community through programming focused on talent development, connections & knowledge sharing, business growth, and advocacy.
“The Lafayette Regional Technology Council was proud to advise Unitech on how to best integrate AI training into its IT curriculum. Helping local educators stay ahead of emerging technologies ensures our regional talent remains competitive, while also strengthening the overall tech community we’re building here in Acadiana,” said Ben Johnson, LRTC Chairman.
The fully online AI-Integrated IT program will be offered through Unitech Online, making it accessible to students across Louisiana. The program is expected to start on Sept. 30.
For more information or to enroll, call (337) 564-5713 or visit unitechta.edu.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy is a proprietary career school with six campuses across Louisiana and online programs serving students in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. Dedicated to developing people and meeting workforce needs, Unitech offers career training programs in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades that prepare students for success in their chosen fields.
Unitech Training Academy Adding Electrical Program at West Monroe Campus
West Monroe, LA – Unitech Training Academy received approval to add an Electrical Program to its West Monroe campus, expanding access to career training opportunities in Northeast Louisiana. The state Board of Regents approved the addition last week. Unitech already offers the program at its Lafayette Campus.
“This approval allows us to extend a proven, high-quality training program to students in the West Monroe area,” said Shannon Warren, West Monroe Campus President. “It’s an important step in strengthening the region’s skilled workforce and helping individuals prepare for stable, in-demand careers.”
Unitech’s Electrical Program provides hands-on instruction in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. Students gain practical skills in wiring methods, safety protocols, and application of the National Electrical Code (NEC®). The program features:
- Modern lab environments designed to simulate real-world job sites
- Courses covering Electrical Safety, NEC®, Residential Wiring I & II, Commercial Wiring I & II, and Industrial Wiring
- Career services support to help graduates connect with employers
“The Electrical Program will give more people in West Monroe access to a solid career path and provide local employers with the skilled talent they need to grow,” said Noah Brandon, President of Unitech Training Academy.
With state approval in place, Unitech will prepare facilities and finalize start dates for the Electrical Program. Anyone interested in enrolling can call the campus at (318) 651-8003.
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About Unitech Training Academy – West Monroe Campus
Located at 111 Crosley Street, the West Monroe campus currently offers programs in EKG/Phlebotomy, Medical Assisting, Massage Therapy, Pharmacy Technology, and Surgical Technology. The addition of the Electrical Program reflects Unitech’s ongoing commitment to meeting workforce needs in the communities it serves.
Board of Regents Approves Surgical Technology Program for Unitech Training Academy’s Alexandria Campus
ALEXANDRIA, LA (August 18, 2025) – Unitech Training Academy received approval to offer a Surgical Technology program at its Alexandria campus. The approval by the state Board of Regents expands access to specialized healthcare training in central Louisiana and builds on the established success of the program currently offered at Unitech’s West Monroe campus.
“Bringing the Surgical Technology program to Alexandria allows us to meet the needs of both students and healthcare providers in this region,” said JoAnn Boudreaux, Campus President. “Our community will benefit from having more skilled graduates who are ready to step directly into high-demand surgical support roles.”
Unitech’s Surgical Technology program prepares students to play a vital role on the surgical team, assisting with procedures, ensuring sterile environments, and supporting patient safety in the operating room.
The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab simulations and a 200-hour externship, providing students with the training and experience necessary to begin careers in hospitals, outpatient centers, and surgical facilities.
“The community asked, and we listened. Our new Surgical Technology program in Alexandria is a direct response to the needs of Central Louisiana,” said Noah Brandon, President of Unitech Training Academy. “We see tremendous value in investing in this community and cultivating homegrown talent that will strengthen both the local workforce and the healthcare system.”
With state approval in place, Unitech will prepare facilities and finalize start dates for the Surgical Technology Program. Anyone interested in enrolling can call the campus at (318) 545-3187.
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About Unitech Training Academy – Alexandria Campus
Located at 2800 S. MacArthur Drive Suite C, the Alexandria campus currently offers programs in Dental Assisting, Early Childhood Ancillary Certificate, EKG/Phlebotomy Technician, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician. The addition of the Surgical Technology program reflects Unitech’s mission of developing people and its continued commitment to addressing the workforce needs of central Louisiana.
Unitech Training Academy Expands Electrical Program with New Evening Option in Lafayette
LAFAYETTE — Responding to strong demand from working adults and career changers, Unitech Training Academy’s Lafayette Campus is expanding access to its Electrical program with the addition of evening classes beginning July 28.
The evening schedule is designed to provide greater flexibility for students who work during the day or have other responsibilities that make traditional daytime classes difficult to attend. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the electrical field with hands-on training, industry-relevant instruction, and personalized career support.
“Our goal is to meet students where they are and help them build a better future,” said Heather Alleman, Interim Campus President. “Offering this program in the evening gives more people the opportunity to pursue a career in a high-demand field without having to put their lives on hold.”
Unitech is currently enrolling students for the next class start date on July 28. Six full scholarships – established by the Acadiana Veteran Alliance and The Boot – are available to Veterans in this program.
The Electrical program prepares students for entry-level positions in the growing electrical industry. Students learn how to install, maintain, and repair wiring systems, along with gaining a solid understanding of the National Electrical Code NEC® for residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
The program covers electrical safety, wiring methods, and industry practices—giving students the hands-on experience and confidence to step into the field as an electrical trainee.
For more information or to schedule a campus tour, visit www.unitechta.edu or call (337) 988-6042.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy empowers students with career-focused education in healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. It operates six campuses across Louisiana and offers online programming in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Through hands-on training and industry-relevant curricula, graduates are prepared for success in today’s workforce.
Jo Ann Boudreaux Named Campus President at Unitech Training Academy in Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, La. — Jo Ann Boudreaux has been named Campus President of Unitech Training Academy’s Alexandria campus, with her first day on campus scheduled for July 7, 2025.
Boudreaux brings 28 years of experience in career education, having held leadership positions including Director of Financial Aid, Campus President, Regional Vice President of Operations, and Senior Vice President of Operations at Remington Collee. She has consistently worked to advance student success, strengthen workforce pipelines, and build partnerships within the communities she serves.
“Jo Ann’s background in operations and student-centered leadership makes her well-equipped to lead the Alexandria campus,” said Krissy McCrea, Vice President of Campus Operations at Unitech Training Academy. “Her experience will help us continue to meet the workforce needs of Central Louisiana.”
Boudreaux holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and One Acadiana. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, Elmo, and their two daughters, Lindsey and Alexis.
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world for the better,” Boudreaux said, quoting Nelson Mandela. “I look forward to working alongside the Alexandria team to empower students and strengthen our impact in the community.”
Unitech Training Academy provides hands-on career training in healthcare, business, and skilled trades across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. The Alexandria campus is one of six locations in Louisiana.
For more information about Unitech Training Academy, visit www.unitechta.edu.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy empowers students with career-focused education in healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. It operates six campuses across Louisiana and offers online programming in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Through hands-on training and industry-relevant curricula, graduates are prepared for success in today’s workforce.
PARTNERSHIP PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIPS FOR VETERANS ENROLLING IN UNITECH TRAINING ACADEMY’S NEW ELECTRICAL PROGRAM IN LAFAYETTE
LAFAYETTE – A new partnership between Unitech Training Academy, Acadiana Veteran Alliance, and The Boot will provide scholarships for Veterans interested in working in the electrical field.
Six full scholarships are now available for Veterans enrolling in the Electrical program at Unitech Training Academy’s Lafayette campus.
“Initiatives like this are important for Acadiana Veterans because they employ the AVA mission of ‘hand up, not hand out,’” said Andrew Ward, AVA Founder and CEO. “The electrical trade is important and vital for our communities, and having Veterans step up and take the lead in these roles makes sense.”
Any Veteran in Louisiana can apply for the scholarship with Veterans from Acadiana strongly encouraged to apply. All applicants must show proof of service with a DD-214 form and must have a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma.
“At Unitech Training Academy, we are committed to providing meaningful career opportunities for those who have served our country. This partnership with the Acadiana Veteran Alliance allows us to give back to our Veterans by equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in a high-demand industry,” said Noah Brandon, Unitech Training Academy President. “The electrical trade is essential to our communities, and we are honored to support Veterans in taking the next step toward a stable and rewarding career.”
Unitech Training Academy launched its Electrical program in February at its Lafayette campus. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the electrical industry.
Students will perform installation tasks, services, and repairs, and will be taught by industry professionals. In addition, they will learn to inspect components such as transformers and circuit breakers and troubleshoot and repair electrical issues.
“We are excited to partner with innovators like AVA and Unitech Training Academy. The Boot’s mission is to retain, return, and recruit military talent in and to Louisiana, and this partnership creates a unique and strong training to career pipeline for our service members,” said Ben Armstrong, The Boot CEO. “We look forward to developing and strengthening more and more pathways for service members to thrive in Louisiana after service to our nation.”
Graduates of this enter the field as electrical trainees, ready to work with licensed contractors, electrical contracting companies, or union-based apprenticeship programs.
Students can complete the program in less than five months. This includes 280 hours of learning/lecture and 120 hours of hands-on learning in a shop setting.
To apply, contact Unitech Training Academy’s Lafayette Campus at (337) 988-6042.
About Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy empowers students with career-focused education in healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. It operates six campuses across Louisiana and offers online programming in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Through hands-on training and industry-relevant curricula, graduates are prepared for success in today’s workforce.
About Acadiana Veteran Alliance (AVA)
The Mission of the AVA is to unite veterans, veteran-owned businesses, and all companies for a common purpose; supporting veterans in job creation and work placement, assisting veterans in mental health solutions, and funding existing veteran-focused philanthropies through focused efforts. To learn more: https://www.supportava.org.
About The Boot
The Boot offers transitioning military servicemembers a range of services, including direct connections to Louisiana communities and employers, linkage to educational opportunities, benefits and healthcare resources, and post service integration programs. By partnering with local businesses and organizations, The Boot aims to create a robust network of support that will help military service members build successful and fulfilling lives in Louisiana after service. To learn more: https://theboot.la/
How Long Does it Take to Become a Medical Assistant?
If you enjoy working with people and have an interest in the medical or healthcare field, consider becoming a medical assistant. The healthcare sector in the United States continues to grow, and workers are needed at all levels to assist in patient care.
Our medical assistant training program at Unitech Training Academy provides an entry to a career that is fulfilling. One of the many exciting programs offered by Unitech Training Academy, the medical assistant program is offered at all six campus locations in Louisiana. Here, we discuss the timeline for completing our program.
Complete Our Medical Assistant Program in 9 Months
Organized in a convenient hybrid format that blends classroom instruction with online learning, the medical assistant program at Unitech Training Academy can be completed in as few as nine months. The program features some online learning, as well as traditional classroom instruction, hands-on lab experiences, and a practical externship. Successful students graduate with a diploma in a short time, after gaining knowledge and developing skills related to working as a medical assistant.
Healthcare contains many varied specialties and patient-care settings, so the role of the medical assistant can vary. However, with a strong foundation of concepts and skills, graduates of our program can perform many of the required tasks. These may include:
- Preparing examination rooms
- Sterilizing equipment
- Taking vital signs and recording patient histories
- Assisting in minor surgical procedures
- Taking part in laboratory operations, including urinalysis
- Helping patients during radiology procedures
- Administering electrocardiograms
- Performing administrative duties, including appointments and billing procedures
The program covers a variety of essential duties and core principles. These include the following:
- Introduction to Medical Assisting
- Anatomy and Pathophysiology
- Patient Education and Safety in the Medical Office
- Administrative Duties, Office and Administrative Duties for the Medical Assistant
- Clinical Medical Assisting Duties
- Pharmacology
- Electronic Health Records
- Capstone or research project
- Externship, working in the local community
Medical Assistant Program Details
The courses in the medical assisting program at Unitech Training Academy are substantial, and include aspects of hands-on patient care, as well as the administrative duties prevalent in healthcare. On the job, many medical assistants perform both types of tasks, but some specialize in one type. Within this basic specialization, there are numerous opportunities to focus on certain areas, such as:
- Medical specialty
- Type of disease
- Demographic demarcations, such as the age of the patient group
- Tasks performed (i.e., discovering a preference for laboratory duties over medical billing tasks)
Our program provides solid skills and experience that is well-rounded, so our graduates can work in several types of offices or other clinical settings and see what fits best for them.
Access Unitech Training Academy Resources
Unitech Training Academy offers many additional resources offered to students. Those who qualify can apply for financial aid to help with program costs. Our instructors are experienced in the classroom, as well as in the real world of healthcare and medical assisting. They offer students a well-balanced, practical approach to this career. There are also several other programs, both online and hybrid, which explore a variety of healthcare occupations, including:
Medical Billing and Coding
Insurance claims and medical billing and coding are crucial aspects of modern healthcare. This is how caregivers are paid, and how patients obtain the care they need. Careful medical coding is essential to accurate public health records, as well as individual health data. This can be a fascinating subject and requires dedicated study. Unitech Training Academy offers this program only online.
Medical Office Assistant
When students choose to pursue a career as a medical office assistant, they will find many similarities to the medical assistant role. However, office assistants usually do not engage in direct patient care, patient education, or hands-on procedures. Medical office tasks include ordering supplies, scheduling appointments, handling initial paperwork for medical billing, and other office-related tasks.
EKG/Phlebotomy Technician
The job of drawing blood is not for everyone, but for those who are attracted to this occupation, it is worthwhile and fulfilling. EKGs or electrocardiograms are another hands-on patient care specialty. In performing the role of the EKG or phlebotomy technician, there is interaction with many different patients. These roles require dexterity, scientific understanding, and empathy.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians are directed by licensed pharmacists, and the work is focused on providing medications to patients, as well as helping them understand their medications. It can be a rewarding role for someone who enjoys working with people and helping them.
Apply to the Medical Assistant Program at Unitech Training Academy
Don’t wait to begin your satisfying healthcare career as a medical assistant. Apply to the medical assistant program at Unitech Training Academy. Get started now.
Medical Billing and Coding: The Backbone of Healthcare Operations
Medical billing and coding professionals don’t always come to mind when most of us think of healthcare, but these white-collar workers play a vital role. Their job is to maintain an important level of accuracy in medical records. They are also responsible for processing medical billing to health insurance companies. Through these efforts, medical practices and organizations get paid, and patients can get the treatments and procedures they need.
At Unitech Training Academy, our Medical Billing and Coding program is available online for students in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama who wish to pursue a career that is key to modern healthcare. Here, we discuss the important role of medical billers and coders.
What Is Medical Coding?
There are standardized medical codes used around the world that designate specific medical diagnoses, examinations, procedures, treatments, and other elements of healthcare. There are several different types of codes, and they specify body parts and systems, as well as diseases and traumatic injuries. The two most commonly known coding systems are ICD, or the International Classification of Diseases, and CPT, or Current Procedural Terminology. Medical billers and coders are experts in these codes, and assure consistency throughout medical records and bills sent to insurance companies.
The process of medical coding enables patient records to reflect information useful for billing health insurance companies. Because the health information contained in these medical codes is finely detailed, it also offers an opportunity to collect data for research and to track medical outcomes related to procedures and conditions. However, medical and health information is confidential and must be treated carefully and ethically. That’s why medical billers and coders receive specialized training that includes privacy compliance protocols and other aspects of healthcare administration.
Vital Roles for Medical Coding and Billing Specialists
At Unitech Training Academy, students in the online Medical Billing and Coding program can develop a wide variety of knowledge and skills related to the medical field. This type of job training is designed to help graduates fit into different types of health and medical workplaces, and adapt to existing procedures. It also prepares them to eventually become ethical leaders at work and in their profession.
There are three main areas in healthcare where medical coding can play an important role.
Healthcare Administration
Managing revenue cycles keeps healthcare practices and institutions operating. A steady stream of payments for services rendered is at the core of any business. When it comes to the business of healthcare, health insurance companies are a major source of income for practitioners and organizations. Through medical coding, the process of submitting bills for medical services is streamlined, so patients can keep receiving life-saving medical treatments and practitioners can earn a living.
Health Data Management
Because patient records are coded and organized digitally, it is possible to use the data for several purposes. Each healthcare workplace uses this data to examine cash flow, expenditures, and patient outcomes. On a larger scale, research institutions and government organizations use data that has been stripped of any individual patient identifiers to measure health trends, evaluate new techniques or treatments, and make predictions about healthcare costs at a national level.
Patient Privacy
Medical coding and billing professionals adhere to a strict code of conduct that protects the privacy of individual patients. Their work involves close contact with EHR files, and their knowledge of the laws and regulations governing their use places them in an excellent position to ensure that the whole organization is compliant with health confidentiality statutes.
Become a Key Player on the Healthcare Team
If you have been considering a career change, or are starting in the working world, it may be time to apply for admission to the online medical billing and coding program at Unitech Training Academy. We welcome students who are interested in medicine and health, and who are detail-oriented. To work in medical biller and coder roles, students must use computers and data sheets, and have an orientation toward helping others. After successfully completing the program, our students are eligible to take a certification examination with the National Center for Competency Testing for insurance and coding specialist certification.
Earn a Diploma in Medical Billing and Coding at Unitech Training Academy
Our online Medical Billing and Coding program can be completed in as few as nine months. It is offered fully online and is available to students in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Eligible students may receive financial aid in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Find out how you can get started now.