Tech4Wellness Digital Equity & Literacy ReEntry Program
Donation protected
Current Status:
Funding: Partially funded ($10,000 of $30,000)
Enrollment: 6/20 individuals
Goal:
The Tech4Wellness ReEntry Program aims to prepare 20 individuals for work in a digital workspace by equipping them with necessary digital skills and the CompTIA A+ Certification, enabling them to join North Carolina’s expanding tech workforce.
Rationale:
North Carolina’s concerted efforts to close the digital divide have created a burgeoning demand for network technicians and IT professionals. Our program directly supports the state's initiative by preparing formerly incarcerated individuals to participate in and benefit from this economic and technical growth.
Program Overview:
Stage 1: Assess individual digital literacy and tailor learning plans. Outcomes include mastering basic computer operations, using fintech solutions, operating modern smartphones, and ensuring data security. This stage parallels a college-level "Introduction to Computers" course.
Stage 2: Introduction to networking and security fundamentals, preparing participants for CompTIA A+ certification training.
Stage 3: Focused CompTIA A+ exam preparation, including practice tests and sessions with leading instructors in the field. Successful completion leads to CompTIA A+ certification.
Post-Completion Support:
- Graduates will receive ongoing support from a success coach to aid in job placement and further education, ensuring continued personal and professional development.
Expansion and Partnership Goals:
- Extend the program across all North Carolina counties in collaboration with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).
- Formulate partnerships with North Carolina Community Colleges to translate program completion into credit towards an Associate’s degree in IT.
- Initiate program phases for incarcerated individuals prior to release to improve reentry outcomes.
Eligibility:
- Recent releases from incarceration, with priority given to those who have spent more time incarcerated.
- Must be a resident of North Carolina.
- Participants must have a stable residential address (Note: Currently unable to accommodate individuals without permanent housing).
Program Benefits:
- Each participant will receive a laptop and high-speed internet access at their residence for the duration of the program.
- All study materials, including peripherals needed for the course, will be provided at no cost.
Timeline:
- Complete the program within 6 months, dedicating 10 hours per week.
- Depending on initial assessments, the program duration may be reduced to three months for individuals with prior knowledge.
Context and Alignment with State Initiatives:
1. Addressing Skill Gaps and Meeting Employer Demand
North Carolina's efforts to expand broadband and digital services are creating numerous job opportunities in IT and network management. By training participants to achieve CompTIA A+ certification, the Tech4Wellness program directly prepares them for entry-level IT roles that are in high demand. This certification is recognized across the IT industry and validates the holder's ability to troubleshoot, problem-solve, and understand a wide range of issues ranging from networking and operating systems to mobile devices and security (NC Broadband Gov ) (BroadbandUSA ).
2. Enhancing Digital Literacy
The state has emphasized the importance of digital literacy as a critical skill for participating in the modern economy. The Tech4Wellness program contributes to this goal by ensuring that participants not only learn to use technology but also gain skills in securing data, using modern software, and understanding the internet landscape. These competencies are essential for both personal and professional success in a digitalized world (NC Broadband Gov ) (NC Gov ).
3. Supporting State and Federal Initiatives
The program aligns with both state and federal initiatives, such as the Digital Equity Plan and the Broadband Expansion Plans, which seek to improve digital access and create jobs. By preparing individuals who are re-entering society to take on roles that support these initiatives, the program helps build a workforce that can contribute to and benefit from these government projects. This is particularly important as the state leverages federal funding to expand digital infrastructure and services (NC Broadband Gov ) (NC Broadband Gov ) (BroadbandUSA ).
4. Reducing Recidivism through Employment
Employment is known to significantly reduce the likelihood of recidivism. By providing formerly incarcerated individuals with marketable skills and certifications, the Tech4Wellness program enhances their employment prospects. This not only helps in their personal reintegration into society but also adds to the local economy by increasing the number of skilled workers available (National Governors Association) (NC Broadband Gov ).
5. Creating Long-Term Career Pathways
The program's partnership with community colleges and its potential integration into the credit system of these institutions can create seamless pathways for participants to further their education and careers. This strategy not only helps in immediate job placement but also in long-term career development, ensuring that participants can continue to advance and remain competitive in the workforce (StateTech Magazine ) (National Governors Association ).
6. Boosting Local Economies
By equipping participants with skills that are in high demand, the program helps meet local employers' needs, thereby supporting local businesses and the broader economy. Skilled workers can contribute to the growth and success of local industries, particularly in rural and underserved areas where the digital divide is more pronounced (NC Gov Cooper ) (National Governors Association ).
Overall, the Tech4Wellness Digital Equity & Literacy ReEntry Program not only supports participants' reintegration into the workforce but also aligns with broader state goals to enhance digital inclusion and economic growth. This program serves as a model for how targeted training initiatives can effectively meet specific state and local workforce needs while supporting larger social and economic objectives.
Organizer
Tech4 Wellness
Organizer
Garner, NC