A Chattanooga program that teaches technology and digital skills in an effort to link participants with high-paying jobs has received $900,000 from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
The funding is part of the state’s $101.6 million allocation for broadband access and digital opportunities. Coupled with other funding, the award will help Tech Goes Home provide 8,000 people across Southeast Tennessee with training over the next two years.
The Enterprise Center, a nonprofit economic development partner to the city, county, region and state, operates the program. It serves residents of Hamilton, Bradley, Polk, McMinn, Marion, Sequatchie, Bledsoe, Rhea, Meigs and Grundy counties.
“Through Tech Goes Home, we’re investing in classes that deliver digital literacy skills to improve learners’ quality of life and open doors to new opportunities,” Sammy Lowdermilk, program director of Tech Goes Home Tennessee, said in a news release. “By collaborating with other supporting partners and agencies, the Enterprise Center and Tech Goes Home are reaching people, especially seniors and persons with disabilities, who would otherwise be cast to the economic and social sidelines in our increasingly digital world.”
An estimated 92% of jobs require digital literacy, and workers who qualify for jobs that require even one digital skill can earn on average 23% more than in jobs that don’t, according to 2023 report by the National Skills Coalition and the Federal Reserve Bank.
“This award is a testament to the proven track record of the Enterprise Center and speaks to our commitment to closing the digital divide through tech education programs and vital partnerships,” Monique Kuykendoll Quarterman, president and CEO of the Enterprise Center, said in a news release. “Tech Goes Home classes provide crucial support for digital literacy training and workforce development initiatives to support workers in expanding their career paths.”
— Compiled by David Floyd
