When Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont and the CDE partnered to launch ConnectTech, the goal was simple: make digital skills training accessible, practical, and empowering for people preparing for their next step.
In today’s world, digital skills aren’t optional. Applying for jobs, communicating with employers, accessing services, and managing everyday tasks all require comfort with technology. ConnectTech was designed to meet learners where they are—and give them the tools and support to move forward with confidence.
Learning That Fits Real Life
ConnectTech is a short-term, hands-on digital skills program built around practice, consistency, and support. Over several weeks, participants come together in a welcoming learning environment where they can build foundational digital skills at their own pace.
Classes are offered in English and Spanish with instruction grounded in the Northstar Digital Literacy curriculum. Sessions focus on practical skills learners can immediately apply—using email, navigating online forms, building comfort with devices, and staying safe online.
For many participants, this structure makes all the difference.
Rather than feeling overwhelmed or left behind, learners are encouraged to show up, practice, ask questions, and build confidence step-by-step.
Support Beyond the Classroom
A key element of ConnectTech is the support woven throughout the program. CDE Digital Navigators and partner facilitators provide guidance, encouragement, and one-on-one help when learners need it most.
This support helps participants stay engaged, work through challenges, and celebrate progress—whether that’s mastering a new skill, completing an assessment, or feeling more comfortable navigating the digital world.
Through programs like ConnectTech, participants can earn a laptop, reinforcing what they’ve learned and allowing them to continue practicing beyond the classroom.
Building Confidence—and Momentum
The impact of ConnectTech goes beyond technical skills. Participants leave with increased confidence, recognized credentials, and a stronger sense of readiness for what comes next—whether that’s applying for jobs, continuing their education, or managing daily tasks online.
By combining trusted community partners, practical instruction, and people-centered support, ConnectTech creates a learning experience that feels achievable and relevant.
Powered by Partnership
ConnectTech reflects what’s possible when organizations align around a shared commitment to digital opportunity. Through collaboration with Goodwill, CDE helps expand access to digital skills training that is rooted in community, responsive to learners’ needs, and focused on real-world outcomes.
Together, these partners are helping open doors—one skill, one class, and one learner at a time.
