On Wednesday, Governor Laura Kelly announced a $2.3 million investment in workforce readiness and digital skills training programs that will benefit almost 50,000 Kansans.
The Kansas Office of Broadband Development is collaborating with 13 groups through the Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) program to make sure citizens can take full advantage of the benefits that high-speed internet availability throughout the state has to offer.
“Community organizations across Kansas will use this funding to create immediate opportunities for those aiming to increase digital skills and knowledge,” Governor Laura Kelly stated. “The DOCK program reinforces my administration’s commitment to empowering Kansans and meeting the evolving needs of today’s workforce.”
The DOCK program increases workforce upskilling opportunities and access to essential digital technologies.
- To address the region’s known need for digital opportunity and increase access to essential digital education, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas will launch a pilot program in digital literacy.
- Small businesses will receive cybersecurity and digital skills training from Tree Top Security in northwest Kansas, enabling them to safeguard data, stop cyberattacks, and improve operations with the use of cutting-edge digital tools.
- Through its “Digital Skills Launching Pad,” Eagle Nest will provide digital literacy training to women in Cowley County who have been involved in the criminal system, have experienced domestic abuse, or are enduring generational poverty. Skills including internet navigation, work readiness, and online safety will be the main focus of the training.
- To prepare kids for a digital environment, the Liberal Area Coalition for Families in southwest Kansas will teach parents about internet safety. In order to improve family communication and parental involvement in their children’s education, parents will acquire essential skills for keeping an eye on their online activities and ensuring safe internet use.
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“In today’s economy, workforce development starts with access to digital tools and training,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland stated. “Investing in workforce readiness means ensuring that people have the training to use technology effectively — whether they’re applying for jobs, launching businesses, or advancing their careers.”
Universities, towns, non-profits, and others submitted applications to the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD). All Kansas counties will be impacted by the awards, which will increase the state’s job readiness and digital opportunities.
