Advancing Digital Skills - PA State Plan and Recommendations - August 2022

<B> Use the Download button to find the complete Plan. </B> Recommendations for advancing the digital skills of adult workers in Pennsylvania, provided by the 2021-22 Workforce Innovation Network Pennsylvania team. This planning is made possible through a grant from the National Governors Association. With continued technology advancements and shifts to remote work and digital engagement, addressing the digital divide is key to ensuring equitable economic participation for all Pennsylvanians. Lack of technology access has been a long-known barrier to education and employment opportunities, but the limitation of in-person activities and shift to remote interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic shed light on how large, and how critical, the digital access and opportunity gap is. When people lack access to technology, it denies them the opportunity to participate in essential life activities, including: • Education access across the K-12 and postsecondary sectors; • Entry to employment, including finding a job and using online application platforms, as well as basic technology skills qualifications; • Opportunities to work remotely; • Access to telemedicine for both physical and behavioral health needs; • Participation in civic life and access to government services; • The ability to stay connected with family and friends.