Never too late to learn: Arlington resident gains confidence with digital skills
Arlington, Va. (March 12, 2025) - Many people today have no problem navigating digital technology to communicate with loved ones, work from home, purchase things they need, and much more. But nowadays, that same technology is changing rapidly, and if you do not keep up with the times, you could be left behind.
Anita P., a resident of Arlington, Va., wanted to learn new digital skills to help her use online devices to the best of her abilities. That’s why she decided to take Connected Nation (CN) Digital Skills Training classes. Earlier this year, Anita found out the Arlington Mill Community Center was hosting these classes through its Director, Carrie Conline,and decided to sign up.
“I know that there were other computer classes here, but every time when I wanted to enroll for them, you had to have a certain income, otherwise you didn't qualify,” said Anita. “This kind of basic training should be for everyone.”
To advance digital literacy across America, CN has teamed up with AT&T’s Connected Learning Program to offer in-person and virtual digital skills training workshops for the digital empowerment of residents like Anita. The training workshops are free for all participants.
Anita attended classes on computer basics and mobile device basics, but these are just two of the many topics the training covers. She was one of 67 total trained at the community center on February 18.
“The part I liked the best was that it was taught at a very simple and easy to understand pace,” said Anita. “Everyone's questions were welcome, and there were no silly or unsmart questions.”
Anita added that she felt like she got on the “technology train” a little too late. But these classes are meant for anyone who is interested in adopting and using technology more effectively, regardless of their phase of life or how new they are to technology. It’s never too late to learn.
“It is more than just the small things in technology that I already know how to do like listening to my audiobooks and doing my online banking, I need to be able to know everything,” said Anita. “So yes, having knowledge about current technology is very important.”
Anita is among 6,260 participants that have completed the program since it was launched just a few years ago. She is a great example of putting your best foot forward and choosing to take control of your future.
If you’re interested in bringing these impactful classes to your own community, visit Connected Nation’s Digital Skills Training page to learn more and get started.