Connecting Kansas: Local organizations partner to get 200 laptops and free skills training to urban and rural residents
Wichita, Kan. (February 5, 2026) – Connected Nation (CN), AT&T, the city of Wichita, Build &Rebuild, Empower, Kansas Hispanic Education & Development Foundation, (KHEDF) and Thrive Allen County announced today that they are collaborating to provide 200 laptops and critical digital skills to both rural and urban Kansas residents, including in Allen County and throughout the Wichita area.
The devices are being provided thanks to a contribution from AT&T’s Tech 4 Training program, with Compudot managing refurbishment and preparation of the laptops to ensure participants receive reliable, high-quality devices.
“I’m encouraged to see so many local organizations partnering with AT&T and Connected Nation to expand access to technology and digital skills for people in and around Wichita,” said Mayor Lily Wu, City of Wichita. “By pairing laptops with hands-on training, this partnership helps residents improve skills, prepare for jobs, and connect to education and opportunity. Collaborations like this strengthen our local workforce and ensure Wichita continues to thrive.”
This collaboration is designed to reach those from all walks of life, including families, job seekers, students, and adults working to build new skills. By pairing devices with hands-on training and trusted Wichita-area partners, the initiative helps Kansans confidently use technology for work, education, and daily life.
The event underscores a shared commitment to ensuring people in both rural and urban Kansas have the tools, skills, and support they need to learn, work, and stay connected in today’s digital world.
“At AT&T, we believe opportunity grows when people have both connectivity and the ability to use technology confidently,” said Mylayna Albright, VP, Corporate Responsibility, AT&T. “We are proud to support local organizations and residents across Kansas through computer donations and digital skills training that open doors to education, jobs, health care, and vital services.”
Training and computer distribution will take place as part of an ongoing digital inclusion initiative led by Wichita-area facilities and CN, which will include workshops on internet basics, email basics, and internet safety (cybersecurity) provided by AT&T.
Additionally, the training and computer distributions will take place in Allen County under the leadership of Thrive Allen County. This work builds on the organizations’ longstanding partnership that’s focused on digital skills training, broadband access, and community technology planning.
"Devices plus training equal meaningful digital opportunity," said Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO, CN. "We are grateful to AT&T and to all of the organizations taking part in this effort for collaborating with us to empower residents with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed."
Learn more about bringing CN’s free digital skills training programs to your area at connectednation.org. #ConnectingKS #Tech4Training
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About Connected Nation: Marking its 25th anniversary in 2026, the national nonprofit’s mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. A Connected Nation Internet Exchange Point (CNIXP) is being built in Wichita. It’s located next to WSU Tech’s Innovation Campus and is the first among a targeted 125 locations across the country. To learn more about this project, head to ixp.us. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation. Learn more at connectednation.org.
About Philanthropy at AT&T: At AT&T, our corporate responsibility work is dedicated to bridging the Digital Divide across the country. We are committed to providing people of all ages and from every community with the essential resources they need to thrive in the digital era. For generations, we have supported programs that impact millions of individuals nationwide, and since 2021, we have committed $5 billion to initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and improve access to high-speed internet. Our efforts particularly focus on uplifting communities, including students, older adults, and un- or underemployed individuals, ensuring everyone can participate in the digital world and benefit from its opportunities.
About Build & Rebuild Educational Ministries and Math Academy: The mission of Build and Rebuild is to create clear pathways for our community to access better resources and lasting solutions to the obstacles they face in life. We serve as a central hub dedicated to connecting people with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to succeed. https://www.buildandrebuild.org/
About Empower: The organization revitalizes Wichita's North End and Latino populations with opportunities, resources, and support to achieve dreams and transform futures by supporting businesses, fostering pride, and inspiring growth for future generations. https://empowernorthend.org/
About Kansas Hispanic Education & Development Foundation (KHEDF): The KHEDF empowers Hispanic students across Wichita and Kansas to turn college dreams into degrees by providing scholarships, mentorship, and career readiness support, with a focus on first-generation and low-income students. https://khedf.org/
About Thrive Allen County: The organization is dedicated to improving rural quality of life through health, wellness, and economic development. As a leading rural health advocate, it focuses on increasing access to health care, promoting active lifestyles, supporting community conversations, and fostering improvements in education and public infrastructure. https://thriveallencounty.org/