Longview partnership delivers digital skills training and 40 free laptops to local residents

Longview, TX. (January 15, 2026) –  Connected Nation (CN), Greater Longview United Way, the Longview Public Library, AT&T, and Compudot worked together to successfully host a community digital skills training event held at the library January 7 and 8. The organizations provided residents with essential technology training and distributed 40 free laptop devices to participating individuals.

A total of 23 residents attended the six workshops, which included Computer Basics, Internet Basics, and Cybersecurity sessions. Participants learned how to use computers confidently, navigate the internet safely, and access vital online services for education, employment, health care, and daily life. Additional workshops will be scheduled soon to deliver the remaining devices.

“Sometimes I go to coffee shops with my laptop to work on school assignments. I use their open Wi-Fi, but I didn’t even think about how that can be dangerous to do because anyone can use that Wi-Fi. We learned about VPNs today, and I think that is something I need to look into,” said one participant, who asked not to be named.

CAPTION: Kiersten Rucker (far left) is the Digital Inclusion Specialist for Connected Nation. She led a digital skills workshop and gave out laptops that were provided by AT&T to participants (pictured). 

“Seeing community members walk out with new skills and a device they can use at home is exactly why we do this work,” said Heather Gate, Executive Vice President of Digital Inclusion, CN. “We are grateful to AT&T, Compudot, Greater Longview United Way, and the Longview Public Library for helping expand opportunity for Longview families.”

The laptops were provided through AT&T’s Tech 4 Training initiative with Compudot serving as the device distribution partner — supporting logistics and ensuring high-quality refurbished devices reached eligible participants.

“We are proud to support the Longview community as residents build the digital skills needed for work, school, and daily life,” said Mylayna Albright, VP, Corporate Responsibility, AT&T. “Pairing training with a device people can take home ensures this impact lasts well beyond a single workshop.”

 "Our library was honored to host Kiersten as the facilitator for the Connected Nation Digital Skills and Cybersecurity training,” said Jennifer Eldridge, Longview Public Library. “All of the participants were engaged, and Kiersten was most patient with each of them. When all the participants received their laptops at the end of the class, it was like Christmas morning. You could tell so many of the participants were struggling with technology or having access to reliable technology. It was very rewarding to see that struggle end by the end of the class with their exuberant smiles."

This effort is part of CN’’s broader national mission to connect more people to the internet. To date, the national nonprofit has trained nearly 150,000 people and positively impacted more than 21 million individuals across the United States.

The Longview Public Library served as the training site, and participants will continue to have access to library resources for ongoing digital learning and support.

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About Connected Nation: Marking its 25th anniversary in 2025, 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. 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.