Technology touches nearly every part of our lives—from applying for a job and managing finances to accessing education, healthcare, and everyday services. But having access to technology is only part of the equation. Knowing how to use digital tools confidently is just as important.
That’s why Goodwill Central Texas is proud to celebrate Digital Inclusion Week, October 4 through 10, a nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness about digital equity and the importance of access to reliable internet, devices, digital skills, and ongoing support.
This year’s theme, “Sustain, Empower, Evolve: Building a Brighter Digital Future,” focuses on creating lasting solutions, empowering people with digital skills and resources, and making sure digital inclusion efforts keep pace as technology continues to change.
At Goodwill Central Texas, we’re bringing that mission to life with Connect to Tech: AI & Beyond. This free community event is designed to help Central Texans explore artificial intelligence, digital tools, and practical ways to build their confidence with technology.
Connect to Tech: AI & Beyond
Join us on Thursday, October 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Goodwill Community Center, 1015 Norwood Park Blvd., Austin, TX 78753 for hands-on workshops, resources, and opportunities to learn more about the technology shaping our lives and workplaces.
Whether you’re curious about what AI can do, want to learn how to use it more effectively, or simply want to feel more comfortable navigating today’s digital world, Connect to Tech offers an approachable place to learn and explore.
Throughout the event, attendees can participate in three digital skills workshops:
- 10 a.m.: AI and the Future of Work, presented by HC4A
- 11:30 a.m.: Digital Money Matters, presented by JP Morgan
- 1 p.m.: Intro to AI — Spanish, presented by Austin FreeNet
Connect to Tech will also feature community resources, an AI Exploration Lab, snacks, and prizes.
Why Digital Inclusion Matters
Digital skills have become an important part of nearly every step of the employment journey. Searching and applying for jobs, creating a resume, interviewing, communicating with employers, completing online onboarding, and using technology in the workplace all require some level of digital competence.
And as technology and AI continue to evolve, the ability to learn and adapt to new tools is becoming an increasingly important part of workforce readiness and career advancement.
That’s why digital inclusion is an important part of Goodwill Central Texas’ workforce development mission. Digital inclusion is about so much more than access to a device or internet connection. It’s also about helping people build the skills and confidence to use technology to pursue employment, succeed in the workplace, and advance their careers.
Digital Inclusion Week also recognizes that inclusion strategies must evolve alongside new technologies so that underserved and disconnected communities aren’t left behind. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into the workplace, helping people understand and confidently use these tools is another important part of preparing Central Texans for the changing world of work.
Connect to Tech is one way Goodwill Central Texas is helping community members build those skills—whether that means learning about AI for the first time, understanding digital finances, exploring how technology is changing the workplace, or simply becoming more confident using digital tools.
Build Your Digital Confidence with Goodwill Central Texas
Digital Inclusion Week may last seven days, but Goodwill Central Texas’ commitment to digital inclusion continues throughout the year.
Through Goodwill TECH, funded by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM), Central Texans can access digital skills training designed to help them use technology more confidently and effectively. Goodwill TECH also includes the Earn and Learn device distribution program, which connects eligible community members with technology while providing the skills and training they need to put it to use.
Goodwill Central Texas is also currently offering free Google AI Training through the end of 2026. The self-paced, online training gives community members an opportunity to develop practical AI skills and become more confident using a technology that is playing a growing role in the workplace.
Together, programs like Goodwill TECH, Earn and Learn, and Google AI Training reflect what digital inclusion is all about: not simply providing access to technology, but helping people develop the skills to use it as a tool for employment, career advancement, and greater opportunity.
Join us Thursday, October 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Connect to Tech: AI & Beyond at the Goodwill Community Center. Come explore what AI can do, build new digital skills, and discover practical ways technology can work for you. Register here today!
For more information about Connect to Tech, contact digitalaccess@gwctx.org.
