Charlie HeadshotA decade ago, conversations about the digital divide — the gap between those with access to digital technologies and those without — focused mainly on high-speed, broadband internet.

While infrastructure challenges remain, New Hampshire has made significant progress. According to recent data from the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs, 98% of the state’s residents have access to broadband, defined by the FCC as download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps.

But have we have not yet succeeded in closing the digital divide. While building physical infrastructure is crucial, today’s digital divide increasingly relates to skills, not just fiber. Many struggle to use the internet for important tasks due to limited knowledge, not to mention lack of access to devices.

Imagine applying for a job, accessing your health records, enrolling in a class or managing your finances without the skills to navigate digital platforms and devices. Digital literacy entails much more than navigating the internet. It requires skills like using devices, working with spreadsheets and word processing, managing email, engaging responsibly on social media and troubleshooting basic issues. Without these skills, people often struggle with everyday tasks or miss out on vital services and job opportunities.

Dr. Colin Rhinesmith, director of the Digital Equity Action Research Lab at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, notes that years of research on the digital divide show that digital literacy is vital for success in today’s economy and society.

“Regardless of your background or location, digital skills are essential for daily life,” Rhinesmith points out. “As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into work, learning and communication, these skills are more crucial than ever.”

Digital skills are now a basic requirement for nearly every industry. Technicians enter data on tablets, construction workers use apps to track inspections, and caregivers navigate electronic health records. And it’s not just about landing a job; it’s also about earning power. A recent National Skills Collaborative report shows that workers in roles requiring even a single digital skill earn 23% more, or about $8,000 per year, than those in jobs requiring none. This isn’t just a workforce issue; it’s a key strategy for economic development.

Today, digital literacy is fundamental to success in almost every sector: Finance relies on navigating secure platforms and data systems; cmmunications and marketing depend on digital content creation; skilled trades rely on apps for job tracking and compliance; transportation uses GPS tracking to manage traffic and identity hazards.

Despite this shift, many New Hampshire residents still lack critical digital skills, thus leaving them disconnected from opportunity. The good news is that communities across the state are stepping up with creative, effective solutions. There are many examples of effective digital literacy initiatives across the state.

The Greater Nashua Digital Inclusion Coalition — led by the United Way and supported by libraries, community colleges and local employers — demonstrates how digital access can change lives. The coalition offers refurbished laptops to individuals and families, along with support from trained “digital navigators” who assist in accessing online services like health care, job applications and education safely.

In one project, 10 immigrant women received digital skills training and devices to start home-based child care businesses, addressing a critical need in the community.

“These initiatives aren’t just about teaching tech; they’re about empowering people with opportunity,” says Mike Apfelberg, president of the United Way of Greater Nashua.

Employers also have a responsibility to upskill workers. According to the Harvard Business Review, workers increasingly value opportunities to improve their skills and find greater job satisfaction with employers that provide clear pathways for advancement. In the long run, closing the digital skills gap helps businesses retain and attract talent.

To remain competitive in today’s global economy, New Hampshire can take steps to reduce the digital divide and prepare its workforce for current and future jobs. This will require ongoing investment in broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved places. And it will require strong support for digital skills training, everything from basic computer use to cybersecurity and digital communication.

Public-private partnerships that connect workforce training programs with employer needs are also vital. Communities that focus on access to both infrastructure and advancing digital skills will be better positioned to attract and retain jobs, including positions we can’t yet envision.

Charlie French leads UNH Cooperative Extension’s Community and Economic Development Department, which supports civic engagement, downtown revitalization and local economic growth. Last year he led the development of the NH Digital Equity Plan.



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