Tech Ready
From connected to confident.
Digital skills classes in your community, at no cost to learners. Whether you want a new job, or just want to keep up with your grandkids, we'll meet you where you are.
41%
of low-income adults lack basic digital literacy skills.
1 in 3
U.S. workers who lack the foundational digital skills that 92% of jobs now require.
73%
of adults 65+ say they need someone else to show them how to use a new device — we're that someone.
What Is Tech Ready?
Not a tech class. A confidence class.
Most people who feel behind on technology aren't behind, they've just never had someone patient enough to walk them through it. Tech Ready is a small-cohort class held right in your community: a library, a community center, a space you already trust. No jargon, no judgment, and no assumption that you're starting from zero, or that you need to end up anywhere in particular.
Tech Ready is offered at no cost to participants, thanks to the partners and funders who make it possible. Built on Northstar Digital Literacy, the standard used by more than 3,100 workforce boards, libraries, and Adult Basic Education programs nationwide, so the skills you build here are recognized everywhere.
The Program
Learn It. Practice It. Own It.
A simple rhythm that turns an intimidating topic into a skill you actually keep. Nine tracks, from your first email to protecting yourself online, taught in short, hands-on sessions.
01
Learn It
A live class, in your community, taught by trained, paid college students who explain things in plain language, not tech-speak.
02
Practice It
Review what you learned between sessions using our mobile flashcard app. A few minutes on your phone, no computer required.
03
Own It
Take the official Northstar assessment and walk away with a certificate for your employer, or just show off to your grandkids.
The Curriculum
Nine skills. Three building blocks.
Every track is a standalone class, take one or take all nine. Together, they build from first click to full confidence.
Foundations
Where everyone starts
Basic Computer Skills · Internet Basics · Using Email
Office Skills
Tools employers expect you to know
Microsoft Word · Excel · PowerPoint
Staying Safe
Protect yourself, stay in touch
Social Media · Digital Footprint · Cybersecurity Basics
For Partners & Funders
More than a class. A measurable outcome.
Every participant who completes a track can sit for an official Northstar assessment and earn a certificate, real, portable proof of skill, not just attendance.
Classes are taught by trained, paid college students, not volunteers, so your community gets consistent instruction while local students build resume-worthy teaching experience of their own.
It's outcome-based training funders can point to, and a turnkey program partners can bring into a space they already run, no new facility, no new staff, just a room and a community that trusts you. Participants never pay a dollar, that's only possible because funding partners like you cover the cost of delivery.
Who We Serve
Built for any reason, not just one.
Career switchers building a resume. Seniors who just want to feel confident with the phone in their hand. Working adults with no time to spare. Tech Ready doesn't ask why you're here, it asks what would help, and builds from there.
Ready to bring Tech Ready to your community?
We're looking for community sites ready to host a Tech Ready cohort, offered at no cost to participants and made possible through partner support. Whether you're a library, senior center, nonprofit, or community organization, reach out to learn how we can bring this to your space.