Overview
Join CORI for a deep dive into the future of rural tech talent. This webinar will spotlight how six rural communities have strengthened their tech workforce pipelines through cross-sector collaboration, informed strategy, and learner-centered supports.
CORI staff will share key findings from our Advancing Digital Skilling in Rural America project—a three-year national initiative funded by Ascendium that aimed to expand equitable access to technology careers for rural learners, particularly women, people of color, and low-income individuals.
What You’ll Learn
Drawing from CORI’s work with communities in Ada, Oklahoma; Chambers County, Alabama; Cochise County, Arizona; Selma, Alabama; Taos, New Mexico; and Wilson, North Carolina; we’ll explore:
- Trends in rural tech job demand and what employers say they need most
- How rural partners engaged over 90 employers and educators to align training with real-world demand
- What’s working, what’s challenging, and what’s next for sustainable tech talent ecosystems
Participants will also hear directly from local leaders in Wilson and Cochise County as they reflect on their on-the-ground experience building pathways that connect rural learners to economic opportunity.
Why It Matters
Rural Americans represent 11% of the national workforce but only 4% of the nation’s tech workforce—a gap driven by limited career exposure, misaligned training programs, and siloed systems. This project revealed that true progress requires coordinated efforts between employers, educators, and community partners, supported by data-driven strategy and clear feedback loops.
This webinar offers actionable insights and a replicable framework to help communities nationwide advance rural tech talent.
Who Should Attend
- Economic and workforce development leaders
- Educators and training providers
- Philanthropic and community partners
- Rural community advocates
- Employers seeking digital and tech talent
Access the webinar recording on-demand to learn how rural communities are building a more inclusive, tech-enabled future—and how you can apply these lessons in your own region.