State launches Tech Directory

This week the state Department of Information Services launched a Directory of Community Technology Programs in Washington.

The directory was part of a package designed by state legislators last year to encourage high-tech education and workplace skills for working families across Washington. Other pieces include an inventory of current internet infrastructure, as well as the development of a plan to provide high-speed internet service to disenfranchised or unserved areas.

All of this means progress towards a healthy and vibrant, 21st century and globally focused state economy in the eyes of State Representative Zack Hudgins (D – Tukwila). “This is about helping people get the skills to succeed in today’s – and tomorrow’s - economy, regardless of income or location.”

Hudgins, along with counterparts in the Senate like Sen. Kohl-Welles, plan to continue working on bringing high-speed internet connections to all corners of the state, and all points in between, as he likes to point out. “Even in my district, arguably the most industrialized and urbanized in the state, there are pockets without access to the internet. With so many informational and educational opportunities available online now, access to the internet has become almost as important to learning as paper and pencils, and a vital businesses tool for competing in a global marketplace.”

So you don't have to scroll all the way back to the top of this post and risk developing any more carpal-tunnel, the Directory of Community Technology Programs can be found here again.