In Caldwell County, several partners came together to bridge the digital divide and support students when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute leveraged an existing relationship with Google to improve broadband access and obtain 75 Chromebooks. Doing so allowed high school and community college students to continue their coursework remotely uninterrupted, ensuring continuity in the county’s talent development pipeline through the pandemic.

What are the lessons learned from this story?

Cultivating industry relationships based on trust and collaboration can lead to robust community support when it is needed most. CCC&TI was able to work with Google, Caldwell County Schools, and the Education Foundation of Caldwell County. These organizations previously worked together and knew that continued partnership would benefit students during the pandemic.

When handled well, crisis situations can strengthen partnerships and community cohesion. The work county leaders did to keep everyone informed of the developing pandemic situation and available resources served to improve the connections between partners. Each organization leveraged unique strengths and new synergies became clear as responses developed. For example, providing broadband access to students also helped the county better serve job seekers who lacked internet access as well.