For this report, TLC visited Temple University’s Digital Access Center to learn more about their computer distribution program and workforce development initiatives.
I was privileged to be invited by Sean Mitchell, Senior Technical Support Specialist, to attend an Introduction to Computers training at Temple University’s Digital Access Center (DAC). The DAC currently resides in the former Norris Homes Recreation Center on 11th St. As I entered the center, the former gym was full of folding tables with multiple desktop computer setups arranged in rows. Four women were there to receive basic computer training as part of the computer distribution program that Sean leads.
The DAC, part of Temple’s Lenfest Center for Community Workforce Partnerships, was created in 2022 to combat digital inequities in North Philadelphia.
According to their literature, they “leverage resources within the university and the community to increase digital access, growing an expansive community tech support network, and building tech-literate talent pipelines for local employers.” With a focus on both digital inclusion and workforce development, the DAC understands the relationship that exists between these two initiatives. Research at the National Skills Coalition shows that 92% of jobs require essential digital skills, while ⅓ of workers lack the skills to achieve those jobs. Temple takes this a step further by focusing on entry-level tech jobs in the region.
The Introduction to Computers program provides free desktop computers, along with a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, to those in need. The only stipulation is that they attend four in-person sessions that teach participants how to assemble their computer system and basic Windows 11 skills. The computers are provided through Temple’s award-winning Computer Recycling Center (CRC), developed by Jonathan F. Latko, Associate VP for Business Operations for Information Technology Services and TLC board member.
The CRC has been providing refurbished computers to non-profits, churches, and other organizations for over 20 years.
Sean approached the training session with a kind and patient attitude – taking his time to answer questions and provide hands-on support. The participants came from diverse backgrounds and had varying levels of digital skills. One participant even had experience with building her own computer in the 1990s. Others were less experienced and needed help navigating with a mouse and understanding how to click and drag items. They were all eager to learn and even helped each other along the way. And not one to sit idly by, I jumped in to help when needed. As the class proceeded, the women learned that the computers they set up would be the ones they would take home after finishing their training.
Computer ownership is one of the key issues that Philadelphians struggle with, as mentioned in TLC’s recent report Resilience in Action: A Digital Access Agenda for Philadelphia. Temple’s model for acquiring and refurbishing computers is an excellent example of how this can be accomplished. And tying basic computer training with device distribution is another key component that makes their program so successful.
The computer distribution program is just one part of the services they provide. The Lenfest Center works closely with Temple’s Information Technology Services to provide paid workforce opportunities. This includes internships and apprenticeships in coordination with programs like Tech Impact and Drexel University’s Goodwin School.
During my visit, I spoke with Logann Snow, a graduate of Tech Impact’s TechWorks program. Tech Impact worked with Temple to secure an internship for Logann at the DAC with Sean. Through this opportunity, she was able to apply her tech skills to real-world situations and connect with the program’s community aspect.
Logann’s technology journey began in high school at MaST Community Charter School in Northeast Philly. MaST is a STEM-focused school, where she learned basic web development and coding skills. Logann enrolled with Tech Impact after high school, where she was part of a small cohort that worked closely together. After completing her internship in 2024, she was offered full-time employment as an Assistant Technology Support Specialist at Temple’s Technology Support Center. She now assists employees and students with account issues and basic computer troubleshooting.
Logann’s journey is a phenomenal testament to Temple’s comprehensive approach to addressing digital access in North Philadelphia. This approach also includes cybersecurity training, partnerships with re-entry programs, and direct ties to Philly Community Wireless, which addresses affordability issues in internet access. And, the DAC has dreams to expand its reach as it moves to a larger space on Cecil B. Moore Ave next spring.
Temple University’s commitment to digital inclusion and access is an incredible model that all universities should be aspiring to as anchor institutions. The Technology Learning Collaborative is thankful to have them as a member organization.