“If we’re really going to make a difference in workforce readiness, it has to start at the early ages, and we have to invest in it.” Those are the words of Mario Basora, CEO of Future Ready Five in Columbus, Ohio. 

At AT&T, we have invested millions of dollars in Ohio in recent years to support organizations like Future Ready Five and many others, who are helping prepare students of all ages for today’s ever-evolving workforce. To drive innovation and competitiveness, we work with dedicated community leaders who aim to put technology, training and resources into the right hands.

Connectivity plays an important role in these efforts, whether a student is completing homework online, a parent is learning new digital skills, or a job seeker is earning a certification. From 2021 to 2025, AT&T contributed more than $2.7 million in Ohio to organizations and initiatives focused on closing the digital divide. Additionally, we’ve distributed thousands of computers to students and their families across Ohio since 2021. AT&T has also opened four Connected Learning Centers in Akron, Columbus and Cleveland, which provide free access to computers, technology and digital learning opportunities.

This work is highlighted at Easterseals Redwood, where the organization built a computer lab for veterans to get supportive services, job coaching and more.

“With AT&T’s support, we have had the ability to create a one stop shop, having a central place where you can go to have multiple needs met,” said Erik Thomas, VP of Military and Veterans Services at Easterseals Redwood. “AT&T is helping our veterans be connected to resources.”  

Our work is grounded in the belief that digital inclusion and education requires more than access alone. It also requires affordability and adoption through digital literacy and skills training. That approach aligns with AT&T’s nationwide commitment to invest $5 billion by 2030 to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet and digital resources.

As technology continues to evolve, the skills young people develop today will help prepare them for tomorrow’s workforce. AT&T is building on these efforts through its participation in the Lowe’s Foundation’s Building Futures Skilled Trades Coalition, which aims to train and develop 1 million people for skilled trades careers by 2035, and its support for RAISE US, an initiative helping workers adapt to new opportunities in an AI-driven economy. 

Investing in education, technology, training, and workforce development opportunities are key to supporting students at every level, while helping develop Ohio’s workforce of tomorrow.