In Forest County, Wisconsin, where the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest spreads out for miles and the population is around 9,500, life appears to move a bit slower. But thanks to the efforts of local hero Steve Watson, things are speeding up—digitally, that is!
Located along the state’s northeast border, Forest County faces significant challenges with internet access, particularly for older residents and members of the Forest County Potawatomi and Sokaogon Chippewa Communities. The region’s dense trees and rugged terrain complicate the installation of broadband infrastructure. In addition to connectivity issues, residents also struggle with obtaining the necessary devices and digital skills to use the internet effectively. This is where Steve plays a crucial role in helping the community.
As a digital navigator on the Forest County Broadband Committee, Steve has made it his mission to help folks connect with technology in ways they never thought possible. Whether it’s getting someone set up with their first laptop, troubleshooting a tricky tech issue, or explaining how to use telehealth services, Steve’s the guy everyone knows they can count on.
“It’s not just about tech,” Steve says with a smile. “It’s about making sure people feel confident and comfortable in today’s digital world. It can be overwhelming, but once they get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless.”
Forest County Digital Navigator Program:
- Located along the northeastern border of Wisconsin
- 1,000 square miles of dense forest and 800+ lakes
- 9,500 residents, including Forest County Potawatomi Tribal Community and Sokaogon Chippewa Community
- Helped more than 250 residents with individualized computer and tech training and distributed over 100 devices
- Provided access to digital navigator resources at more than 300 community events, offering regular drop-in hours at local libraries and teaching digital workshops
- Program led by Forest County Broadband Committee and University of Wisconsin, Madison Extension
Since NDIA selected Forest County to be part of the National Digital Navigator Corps in 2022 as part of the grant from Google.org, Steve has been a familiar face around town. He’s not the type to stay behind a desk all day—Steve’s on the move, often traveling across the county to meet people where they are. Whether it’s at a local library, a Tribal community center, or someone’s home, Steve is always ready to lend a hand, and the community loves him for it. His patience, warmth, and easy-going demeanor have made him a local favorite. “Steve’s not just some IT guy,” one resident said. “He makes learning fun. I never thought I’d be able to use the internet, but thanks to him, I’m emailing my grandkids every week!”
Steve’s approach is personal. He gets to know people, listens to their concerns, and tailors his help to their needs. For seniors, it might be learning how to stay safe online or setting up a telehealth appointment. For others, it could be figuring out how to pay bills online or using social media to stay connected to family. The key? Steve makes technology feel doable, no matter how tech-savvy (or tech-shy) his clients are.
“Some of the folks I work with haven’t used computers much, if at all,” Steve explains. “They just need a little guidance and someone to show them that they can do this. I love seeing their confidence grow.”
Jackie Hurley’s letter to the editor,
Pioneer Express, July 1, 2024
Steve’s office at the Forest County Courthouse is regularly buzzing with activity. Partnerships with local schools, libraries, and Tribal centers help spread the word, letting people know that he’s there as a resource. Steve has helped more than 200 people with everything from computer basics to online security, ensuring Forest County’s residents have the skills they need to thrive.
Going beyond group settings, Steve is also there to address individual needs. He’s known for making house calls, driving through the dense forests and rolling hills to reach people who might be unable to travel. “Sometimes the best learning happens when I’m sitting at someone’s kitchen table, helping them with their device,” Steve shares. “That personal connection makes all the difference.”
In addition to learning digital skills, the community has benefited from increased access to devices. The digital navigator program helps source refurbished ThinkPad laptops and Lenovo tablets for local families in need, ensuring that more people have the tools they need to access the digital world.
The work doesn’t stop there. Forest County’s Broadband Committee is busy applying for grants to bring better internet access to the region, and in the meantime, Steve and his team are focused on what they can do right now—guaranteeing that residents have the digital skills they need, are equipped with devices, and are ready to tap into the possibilities of the online world.
“It’s exciting to see how much we’ve accomplished already,” Steve says. “But I know there’s so much more we can do. I’m just getting started.”
For the community Digital Navigator Program, digital equity is about finding the right solution for each person. “There’s no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to helping people get online,” Amber Rehberg, Area 4 Extension Director, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension, explains. “Some folks just need a few tips, while others need help finding the right device or even figuring out how to get basic internet access. It’s about making sure everyone has the tools they need to thrive.” Steve and the Forest County Digital Navigator Program are doing precisely that—taking a personal approach to bridging the digital divide, one resident at a time.
As the program grows and reaches even more people, the message is clear: everyone deserves a chance to participate in the digital world and ensure that no one in Forest County gets left behind.
Increasing Access, Affordability, and Adoption for Forest County Residents
- Raising Awareness: Community connections and local partnerships, including events, county fair exhibits, library meetings, and town halls, have been the most successful means to inform residents that a digital navigator program is available to them.
- Building Trusted Relationships: A digital navigator who is familiar with the community instills trust, which is essential to the program’s success.
- Access to Technology: Through National Digital Navigator Corps funding, more than 100 refurbished laptops and tablets were procured from Human-I-T and Nauncka and distributed to residents.
- Expanding Connectivity: The county is applying for Competitive Digital Equity Grant and state capacity grant funds to expand high-speed internet and provide ongoing access to affordable digital skills services.
Accessing community resources: Continued engagement with local organizations ensures comprehensive digital equity support for residents.
This blog was written in collaboration with Raynor Avenue Public Affairs.