In Appalachia Kentucky where reliable internet access and digital literacy can mean the difference between opportunity and isolation, Ashley Smith is helping people navigate a new path forward. As the local Digital Navigator, Ashley has worked one-on-one with hundreds of residents, connecting them to education, jobs, and essential online resources.
“Many people here want to learn new skills for job opportunities but don’t know where to start,” Ashley explains. “Whether it’s getting a college student comfortable with online learning or teaching a thrift store owner how to make flyers with Canva, I want to bring digital skills to those who need them most.”
One of Ashley’s first clients was a college student struggling to use Blackboard, a platform essential for online coursework. Frustrated and falling behind, she turned to Ashley for help. After just a few sessions, she felt confident navigating the platform, keeping up with assignments, and taking control of her education.
Stories like this highlight the critical role Ashley plays in helping residents embrace technology–whether it’s setting up an email account, searching for a job online, or helping with telehealth appointments.
Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR), a nonprofit dedicated to rebuilding economically distressed communities in Eastern Kentucky, launched its Digital Navigator program in 2022 as part of NDIA’s National Digital Navigator Corp and support from a Google.org grant. The goal is to empower residents with tools and training to build critical tech skills and gain the confidence to get online.
Ashley hosts free classes and one-on-one training at libraries, career centers, and community organizations across the region. Her workshops cover everything from basic computer skills and resume writing to creating LinkedIn profiles, and Excel training.
At Big Sandy Community Technical College, she works with adults pursuing GED certification, ensuring they have the digital skills to succeed. She also supports Job Corps students–young people who didn’t complete traditional high school–helping them build digital skills that set them up for early employment.
Digital Navigator Ashley Smith with two laptop recipients.
For many residents, owning a computer has never been an option. Through SOAR’s partnership with career services organizations, Ashley ensures that residents who complete digital skills training receive a device. This ‘learn to earn’ model not only helps bridge the digital divide but also builds confidence in using technology effectively.
A Kentucky Career Center employee shared the impact of these efforts:
“Our customers come to us with a lot of needs. Most are recently laid off and are devastated about losing their jobs. Others come to us seeking better lives. The devices you are able to give to the customers who complete the assignments make such differences in their lives. They are able to seek work, go back to school, and get more training. They are able to better themselves, and in turn, that betters their quality of life for their families. A few have said how thankful they are to get this opportunity and to be able to better themselves through the program.”
Beyond job training, Ashley is helping residents in recovery programs regain stability. In 2024 alone, 114 clients in recovery earned 872 digital skill certificates in Northstar Online Learning, setting them on a path toward economic independence.
One participant, Terry, was in disbelief when Ashley told her she qualified for a laptop after completing her coursework. Overcome with gratitude, she shared:
“I came to this program with hope to better myself in every way possible. I got better at digital literacy even when I didn’t think I needed to learn. Through this program I have more hope and a way better understanding of computers and the program software that will help me drastically in the profession I want in the future.”
For those in remote areas of Eastern Kentucky, where broadband is scarce, SOAR is piloting a Starlink initiative to cover the first year of satellite service and installation costs for eligible residents.
Digital Navigator Ashley Smith pictured with Neon Rising and Connect Humanity in Fleming-Neon (Letcher County), Kentucky. The group met to create a connectivity plan to help with broadband needs, digital equity, and technical support.
Through partnerships with the Primary Care Centers of Eastern Kentucky, Ashley is hosting workshops to train participants on telehealth platforms, ensuring they can access essential healthcare services online. The goal is to distribute 60 Starlink satellites and teach 100 people how to use telehealth portals before the pilot program ends in May 2026.
The goal is to distribute 60 Starlink satellites and teach 100 people how to use telehealth portals before the pilot program ends in May 2026.
Access to reliable internet isn’t just about convenience—it can be a matter of life and death. During a Red Bird High School basketball tournament, the school’s phone lines were unexpectedly cut. A woman attending the game began experiencing severe chest pains, and with no way to call 9-1-1, school officials feared the worst. But thanks to a backup Starlink satellite provided by SOAR, they were able to place the emergency call and get help immediately. Without it, they would have had to drive 20 minutes to the nearest ridge just to find cell service.
“Digital skills are part of everyday life,” Ashley says. “We want people to not just have internet access, but to know how to use it effectively. When they sit down with me they start to see what’s possible.”
Ashley is already thinking about the future, with plans to expand the Digital Navigator program using a “train the trainer” model. This approach would equip local organizations to embed Digital Navigators into their programs, extending the reach of digital literacy resources across the region.
In a community long defined by resilience and determination, SOAR’s Digital Navigator program isn’t just about teaching technology—it’s about creating lasting opportunities, connecting residents to the digital world, and ensuring Eastern Kentuckians can build a future where they thrive.
Ashley’s work is a lifeline for Eastern Kentuckians, offering education, opportunity, and confidence to those who need it most. With more partnerships and funding secured, SOAR’s Digital Navigator program is set to expand and continue breaking down digital barriers in the Appalachian region—one person, one skill, and one connection at a time.
Increasing Access, Affordability, and Adoption for Eastern Kentucky Residents
- Creating Adult Education Opportunities. Digital navigators support adults pursuing GED certification, offering one-on-one digital skills training.
- Expanding Digital Inclusion. SOAR’s Digital Navigator program was instrumental in securing an Economic Development Administration grant, which will fund two additional Digital Navigators for workforce development outreach and training.
- ‘Learn to Earn’ Model. Residents in career services programs, community colleges, and recovery programs receive laptop computers after completing digital skills training, ensuring they are prepared for success.
- Workforce Development Readiness. Digital skills classes help people search for jobs, build resumes, and explore remote work opportunities.
- Supporting Eastern Kentucky Job Seekers. Digital Navigators provide training on the Eastern Kentucky Job Board, LinkedIn and online applications, ensuring residents are prepared for today’s job market.
This blog was written in collaboration with Raynor Avenue Public Affairs.