The Relentless and Rewarding Work of a Digital Navigator in Rural Iowa

Working in rural Iowa, where seven of the state’s smallest incorporated communities are located, Digital Navigator Allison Ruhl has been tirelessly building a program to reach residents with technical assistance, digital skills training, and devices. Her work bridges the gap for people in hard-to-reach geographies, helping them gain the tools and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Allison is central to the Community Broadband Action Network (CBAN)’s participation in NDIA’s National Digital Navigator Corps. With support from a Google.org grant, Allison meets residents, assesses their digital skills, and tailors training to meet their individual needs. Whether it’s helping a grandmother send her first email or guiding families toward affordable internet options, Allison understands the life-changing potential of each interaction.