How Digital Skills Are Opening Doors for Eastern Kentuckians

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. 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.