Business & Tech
Workforce Development Council Expands Digital Opportunity in Seattle
Digital Inclusion Week 2025 Serves as a Reminder About the Importance of Access to Technology and Development of Digital Skills
By Andy Colley, senior director and copywriter for Comcast NBCUniversal
On the final day of Digital Inclusion Week 2025, we’re reminded that digital opportunity is not just about access to technology—it’s about ensuring every individual has the tools, skills, and support to thrive in a connected world. In Washington, a powerful partnership between Comcast and the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County (WDC) is doing just that.
A Strategic Collaboration for Digital Opportunity
Comcast recently contributed $60,000 to support the deployment of Digital Navigators—trusted community members trained to help individuals access the internet, use devices, and build digital skills. These Digital Navigators are now stationed at WorkSource centers in Seattle’s Rainier Valley and Auburn, serving as vital resources for job seekers and community members who face barriers to digital access.
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Why Digital Navigators Matter
Digital Navigators play a critical role in bridging the digital divide. According to a Boston Consulting Group study, they are essential to reducing socioeconomic inequalities by helping more people get online and stay connected. Their presence ensures that community impact programs reach those who need them most—especially individuals below 150% of the poverty level, who are 30% less likely to own a laptop or tablet.
Marie Kurose, CEO of WDC, emphasized the importance of this work: “This underscores the need for greater digital opportunity in the city and county. Continued regional coordination and alignment in addressing the digital divide in Washington.”
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WorkSource Centers: One-Stop Hubs for Opportunity
The Seattle-King County WorkSource system includes two comprehensive centers, four affiliate sites, and 39 community-based partners. These centers serve as “one-stop” hubs for employment services, skills training, and community support—making them ideal locations for Digital Navigators to connect with residents and help them build digital confidence.
A Model for Inclusive Innovation
This partnership exemplifies the spirit of Digital Inclusion Week 2025—“Community-Driven Digital Futures.” By investing in people and places that serve the community, Comcast and WDC are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, connected, and empowered Washington.
