Digital Skills Hub Helps Participants Build Confidence and Opportunity Through Technology
At Alvis, opportunity often begins with a single step—and sometimes, a single click. Through the Digital Skills Hub, participants like Jawan and Paul are discovering that learning to navigate technology can open doors to confidence, career growth, and new beginnings.
From Curiosity to Confidence
When Jawan first heard about the Digital Skills Hub through his employment specialist, he didn’t hesitate to enroll. “She told me about the computer program and said it could really help me out,” Jawan recalled. “I wanted to do something that would make me more prepared for work—especially since I want to start my own business one day.”
Before joining the program, Jawan said his comfort level with technology was limited. “I knew a little bit—just the basics,” he explained. “But the class helped me learn more and get more confident using computers.”
Like many participants, Jawan found the experience to be both supportive and practical. “The instructors were helpful and patient,” he said. “They made sure we understood everything.” Among the lessons that stood out most were those on online safety—how to protect personal information and avoid scams. “That’s something everybody needs to know these days,” Jawan emphasized.
Since completing the program, Jawan has been putting his new skills to work every day. “I use what I learned for job searches and school,” he said. “Now I can do things on the computer by myself.” Beyond the technical training, the experience strengthened his confidence and inspired him to continue learning. “I’d even like to take more advanced computer classes in the future,” he added.
Learning That Leads to Opportunity
For Paul, the decision to join the Digital Skills Hub came just as naturally. “My case manager told me about it,” Paul shared. “When they came to me, I just told them I wanted to do it.”
Before the class, Paul rated his technology comfort level as “a six out of ten.” He knew some basics but wanted to keep up with the rapid pace of change. “Things move fast,” he said. “I wanted to learn more.”
The program exceeded his expectations. “It was good,” Paul said. “They supported me very good.” He especially valued the lessons on cybersecurity—learning how hackers “bait” users into giving away personal information. “You think it’s a real site, but they trick you into putting your information in,” he explained. “Now I know what to look out for.”
Paul also developed stronger communication skills, particularly through email. “Now I know how to respond to employers,” he said. “That helps a lot.” His confidence grew so much that he began helping classmates who were struggling. “I’m a quick learner when it comes to technology because I like it,” he said proudly.
Today, Paul continues to build on what he learned, now participating in the Solar Panel Installation Program, a partnership between Alvis and ARCH that connects participants to hands-on training and real-world employment opportunities. “The Digital Skills Hub gave me the foundation,” he said. “It kept me on a positive path.”
Empowerment Through Innovation
Both Jawan and Paul see the Digital Skills Hub as a natural fit for Alvis’ mission to innovate and empower individuals to rebuild their lives. “It fits perfectly,” Jawan said. “It gives people like me a second chance, helps us build new skills, and opens doors we didn’t even know were there.” Paul agreed, adding, “Y’all hit every base we need.”
When asked what advice they’d give to others considering the program, both men echoed the same sentiment: take the opportunity. “It helps you learn, gives you confidence, and opens up more opportunities,” Jawan said. Paul put it simply: “Take it—because you’re going to need it. Everything is on computers now, even ordering food.”
For these two men, technology training became more than a classroom experience—it became a steppingstone toward independence and self-belief. As Jawan reflected, “Alvis gave me a chance to take a class like this and even gave me a computer. I really appreciate that.”
And as Paul looked ahead, his words carried quiet optimism: “Now I see more opportunities ahead.”
