NJIT Awarded State Grant to Bridge Technology Divide in New Jersey

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) has been awarded $1 million through the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s (NJDOL) Digital Literacy and Equity Training Grant Program to launch its Building Digital Bridges initiative — a comprehensive program that will provide digital literacy training, career coaching and certification opportunities to underserved New Jersey residents.
The program will be led by the Learning and Development Initiative, NJIT’s professional credentialing and skills-based education division, and targets eligible WorkFirst New Jersey (WFNJ) individuals in Essex, Hunterdon and Somerset counties. In collaboration with the Essex County and Greater Raritan Workforce Development Boards, NJIT will deliver a multi-phase program that equips participants with essential digital skills and prepares them for employment in today’s technology-driven economy.
“Digital equity is workforce equity,” said Michael Edmondson, associate provost for Continued Learning at NJIT. “Through Building Digital Bridges, we are empowering New Jersey residents with the tools they need to navigate the modern workforce, while supporting local economies and closing opportunity gaps.”
The program addresses both access and skills — two major barriers contributing to New Jersey’s digital divide. Participants will receive:
- A computer and accessories that they keep upon completing the program
- 12 weeks of training that includes basic digital literacy and preparation for the industry-recognized CompTIA ITF+ certification.
- Workplace readiness coaching and performance development
- Mentorship and career guidance that extends up to 12 months post-training
- An opportunity to complete NJIT’s AI Literacy microcredential — a self-paced course introducing responsible and practical applications of artificial intelligence
The program model emphasizes individualized learning plans, flexibility and wraparound support services — such as transportation reimbursements and onsite internet access — to help participants overcome logistical or technical obstacles.
“NJDOL is proud to launch the Digital Equity Training program to empower WorkFirst New Jersey participants with digital skills and industry-recognized credentials and certifications that are needed in today’s job market,” said Robert Asaro-Angelo, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development in the state’s release.
“Our commitment to reducing the digital divide will help to connect marginalized New Jerseyans with essential tech skills that can lead them to sustainable careers. This initiative will help to strengthen our working families, communities, workforce and economy for generations to come,” said Asaro-Angelo.