MANSFIELD — Richland Community Development Group (RCDG) announced Wednesday that it has been selected by Microsoft as a continuing Fellow in its TechSpark program to promote digital skilling in Richland County.
These efforts contribute to a digital ecosystem that empowers community members to improve their digital skills while fostering economic development.
RCDG’s workforce development initiatives will be supported by the Microsoft TechSpark grant.
Angie Cirone, Mansfield-Richland Area Educational Foundation Director, will continue as the TechSpark Community Engagement Fellow working to enhance computer science education and digital skilling.
Microsoft recently announced the second cohort of the TechSpark Community Engagement Fellowship, which supports nonprofit organizations across the country working to expand economic opportunities in their communities.
During its first year in the TechSpark program, RCDG united businesses, government entities, K-12 school districts, and higher education around the common goal of creating and sustaining a digital education ecosystem.
TechSpark enabled several initiatives for middle and high school students including Girls Who Code clubs, technology camps, and a Stellar Robotic Shawshank Showdown sponsorship.
A Teacher Technology Boot Camp allowed educators to tour technology-oriented businesses, create curriculum lessons, and receive graduate-level credit.
A cybersecurity speaker series took place in fall of 2024 to offer best practices to small businesses and spread awareness about the 179th Cyberspace Wing’s new mission.
“The Microsoft TechSpark program is an incredible opportunity for Richland County,” Cirone said. “K-12 students, college students, and adults across all industries have an opportunity to increase their digital skills. We are looking forward to announcing new training experiences with an AI focus.”
“Microsoft’s TechSpark program works closely with local community organizations to develop digital skills, support nonprofits and create jobs,” said Mike Egan, Senior Director, Microsoft TechSpark.
“By working together with Richland Community Development Group, we can help them deliver resources, education and digital skills for students that create greater economic opportunity in Ohio.”
Last year’s cohort of TechSpark Fellows secured over $177 million in funding support, reached 48,000 community members, and engaged 548 partners to help build economic opportunities in 42 communities across the nation.
Read more about Microsoft TechSpark here.
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development and its affiliate organizations Richland Community Development Group and Mansfield-Richland Area Educational Foundation are the champions of business, cultivating connections and fostering opportunities for success.