The Montana Technology Corps at The University of Montana is an AmeriCorps program that is designed to bridge the digital divide in rural and urban areas of Montana.* The digital divide, as described by the Digital Divide Network as the "gap between those people and communities who can make effective use of information technology and those who cannot." This network also asserts that "unequal adoption of technology excludes many from reaping the fruits of the economy."

The Montana Technology Corps works towards bridging the digital divide and creating a more equitable society by addressing critical technology needs in Montana. It does this by developing and strengthening technology programs in schools and community centers. Our methods of accomplishing this mission include:

· Increasing opportunities for regular access to computer technology, and
· Empowering people by providing opportunities for them to gain proficiency in computer technology

We believe that by working toward such goals, program participants will ultimately have a better chance of gaining the computer skills that are necessary to give them equal opportunity for entrance to college or the workforce upon high school graduation.

(* The Montana Technology is Corps is an AmeriCorps organization. AmeriCorps, the domestic Peace Corps, is a national service organization that engages more than 50,000 Americans in intensive, results-driven service each year.)