Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T: The ready-to-go community service project your chapter is looking for in 2025
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped how we live, work, and connect. As more aspects of daily life shifted online, the need for digital skills became undeniable. It’s no longer enough just to have access to technology—people need the knowledge and confidence to use it effectively. That’s where Connected Nation’s initiative Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, comes in, filling this gap by empowering teens to lead digital skills training in their communities.
Launched by Connected Nation in collaboration with AT&T, Teens Teach Tech (TTT) offers a dynamic opportunity for teens to make a real impact while gaining leadership skills and earning money for their clubs, school teams, and organizations. This program is more than just a community service project—it’s a pathway for teens to learn, lead, and support the development of digital skills for adults.
A growing Digital Divide
The importance of being able to navigate online spaces has increased dramatically over the past five years. Everything from accessing healthcare to managing finances has been transitioned to a digital format. While some people are able to work or study from home, others still struggle due to a lack of basic digital literacy. These challenges that many adults face when navigating technology have become more visible, and programs like TTT were created to meet these needs head-on.
“While access to the internet and devices is essential, people also need the knowledge and skills to use that technology effectively to truly thrive in the digital world" said Jessica Golson, Outreach Coordinator for Connected Nation. “We believe that teens are the ideal trainers to support those who lack those skills.”
Perfect for school year programming
Last summer, CN introduced Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T to the FBLA network at the National Leadership Conference in Orlando. The response we received was clear – this youth-led service project is the perfect fit for service-minded chapters and school clubs across the country. The program is fully packaged and easy to launch, allowing teams to get started quickly. CN provides the curriculum, start-up funding, training, and continuous support for each and every team from start-to-finish, making this project the easiest decision for your chapter this year. Whether it’s a student council, a service club, or a community-based organization, TTT offers a ready-to-go program that allows students to engage in leadership and service while making meaningful impacts in their communities. In 2024, over fifty percent of new TTT teams originated from FBLA chapters and we are looking to triple that number in 2025!
While the program’s focus is community impact and service, it conveniently doubles as a fundraiser for your chapter without the hassle of asking parents and community members to spend their hard-earned money. Teams earn $10 for every adult they train, up to $4,000/chapter, by hosting digital skills training events. These incentives can be allocated to purchase equipment, fund academic trips, and even help pay for conference attendance.
Connected Nation’s staff are available to help educators and team leaders get started right away. "We make it easy for busy teachers and community leaders to start a team," said Golson. "The program was created to be flexible so the teens can focus on being creative and innovative as they plan workshops."
Real-world skill building
For teens, this program goes beyond just fundraising. It’s an opportunity to gain leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills that are critical for their future. Michael Schmalz, a teen from Birmingham, AL, who started a TTT team in 2024, shared his experience: "Leading workshops has sharpened my communication abilities, as I’ve had to break down complex ideas in ways that make sense to people of all backgrounds. I’ve also developed leadership skills by organizing volunteers and coordinating logistics for the workshops. Problem-solving has been a constant necessity—whether it’s dealing with unexpected technical issues or helping participants overcome individual hurdles. These skills will undoubtedly benefit me in any future leadership role."
Teens like Michael aren’t just learning—they’re leading. The freedom to design their own workshops and approach has helped teens across the country develop a sense of ownership and responsibility. Sabrina Hayes, a mentor from Tallahassee, Florida, highlighted what sets Teens Teach Tech apart: "What makes Teens Teach Tech different is the level of freedom it provides to teens. They aren’t tied to a rigid curriculum, and that flexibility allows them to experiment with creative ways to engage their learners. It’s this freedom that builds confidence and problem-solving skills, making it a standout experience.
Teens Teach Tech’s Success
Since the launch in 2022, Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, has connected with over 700 students spread across 33 states. These future leaders have trained over 15,000 adults in basic digital skills, demonstrating the immense impact that this initiative can have on communities of any shape and size. The program’s success is a testament to the need for digital skills training and the ability of teens to step up and lead when given the opportunity. This year, the program is set to expand even further, with more teams onboarding every week looking to help their communities bridge the Digital Divide.
What’s the bottom line?
Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T offers a unique chance for teens to develop critical skills, earn money for their chapters, clubs, and organizations, and give back to their communities. It’s a program that benefits everyone involved—and one that’s ready to go when you are.
"We’ve built this program to be accessible, with all the resources and support teams need to succeed right away," said Golson. "It’s the perfect service project for any team looking to make a difference and earn money while doing it."
If you're interested in bringing Teens Teach Tech, powered by AT&T, to your school or FBLA chapter, reach out to Connected Nation to learn more. Together, we can help build a more digitally literate and empowered future.
Contact: Jess Golson
Email: jgolson@connectednation.org
Phone: 931-472-5152