The Twin Cities Daily Planet ran a nice article today on impact broadband is having on jobs and economic development in rural Minnesota. They highlighted the ARRA-funded MIRC (Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities) initiative and some of the programs that are funded through MIRC.

The article points out that broadband infrastructure and adoption are key economic develop tools…

A key to that competition is access to high-speed internet connections, which requires new infrastructure and training throughout much of Greater Minnesota. That access can help increase access to jobs throughout the state.

…

Treacy emphasized the importance of access to infrastructure for broadband in rural Minnesota, as well the need for training in everything from the basic computer skills to social media and website skills.

And yes the Treacy above is me. Kind of funny to quote an article that has quoted me. It was fun to talk about the role that broadband/technology plays in jobs – because I do really think that it is a key solution to one of our biggest problems. I suspect most readers are very comfortable using technology. Imagine for one moment that you weren’t comfortable using a computer. Now imagine you’re looking for a job. Your prospects would not be sunny!