How CEOS can make a lasting impact on tech literacy
Computers for Success Canada’s executive director Michel Langelier says Canada’s CEOS can help bridge the digital divide--and he has a plan.
Technology’s evolution at breakneck speed has led to a digital divide with future workforce challenges for Canadian business. At a time when some families are choosing between laptops and groceries, it’s more important than ever for Corporate Canada to help bridge the gap, says Michel Langelier, executive director of Computers for Success Canada (CFSC-OPEC).
“Companies have technology they need to recycle, skills and warehouse space to share and Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) commitments to deliver on, and CFSC-OPEC can help them do it,” he said.
The nonprofit organization has a proven track record in helping schools, organizations and individuals at risk of digital exclusion to adopt the technology and skills they need to thrive in our society. Working with companies like CN and Mcdonald’s, it is a partnership solution to the technology surplus and workforce challenges companies face.
“We are now looking to more leaders to join Computers for Success Canada’s CEO Pledge Program and become a collective driving force in not only solving current access to digital literacy problems but also creating a lasting digital legacy for Canada,” Langelier added.
To date, more than 52 organizations have made a difference by joining the CEO Pledge Program. They join founding members Microsoft, long-standing supporters Bell and TELUS, and other signatories like Best Buy Canada, Enbridge Inc., Rogers Communications, Scotiabank, Staples, Sun Life and TD Bank Group, among others.
Many, like Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC), donate end-of-cycle devices through the Computers for Schools Plus program, which has 14 affiliates in every province and territory. CTC has committed to donate 11,000 devices, equivalent to $1.25 million worth of refurbished technology, destined to assist underserved communities across Canada.
Langelier, an MIT graduate whose long resume includes CEO positions in the hightech industry, first became sensitized to the problem while heading the CEFRIO, a research center that helped industries embrace digital transformation. He also was influential in developing Quebec’s R&D Innovation strategy. In both circles, he strongly advocated that technology must be accessible if Canada wishes to compete in the global digital economy.
Since 1993, CFSC-OPEC has collected over 2.2 million used computers and other devices. The program also provides beneficial work experience to Canadian youth through paid internships.
“As Computers for Success Canada continues to gather the hardware to help Canadian youth build their digital literacy skills, we also now need corporations willing to donate in-kind services to help with distribution to those in families, students and community organizations in need, such as warehouse space or transportation and shipping services,” he said.
CFSC-OPEC also welcomes monetary donations from businesses big and small. And in this, Langelier has set an ambitious goal of raising $60 million by 2029. With potential matching contributions from the federal, provincial and territorial governments, the fund could eventually top $250 million.
To join the CEO Pledge Program, Langelier is ready to take your call.
“We are confident that Canada’s CEOS will want to support the vision of Computers for Success Canada,” he said. “Together, we can build a digitally literate workforce of the future, while helping companies meet their ESG goals.”
For further information, contact Michel Langelier at michel.langelier@cfsc-opec.org or 514-712-2727.