Reducing the digital divide in Cameron County and the Rio Grande Valley will have many positive impacts on our communities. The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to the internet and digital devices and those who do not. Providing access to high-speed internet is a great enabler and equalizer. Some ways reducing the digital divide can help Cameron County:
1. Access to Educational Resources: Bridging the digital divide will ensure equal access for Cameron County students to educational resources available online, allowing students to participate in distance learning. VTX1 has also created a gaming or esports competition where students from all economic backgrounds can compete against each other. What was once thought to be just a game is now a multi-billion dollar industry that awards unique college scholarships.
2. Expanding economic opportunities: Internet access and digital skills are essential in today’s job market. By reducing the digital divide, Cameron County residents will have greater access to online job opportunities, remote work options, and a variety of digital tools to improve their skill sets.
3. Access to health care: Bridging the digital divide will ensure residents have access to online health resources, telehealth services, and medical information, improving overall access to health care.
4. Community engagement: Digital connectivity enables residents to participate in their communities, local government, and civic engagement.
5. Small Business Growth: Improved digital access benefits local businesses by expanding their customer base through online platforms.
6. Social inclusion: Access to digital resources can help reduce social isolation, especially for vulnerable groups. This allows individuals to stay connected with friends and family, participate in social networks, and access important information about community events.
Companies like VTX1 Internet have been serving communities since 1952, when the Valley Telephone Cooperative provided telephone service to areas lacking telephone service.
Fast forward to today – VTX1 Internet provides high-speed internet service to areas where other companies deny access.
As we often say, we’re big enough to do what the big guys can do, but small enough to do what the big guys can’t do.
VTX1 is committed to serving South Texas. This public-private partnership is the best way to obtain funding to fully provide affordable internet to all Cameron County residents.
VTX1 has more than 200 employees and serves the Rio Grande Valley. We give back to the community every month in addition to his 20 scholarships awarded each year. We strive to make our community a better place to live. Starting salary increased to $16 in 2023. Our average employee earns over $28 an hour, along with a generous health insurance and benefits package.
Editor’s Note: The above comments were made by VTX1 CEO Patrick McDonnell at a recent signing ceremony hosted by his company and Cameron County. A new partnership between the two organizations aims to bridge the digital divide that exists in Cameron County by expanding broadband service.
Editor’s note: Below is a video recording of Mr. McDonnell’s remarks at the signing ceremony.
