Michelle Simon

About Michelle Simon

Steering Pima County\'s digital inclusion initiatives, my tenure as Director has been…

Experience

1. Director Office of Digital Inclusion - Connect Pima

   Pima County

   Feb 2024 — Present · Tucson, AZ, US

   Developed the Connect Pima Digital Infrastructure and Inclusion Action Plan, a strategic initiative to enhance broadband deployment, strengthen digital literacy programs, and improve access to digital tools in collaboration with community stakeholders.Led the development, administration, and oversight of $45.5 million in federally funded broadband projects, collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies to expand internet access.Designed and launched a Digital Navigator Program and Learn to Earn Computer Class series, implementing national best practices to assist community members struggling with technology access and usage.Assessed and mapped Pima County’s broadband access, convening stakeholders to align assets, identify gaps, and drive connectivity solutions.Researched, analyzed, and applied broadband regulations, identifying policy barriers that limit community access and recommending solutions to enhance digital inclusion.Developed metrics to track and evaluate digital inclusion efforts, measuring long-term impact and integrating best practices for continuous improvement.Built multi-partner coalitions with the Arizona State Broadband Office, local municipalities, internet service providers, for-profit businesses, and community-based organizations to secure funding and expand access to high-speed internet, digital tools, and training.Conducted data-driven analysis and prepared reports, presentations, and policy briefs on broadband initiatives, funding allocations, and regulatory changes affecting digital equity.Directed strategic planning and financial oversight to ensure sustainability and maximize investments in countywide digital infrastructure projects.Developed and managed professional relationships with government agencies, digital inclusion advocates, and community leaders to advance the mission of the Office of Digital Inclusion.

Education

• University of Phoenix

  Master of Science (MS)

  2000 — 2004

• University of Arizona

  Master's Degree

  2013 — 2015

Skills

• Employee Training
• Grant Management
• Program Management
• Classroom Instruction
• Library Science
• Research
• Classroom
• Nonprofits
• System Administration
• Library
• Policy
• Network Administration
• Computer Hardware
• Job Search Strategies
• Computer Maintenance
• Asset Management
• Adult Education
• Inventory Management
• Program Evaluation
• Job Readiness
• Leadership Development
• Fundraising
• Workshop Facilitation
• Resume Writing
• Software Installation
• Peachtree
• Resource Management
• Workforce Development
• Scheduling
• Networking
• Program Development
• Training
• Volunteer Management
• Social Networking
• Instructor-Led Training
• Grant Writing
• Proposal Writing
• Grants
• Curriculum Design
• Microsoft Office