Pima County’s commitment to digital equity has accelerated dramatically in recent years, and at the center of that effort is Michelle Simon, Director of the Office of Digital Inclusion. With 15 years of service to the county and a professional background spanning workforce development, nonprofit administration, public administration, and even network and database administration, Simon brings both technical expertise and deep community experience to the role. As she explains, her journey began in the public library system, where she taught residents how to use computers—“It’s funny how life comes full circle”. That early work eventually helped lay the foundation for the county’s digital inclusion strategy and the creation of the office in 2023.

The Office of Digital Inclusion was formed to ensure that every resident has access to high‑speed, ...