On March 27, 2026, Adelante’s DiverseIT team traveled to Socorro High School as part of the OBAE TechUp! New Mexico initiative. Working in partnership with Socorro Consolidated Schools, Superintendent Joyce Gormley, Principal Elizabeth Rivera, and their staff, DiverseIT distributed 29 new laptops to students, families, and community members. It was the second largest distribution event of the TechUp! New Mexico pilot project.
The excitement was clear throughout the day. Following the event, Principal Rivera shared that it was “like Christmas in March” as students and families received devices that will help them pursue educational and career goals.
TechUp! is Supporting Students, Families, and Lifelong Learning
The majority of the laptops distributed in Socorro went to local students. Many of the students were seniors anticipating going to college in the fall. Devices were also provided to family members and other adults in the community who lacked access to a reliable computer.
Like all participants in the TechUp! New Mexico pilot project, recipients will complete computer training courses through DiverseIT. The combination of technology and training helps ensure participants have the skills needed to use their devices effectively for education, employment, and everyday life.
Several students shared plans to use their new laptops as they prepare for college. For many, having a reliable computer at home will make it easier to complete assignments, conduct research, and explore future career opportunities.
All of this was made possible thanks to funding from the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access & Expansion (OBAE). While their primary mission is to create opportunities by expanding broadband internet through our state, OBAE also understands that having a device and the skills to use it is a key aspect of having various populations actually use that broadband.
Inspiring the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
One student shared that she plans to use her laptop not only for her own education, but also to support her efforts teaching younger students about STEM careers. She was excited about the opportunities the computer would provide as she continues encouraging children to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Her story reflects one of the goals of the TechUp! New Mexico initiative: creating opportunities that extend beyond individual recipients and positively impact entire communities.
Expanding Digital Access in Rural New Mexico
The Socorro event also highlights the broader mission of the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE). Across rural communities, access to reliable internet service, devices, and digital skills training can play an important role in education, workforce development, and economic opportunity.
While OBAE works on broadband infrastructure and continues to expand across the state, programs like TechUp! New Mexico help ensure residents have the tools and knowledge needed to fully participate in today’s digital world. By providing both laptops and training, the project is helping bridge technology gaps and create new pathways to success.
Building Opportunities Through Technology
The partnership between DiverseIT and Socorro Consolidated Schools demonstrates what is possible when schools, nonprofits, and community leaders work together to support students and families. Of course, OBAE plays an equally important role by funding this pilot project.
As the TechUp! New Mexico initiative continues traveling across the state, stories like those from Socorro show how access to technology can help students pursue higher education, strengthen digital skills, and create opportunities for future generations.