Not everyone leads with empathy — and that’s okay.
One harsh lesson was realizing that not everyone shares the same values regarding people-first leadership. That doesn’t mean you should change who you are. I’ve learned to stay true to what I believe in: treating people with respect, doing the right thing even when it’s hard, and leading with integrity — regardless of what others are doing.
Digital inequality reinforces existing social disparities, demanding considerable efforts to acknowledge and address this pressing issue. In this interview series, we are talking to business leaders, policymakers, think tanks, and experts to share their insights and stories about “How Companies and Policymakers Are Taking Action and Can Further Contribute to Closing the Digital Divide.” As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Deb Alderson.
Deb Alderson is the CEO of ViaPath Technologies, where she leads with grit and compassion to help break the cycle of incarceration through transformative technology and second-chance opportunities. With over 25 years in executive leadership, she’s known for building high-performing teams, guiding companies through change, and always keeping people at the center of the mission. Deb is deeply committed to creating safer, more connected correctional environments and ensuring that individuals leaving those facilities have the tools and support they need to succeed.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to ‘get to know you.’ Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
Iwas born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, by a strong single mom, with tremendous support from my grandmother. Both women were incredibly driven and resilient, shaping who I am today. I grew up believing in the value of hard work, showing up for others, and always treating people the way I’d want to be treated. Those early lessons have stayed with me throughout my life and career.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it has resonated with you?
I tend to read as a way to unwind, and I’ve always found mysteries especially entertaining. While I wouldn’t point to one book that changed my life, I believe there’s something powerful about stories that challenge you to think critically, follow clues, and see different perspectives. It’s a small but meaningful way I reset and recharge.
Do you have a favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life or work?
“Be prepared. Do your homework.” That’s always been my approach. If you want a seat at the table, you must earn it through hard work and preparation. I’ve carried that mindset throughout my career — whether walking into a boardroom, leading a tough conversation, or taking on a new challenge. I’ve learned that preparation builds confidence, credibility, and trust — which often sets you apart.
Ok, thank you. Now let’s move to the primary focus of our interview. How would you define the Digital Divide? Can you explain or give an example?
The Digital Divide is the gap between those who have access to technology and digital skills — and those who don’t. It’s not just about devices or internet access; it’s about opportunity. For example, many people impacted by incarceration are released into a world that expects digital fluency, yet they’ve had limited or no access for years. At ViaPath, we work to close that gap by providing secure technology within facilities and helping individuals develop the digital skills they need to succeed after release.
Can you tell our readers about your experience working with initiatives to close the digital divide? Can you share a story with us?
At ViaPath, closing the digital divide is central to our mission. We work in correctional facilities nationwide, where access to technology has historically been limited or nonexistent. Our programs have introduced secure tablets and digital learning tools that help incarcerated individuals stay connected to their families, build job skills, and prepare for life after release.
One story that stays with me is from a man who had been incarcerated for over a decade. When he first received a tablet, he didn’t know how to turn it on. But within months, he used it to take educational courses, write emails to his children, and practice digital literacy skills. He told us he felt he had a fighting chance when he was released. That’s what it’s about — empowering people with the tools to thrive, not just survive.
This may be obvious to you, but it will be helpful to spell this out. Can you explain to our readers why creating change in this area is so important?
Creating change in this area is essential because access to technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Everything from applying for a job to accessing healthcare or communicating with loved ones happens online. When people are excluded from the digital world, they’re excluded from opportunity.
For individuals impacted by incarceration, that divide can be devastating. Without digital skills or access, they’re more likely to struggle with reentry, unemployment, and even recidivism. Closing the digital divide helps level the playing field — it restores dignity, opens doors, and strengthens communities.
What specific actions has your company or organization taken to address the digital divide, and how do you ensure that your efforts positively impact the communities you serve?
At ViaPath, we have taken concrete steps to close the digital divide, particularly within the corrections system. We have deployed secure tablets and digital platforms in over 2,000 facilities, providing access to educational content, reentry resources, and the ability to connect with loved ones. We also offer training to build digital literacy — so individuals are not just given tools; they are taught how to use them confidently.
To ensure we are making a real impact, we measure outcomes such as course completion rates, reduced recidivism, and post-release employment. However, just as important, we listen to the people inside, to returning citizens, and to community organizations, so our solutions remain human-centered and effective.
What are some of the challenges that individuals or communities face when trying to bridge the digital divide?
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One of the biggest challenges is that the digital divide isn’t just about access — it’s also about readiness. Even when people are given a device or internet access, they may lack the digital literacy or confidence to use it effectively. This can lead to frustration and discourage long-term use.
For communities, funding and infrastructure are significant barriers. Rural areas may lack broadband access entirely, and even in cities, cost can be a hurdle for families. There’s also the issue of keeping up — technology evolves quickly, and without ongoing support, people can fall behind again. That’s why our solutions must focus on providing tools and offering training, support, and patience.
What role do you see technology companies playing in closing the digital divide, and what steps can they take to ensure their products and services are accessible to all?
Technology companies have a decisive role in closing the digital divide, not just by building products, but by creating accessible ones. That means designing with intention for all users, including those with disabilities, limited literacy, or limited tech experience. At ViaPath, we ensure our products meet ADA standards because accessibility can’t be an afterthought — it must be integrated from the start.
Beyond product design, tech companies can partner with communities, invest in training and support, and listen to the people they serve. It’s not enough to provide the tools; we must ensure that people can use them to improve their lives.
Because of investment from the federal government, we have funding for excellent access to infrastructure and digital skills training. In your view, what other policy changes are needed to address the digital divide? How can companies and policymakers work together to implement these changes?
Federal investment in infrastructure and digital skills training has been a critical step forward, but there is still more to do. One key area is long-term sustainability. Access and training shouldn’t be one-time initiatives; they need ongoing support to truly stick. Policymakers can help by ensuring funding is flexible enough to evolve with technology and community needs.
Companies, in turn, can be strong partners by offering real-world insights, contributing scalable solutions, and helping measure what is actually working. When the public and private sectors collaborate — listening to each other and to the communities they serve — we are in the best position to create lasting change and close the divide for good.
We are already in Web 3.0. What should we do as leaders to ensure that the Web’s next iteration(s) are green, accessible, and beneficial to as many people as possible?
As leaders, we need to actively shape the next evolution of the Web to be accessible, sustainable, and inclusive. That starts with investing in digital equity — expanding access, building inclusive design into our platforms, and providing tools and training for underserved and justice-impacted communities. We must also advocate for greener tech infrastructure and hold ourselves accountable for ethical innovation. At ViaPath, we’re working to ensure the digital future reflects real-world values: opportunity, second chances, and a commitment to people.
This is the signature question we ask in most of our interviews. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
1. Don’t let work take priority over your physical and mental health.
Early in my career, I was laser-focused on work — constantly on the go, answering emails at all hours, skipping meals, and ignoring signs of burnout. Eventually, this caught up with me and began to cloud my decision-making. I realized that caring for myself wasn’t a luxury but a responsibility. Now, I schedule time to rest and reset because I know I’m at my best when I’m well.
2. Don’t be afraid to lose.
I once lost a significant contract that I’d poured my heart into. Instead of immediately learning from the experience, I spent too much time second-guessing myself. I’ve since learned that every loss has something to teach you — if you’re open to it. Some of my most significant professional growth has come from moments that didn’t go my way.
3. Have the hard conversations early.
I used to hold on to underperforming employees for too long, hoping things would improve without addressing the issue directly. However, avoiding those difficult conversations only harmed the team and reflected poorly on my leadership. Providing honest and respectful feedback early on isn’t just better for the team; it gives the individual a fair chance to improve.
4. Be decisive.
I’ve learned that making a decision — even if it’s not perfect — is often better than waiting too long. It’s also okay to pivot if new information comes to light. People look to leaders for clarity, not perfection; decisiveness builds trust.
5. Not everyone leads with empathy — and that’s okay.
One harsh lesson was realizing that not everyone shares the same values regarding people-first leadership. That doesn’t mean you should change who you are. I’ve learned to stay true to what I believe in: treating people with respect, doing the right thing even when it’s hard, and leading with integrity — regardless of what others are doing.
What role can individuals play in closing the digital divide, and what steps can they take to support these efforts?
Everyone can play a part in helping to close the digital divide. Sometimes it starts with noticing — realizing that many people still lack reliable internet, access to devices, or the confidence to use them.
There are simple ways to make a difference, such as helping someone learn to navigate a smartphone, donating an old laptop, or supporting community spaces like libraries that provide digital tools and training. It doesn’t take much to open a door for someone. At the heart of it, this work focuses on connection, confidence, and creating opportunities for everyone to participate fully in today’s world.
How can our readers follow you online?
You can follow our work at ViaPath Technologies by visiting www.viapath.com and connecting with us on LinkedIn. We regularly share stories, updates, and insights from the field as we work to create meaningful second chances and close the digital divide.
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!