TVA is the nation’s largest government-owned energy provider. It supplies public power to 153 LPCs and approximately 60 large industrial customers and federal facilities. TVA’s transmission and bulk power system serve communities across an 80,000 sq. mile territory, providing electricity to nearly 10M residents across 7 states in the TN Valley. Recently launched, TVA’s Connected Communities Initiative offers resources and helps communities make progress in key areas to address challenges and prepare for a modern energy system. The focus areas include broadband and digital literacy, technical workforce development, energy and environmental justice and enhanced community resiliency. Georgia Caruthers is the Sr Project Lead for Connected Communities in Innovation and Research at TVA and has a background in environmental engineering and standing up projects in disadvantaged communities.