EDUCATION, TECHNOLOGY & CAREERS IN
INDIAN COUNTRY

by Mel Yawakie

Many American Indians in my generation share similar life experiences. We understand the sacredness of our spiritual beliefs, we feel the importance of extended family, and we know that the reservation is more than what some perceive it to be. Those of us who live and work in urban areas sometimes experience the reality of living in two worlds. One world is where we must operate with a sense of urg e n c y, and the other where we are reminded to listen and be patient. We envision giving back to tribal communities by using our l e a rned skills to improve the quality of life in our homelands.
     In tribal communities across the country, federal housing programs that began in the 1960s provided financial resources to address housing needs. With new housing we had running water and indoor plumbing in many of our homes for the first time. Federal programs of the 1930s and 1940s that were designed to provide electricity and telephone services to rural farmers were now also providing services to some tribal communities. Electricity became available to some residing on tribal lands in the 60s, and telephone services became available to some homes in the 70s. Throughout this period BIA roads were built to connect communities, although many of them were still gravel roads.
     While there are differing opinions on the federal role in Indian Country, the reality is that federal policies and programs are still important factors for tribal development. The quality of life issues that began to be addressed in the 19601s remain priorities for tribal governments as the new millennium approaches. However, some of the solutions to address tribal needs may re q u i re a paradigm shift. Within the past two years, the Federal Communication Commission has begun to develop policies that seek to improve basic and advanced telecommunication services on tribal lands.
     The telecommunication industry is experiencing the beginning of a new era as a result of the Telecommunication Act of 1996. Telecommunications is a dynamic industry that is improving the communication capabilities of businesses, governments, healthcare, and educational institutions. Unfortunately, some of the world's most diverse populations have limited access to telecommunication tools that can and will improve their quality of life. Those residing on American Indian reservations throughout the United States are at the greatest risk of not benefiting from telecommunication services because of the lack of adequate infrastruct re within tribal communities which is commonly re f e rred to as the "Digital Divide." Limited access to services leads to limited opportunities, and more appropriately should be viewed as an "Opportunities Divide." American Indians must work together to ensure that we are full p a rticipants in the Information Age economy.
     While there is limited demand for technically skilled people in Indian Country, there is g reat demand throughout the United States. The high demand for skilled professionals by corporations within the telecommunication industry is evident. Because of the shortage of tech-nical skills in the U.S. labor market, corporations will continue to recruit employees fro m outside of the U. S. for their technical expertise. Despite the boundless opportunities, Americans Indians are vastly under represented in this industry. The importance for American Indian college students pursuing degrees in telecommunication technology and information systems is increasingly apparent. Many of us understand the analogy that is often used to describe our ability to "live in two worlds. "We have felt the challenge of being American Indian students on a university campus, with that experience extending from engineering or technology classrooms to career choices. As AISES members, at whatever level, we share our culture and learning experiences. As the AISES professional pipeline continues to increase, we envision a future where we begin to fulfill another element of our mission — to nurt u re building of community by bridging science and technology with traditional Native values.

Mel Yawakie, Pueblo of Zuni tribe, is a senior lab engineer with Qwest, and is a member of the AISES board of directors.