Microsoft Corp. has announced a new initiative called Elevate America, which is intended to provide up to 2 million people over the next three years with the technology training needed to succeed in the 21st century economy.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Washington, Florida and New York.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, helps individuals understand what types of technical skills they need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow and resources to help acquire these skills. The Web site provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
In order to provide a broader range of training programs and certification exams, Microsoft also will partner with state and local governments to make resources available to citizens.
In a press release, Gov. Chris Gregoire stated, “At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine. Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft’s leadership on education and work force development — issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents.”
More than half of today’s jobs require some technology skills and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic estimates that number will reach 77 percent in the next decade.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams. Utilization requires and Internet connection and Internet connection fees may apply.
This comprehensive offering also includes the following:
• Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training.
• Basic-level information technology training resources through Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula.
• Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and instructor-led, plus selected certification exams.
• Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft.
• Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business certification.
• Grants of cash and software to community partners to build in-classroom training capacity.
• Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the Microsoft IT Academy program.
• Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training and resources that position them for success in the economy today and tomorrow.
