All About Microsoft Certifications

Randy Muller

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Elevate America: A Skills Stimulus Program

By Randy Muller on Mon, 02/23/09 - 12:03pm.

This was just announced - I think that this is a fantastic program - a chance for people to learn new skills and find a job to support themselves and their families!

Pamela Passman, Microsoft's Corporate Vice President for Global Corporate Affairs, announced a new initiative yesterday:

Elevate America will provide unemployed American workers with immediate access to free and low-cost tools and training designed to build critical job skills needed in today’s economy.

Microsoft Learning will provide one million training and certification vouchers to help individuals acquire and hone skills, differentiate themselves, and get a job. Additionally, all Americans can now access a new online resource to find information and resources that will help them obtain necessary technical skills for jobs today and in the future. Participating state and local governments can also choose from a selection of offerings to make available to their citizens through designated partners. Key Microsoft Learning components of Elevate America include:

Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
Basic level information technology training resources through Digital Literacy and Microsoft Unlimited Potential
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 ITAcademy program participating institutions
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