News Report 5

Microsoft offers computer training to unemployed
Associated Press
April 13, 2009 9:03pm EST
http://www.cnbc.com/id/30199347

Microsoft Corp. announced Monday it would be giving away more than 30,000 vouchers over the next 90 days to help unemployed people in Washington state get new computer skills. These vouchers would allow the Washington locals the ability to take Microsoft's computer classes for free, either in person or in online classes. The vouchers would also allow for these individuals to take the Microsoft certification either free or at a very low cost. "When this downturn ends, we will need more skilled workers ready to enter the job market. Microsoft's generosity will provide thousands of men and women the skills they need to work with the software that runs our businesses," Seattle Gov. Chris Gregoire said at a recent news conference.

The "Worksource" job centers around Washington began giving out the vouchers earlier this week. These vouchers are part of a new Microsoft program called Elevate America. With this program, Microsoft aims to get computer training to over 2 million Americans nationwide over the next few years. These vouchers are not only for the computer illiterate. Many people are picking up the vouchers that have college degrees as well as some knowledge on computers. The reason behind this is that companies often look for formal computer training, making these certification programs a great thing for someone to put on their resume while searching for a new career.

The training will be on Microsoft software, and will have programs ranging anywhere from basic computer training, to more advanced programs in Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc. This is a great thing during the current recession, and hopefully many people take advantage of it!