Microsoft wants to boost tech training

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Microsoft aims to provide technology skills training to two million people over the next two years, as part of its Elevate America scheme.

The economy-boosting plan has two parts. The first is a new website which details what skills are needed for different tech-related jobs, as well as free online training programmes, such as how to use email in addition to more advanced ones on specific Microsoft applications. This is available in the UK, as it is entirely online.

The second aspect of Elevate America is a partnership with governments in the US states of Florida, New York and Washington, which will see training and certification exams offered to local people, with financial and software grants given to spur course creation.

As part of this, Microsoft is also giving away one million free e-courses spanning business and technology subjects – although much of the advanced training appears to be entirely Microsoft-centric, focusing on specific Microsoft certifications.

“We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialised training for their workers,” said Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, in a statement.

“Millions of Americans don’t have the technology skills needed in today’s economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed,” she added.

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