Just wondering if any readers have been able to take advantage of some of the free technology training offered through Microsoft's Elevate America program.
Through the initiative, which was launched more than a year ago, Microsoft is making one million online training and certification vouchers available for free for the unemployed residents of several U.S. states.
Although some of the vouchers are for basic technology skills, such as using the Internet, the Windows Vista operating system and Microsoft Office, some higher-level courses are being offered for IT professionals who want to upgrade their skills in areas such as:
- web development;
- database management;
- server administration.
So have any of you gone through any of this training? And if so, how helpful has it been in terms of helping you differentiate yourself in your tech job search?
Although I want to take part in the Elevate America program, no vouchers are available in my area. For unknown reasons, Microsoft has only selected a few states for inclusion. My state, FL, has one of the highest unemployment rates in the US, but the Elevate America program is only available to residents of Miami and Jacksonville area. WTH Microsoft!