State of Georgia Announces Job Training Partnership with Microsoft

Governor Sonny Perdue recently announced that Georgia and Microsoft will combine efforts in a unique, public-private partnership to provide free technology training to displaced workers.

"This partnership will provide thousands of Georgians with the education and skills required to succeed in the new economy," Governor Perdue said.

Microsoft is partnering with the Governor's Office of Workforce Development to distribute a total of 25,900 training vouchers during the next 90 days through job centers across the state.

"Our vision for Elevate America is to give Americans the technology training and certification to help them get back to work, "said Steve Ballmer, Chief Executive Officer, Microsoft.

Georgia will receive 11,500 vouchers for Microsoft Windows and Office online training, 11,500 vouchers for Microsoft Business Certification Exams, and 2,900 vouchers for advanced technical professional level online training:

Each training voucher is redeemable for free online training in Microsoft Windows, or one of the programs in the Microsoft Office suite.

Any Georgia resident may request and receive a voucher. The vouchers will be distributed through the Georgia Work Ready Web site through on-line application at www.gaworkready. o rg through participating Workforce Investment Act (WIA) One Stop Centers and select Goodwill locations.

Vouchers will be available to citizens across the state on a first-come, first-served basis today April 22, 2010.

Individuals must activate their vouchers for training and complete certification exams within the 90 day period.

For additional information regarding the Microsoft vouchers and locations where citizens can obtain a voucher in Georgia, please visit www.gaworkready.org within the "Jobseeker" portion of the site.