Elevate America. That’s what Microsoft is trying to do with a new initiative that aims to provide up to two million people over the next three years with the technology training needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.
Elevate America is Microsoft’s way of providing support in response to the economic crisis. It’s a public-private partnership that offers a Web site to help individuals understand the types of technical skills required for available jobs and the resources to help acquire these skills, including grants and vouchers.
“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,” said Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs. “We are also providing a full range of workforce development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers.”
A Public-Private Partnership
The Elevate America Web site offers access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail, and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.
Taking it a step further, Microsoft is also partnering with state and local governments, which in turn will make these resources available to their citizens. Florida, New York and Washington are the first states to provide Elevate America to their residents.
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist said the success of the Elevate Miami program in his state is proof that public-private partnerships can work and benefit citizens. “We have worked with Microsoft for years in Miami to bring technology training to underserved populations,” he said. “Now, with Elevate America, we have the opportunity to bring these important skills to even more people, at a time when they are needed more than ever.”
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