Free computer training for veterans and spouses
Veterans and their spouses can get free online training in computer skills through Microsoft’s
Elevate America’s Veterans program, in partnership with WorkSource Seattle-King County. You can build skills in selected Microsoft technologies, plus
earn an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates your skills to employers. In many cases, you can also get a voucher to save money on taking the certification exam.
What is it?
E-learning is:
- Online, self-paced learning (no instructor)
- Conducted via any internet-connected computer
- Accessible from multiple locations--work through the training wherever you happen to be
- Accessible any time within 12 months of activation date
Do I qualify?
To receive a voucher/access code, you must be a King County resident and a military veteran or veteran’s spouse (currently married).
Not a veteran? Outside King County? You can still access many of Microsoft's free online IT courses through the Employment Security Department. Learn more...
What training is available?
You can choose from three different levels:
Basic learning: If you're a beginner when it comes to computers, start here. Microsoft's Digital Literacy program covers the very basics of using a mouse up to getting started with email, Microsoft Office programs and the internet. Plus, it is available in multiple languages. No voucher is necessary for Digital Literacy. Just go to www.microsoft.com/digitalliteracy.
Intermediate level: You'll learn the essentials of Windows 7 and Office 2010. Choose from beginner, intermediate and advanced courses in Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
Advanced/IT pro level: These technical training courses are for IT professionals. They lead to certifications in servers, networks, database development and more.
Testing and exams: After you complete one of the above e-Learning courses, you can request a voucher for the test prep course and then for the certification exam. These will be issued by the WorkSource tech trainer. The voucher will cover most of the cost of the exam; however, the testing sites (not WorkSource) may charge a fee.
What technology do I need to take the training?
For intermediate level Windows & Office e-learning, you will need:
- The same version of software on your computer as the training so that you can complete the practice exercises. For example, Office 2010 e-learning requires Office 2010 software.
- A PC computer (recommended for best performance) with downloads enabled
- Internet Explorer (recommended for best performance)
If you don't have the software or your own PC, here are some options:
How do I get a training voucher/access code?
Basic learning: No voucher is necessary for Digital Literacy. Just go to www.microsoft.com/digitalliteracy.
Intermediate and Advanced/IT Pro level: Vouchers will be available starting Monday, Nov. 14, at all WorkSource Seattle-King County locations.
STEPS TO GETTING A VOUCHER:
1. Please read these instructions so that you bring with you everything you need to register for a voucher/access code.
2. Read carefully through the training descriptions to help you decide which training is right for you.
3. Documents you will need:
Voucher Request Form. You can fill it out at home and bring it in, or pick one up when you come to WorkSource. It requires your Social Security number, address, email and other personal information. PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL THE FORM TO WORKSOURCE. Download the form (PDF document)...
Documentation of military service or spouse status. You must bring a DD214 form, letter from the Veterans Administration, or Gold Card to show that you are a military veteran. Spouse of a veteran: If you are a veteran's spouse, you must complete a certification form (again, either fill out at home and bring with you, or pick one up at WorkSource. It must be notarized. WorkSource staff can notarize it when you come in. Download the form (PDF document)...
4. Come to any WorkSource Seattle-King County site (here's a list of locations) and tell the person at the front desk that you are a veteran and would like a Microsoft/Elevate America training voucher.
5. Staff will review your documents to make sure they are complete. You will receive your training voucher/access code within the day via an email with instructions.
What do I do with my access code?
Your access code will be emailed along with instructions and links, or you can use the following.
Intermediate level (Microsoft Windows or Office): Click here
Advanced/IT Pro level: Click here
Alternatively: In an internet browser, go to the Microsoft Elevate America veterans voucher page at www.microsoft.com/veteransvouchers. Look for "Activate my eLearning voucher" about halfway down the page and choose "Redeem my free voucher" for either Microsoft Windows/Office or Technical Professional.
