Elevate America's Veterans

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 Microsoft technologies, plus earn a certification that demonstrates your skills to employers. In many cases, you can also save money on the certification exam.

What is it?

Microsoft e-learning lets you learn online--anywhere, at your own pace.

• Access from any internet-connected computer
• Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule
• Use any time within 12 months of activation
• No instructor--but help is available! See Contact, below)

Do I qualify?

You must be a King or Pierce County resident and a military veteran or veteran’s spouse.

Not a veteran? Outside King/Pierce County? You can still access many of Microsoft's free online IT courses through the Employment Security Department. Learn more...

What training is available?

When you register, you'll get an access code for the training of your choice. There are two levels of training:

1. Intermediate: Windows 7 and Office 2010
2. Advanced/IT Pro: These technical training courses are for IT professionals.

See all the courses here...

Basic learning: If you're an absolute beginner when it comes to computers, start here: www.microsoft.com/digitalliteracy.

How do I sign up?

When you register, you'll get an access code for the training of your choice.

Here's how to get started:

1. Read carefully through the training descriptions to help you decide which training is right for you.

• Know what you want? Visit any WorkSource center or affiliate (not Connection site) with the documents below.
• Need advice before you decide? Contact Reginald Griffin, the WorkSource veterans technology trainer. See Contact, below.

2. Documents you will need:

Training 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 OR FAX 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. 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)...

3. Bring your documents to a WorkSource Seattle-King County center or affiliate 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/access code.

4. Staff will review your documents and register you. You will receive your access code within the day via an email with instructions.

What do I do with my access code?

You'll get a link (try it here) and all the instructions to access the training when WorkSource emails you your access code.

Contact:

The WorkSource veterans technology trainer is available to help you choose the training that is best for you, use your voucher, work through the courses and get your certification. He also offers computer classes and open lab time at WorkSource Renton.

Reginald Griffin, EA Vets Technology Trainer
reginald.griffin@kingcounty.gov
(206) 205-3641
WorkSource Renton
8 a.m.— 5 p.m.