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Microsoft Empowers Students and Professionals with Top-Quality Training in Technical Development and Support

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Microsoft, the world's largest software company, has taken a significant step to address the growing demand for skilled technology support professionals. According to a survey, more than 35,000 positions are currently available across Microsoft Solution Provider companies alone, seeking computer professionals certified to install, service, and support information systems built with Microsoft products. To bridge this skills gap, Microsoft has enhanced its Authorized Academic Training Program (AATP), making it easier for educators and schools to deliver leading-edge technical training. The AATP curriculum prepares students for Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exams, validating their proficiency in developing, supporting, and integrating computing systems that use Microsoft software.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft's survey indicates that over 35,000 positions are available for computer professionals certified to install, service, and support information systems built with Microsoft products.
  • The Microsoft Authorized Academic Training Program (AATP) provides a pathway for students to become Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCPs), a highly marketable industry designation.
  • The AATP curriculum is vocationally oriented, preparing students to develop, support, and integrate computing systems using Microsoft software, such as Visual Basic, Visual C++, Windows NT, and Windows 95.
  • The program has been fine-tuned to attract new schools and teachers, offering more courseware options, flexible course design, and increased communication with Microsoft and AATP members.
  • The California Community College System has joined the AATP, training 300 teachers to teach AATP courses this winter and spring, with an expected 6,000 MCPs produced this year.
  • The program has been successful in providing students with job opportunities, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 for MCPs with experience.
  • Teton County in Wyoming will offer AATP training to high school students as a groundbreaking model, teaching computing skills and qualifying graduates for real jobs in the business world.
  • Microsoft and its partners are working to provide students with the skills and training they need to succeed in the technology industry.

Statistics:

  • More than 35,000 positions are available for computer professionals certified to install, service, and support information systems built with Microsoft products.
  • The California Community College System is training 300 teachers to teach AATP courses this winter and spring, with an expected 6,000 MCPs produced this year.
  • Salaries for MCPs range from $40,000 to $80,000 for those with experience.
  • Microsoft Solution Providers are currently hiring MCPs with the skills and training needed to work in the technology industry.

Sources:

  • Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq-NNM: MSFT)
  • "Microsoft Corp. Introduces Enhanced Authorized Academic Training Program to Help Fill High-Paying Technical Jobs" (PRNewswire, November 20, 1995)
  • The Microsoft Network
  • Microsoft Authorized Academic Training Program (AATP) brochure
  • The Road Map to Education and Certification

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