Gates Reaffirms Microsoft’s Commitment to IT Training at Community Colleges

In his visit to Milwaukee today, Gates announced that Microsoft would donate software, funding for subscriptions to on-line databases and guidance in developing materials related to the information technology (IT) field. Toshiba will donate 20 laptops to the program for students to use while they are enrolled.

“Community colleges like MATC are recognizing the needs of their local communities and developing innovative programs to meet the challenge,” said Gates. “This program will help students become more proficient in taking advantage of the incredible array of online resources, so they can make smarter and better business decisions for their employers.”

The new Marketing Information Analyst program, will train students for careers in data collection, analysis, and application of information for marketing management decisions. The program, which students can take over the Internet, will lead to an Associate Degree, Marketing Information Analyst. This innovative effort will enable students who are location-bound — single-heads of households, the physically disabled and distance learners — to access the same program that is offered on campus.

“As technology continues to change and evolve, we are challenged to expand the method of delivery we use to provide learning opportunities to all students in our programs,” said Dr. John Birkholz, President of MATC. “We are pleased to offer a program that meets the needs of our special needs students. We feel that by combining technology with core communication and information skills we can provide students with the skills to meet the needs of area employers.”

In addition to opening this new curriculum, MATC will join 15 other technical colleges in the Wisconsin Technical System as a Microsoft Authorized Academic Training Provider. This will expand the programs currently offered in the Computer Instructional Service division to include classes that are needed to become a Microsoft Certified Professional.

Milwaukee Area Technical College is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive two-year technical colleges. With four major campuses in Mequon, Oak Creek, West Allis and its flagship campus in downtown Milwaukee. MATC serves over 60,000 students annually through nearly 100 associate degree and technical diploma programs. The college also serves an adult high school population, has numerous educational partnerships with area businesses and secondary schools, and offers many of its 4,000 courses through alternative delivery systems such as the Internet and via College of Air broadcasts.

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