Microsoft Aims To Help Vets
Microsoft announced Monday the launch of a new program aimed at providing U.S. veterans and their spouses with the training they need to transition to 21st century civilian jobs.
The firm said it would contribute a total of $8 million in cash and software over the next two years for programs that will provide veterans leaving the military for the civilian workforce and their spouses with skills training, job placement, career counseling and other support services such as childcare, transportation and housing. Among the groups eligible to apply for Microsoft's support include service organizations, work force agencies, community colleges and other nonprofit organizations. The first group to join the initiative is Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Microsoft said in a statement.
The Elevate America's Veterans program is modeled after Microsoft's Elevate America program launched in February 2009, which partnered with states to provide people with technology skills training, industry-recognized certifications and work force readiness tools to help Americans prepare for today's jobs. Twelve states have signed up for the program so far and others have until March 31 to join.
"Our servicemen and women are amazing leaders, but to be able to compete in the tough job market when they return from duty, many of them need access to technology training," Microsoft Corporate Vice President Pamela Passman said in a statement. Nearly 185,000 Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans are unemployed - a rate that is 20 percent higher than the overall unemployment rate for nonveterans, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
"I believe this effort will go a long way to helping [veterans] succeed in the 21st century work force," Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Chairman Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii, a World War II veteran, said in the statement. "I hope Microsoft's commitment will inspire all employers across the country to give back to veterans."
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