Welcome to the weekly update for Microsoft IT Academy.

Certified Career Day

In alignment with recent IDC research, Microsoft has created a two phased plan to help narrow the skills gap and address the findings in the IDC Report.  Phase one begins with Certified Career Day, March 12, 9:00am PST, a live, free, interactive event with industry experts, designed to give participants information on the impact of the cloud on IT recruitment and the growing importance of certification.  Register now at Certified Career Day.  Check back often to see  current information on participating panelists.  The second phase is designed to guide and encourage participants on their path to certification by emphasizing skills development and providing important exam prep materials. Information on Phase two will be released in early March.  Meanwhile, bookmark www.certifiedcareerday.com  for ongoing updates.

 ITA Monthly Webcast

The recent ITA Monthly Webcast was held on February 14rh and featured "Cloud Technology and its Impact on the Workforce."   March's webinar will feature ITA Director, Keith Loeber, who will provide best practices on how to leverage the program to "Preapre Your Students for Technology Demand in Workforce."   Register  now for the March 21 webinar.  

Share Your Microsoft IT Academy Experience

We want to hear your story.  There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing how faculty, teachers and students are using IT Academy tools to create more learning opportunities in the classroom. We’ve heard reports from classrooms around the world that  IT Academies are preparing students for higher education and the 21stcentury workplace.  Share your story by sending videos, photos, or a brief write-up with your contact information-to ITASuccessStories@microsoft.com,  we will work with you to get your story on the ITA blog. 

Other Upcoming Education Webcasts

Windows 8: Reimagined for Education

Thursday, February 28, 2013 12:00 PM PST

Windows 8 creates an experience that helps schools improve educational outcomes, brings learning to life for students, and builds 21st century skills. Join this session to see how Windows 8 is reimagined for learning and how you can use it within your institution to drive student success.

What’s New in Office 365 for Education

Thursday, March 07, 2013 1:00 PM PST

The 2013 release of Office 365 for Education includes an enhanced feature set and a reimagined user interface. Join this webinar to learn more about what’s new in the next release of Office 365.

Follow IT Academy on Twitter

Follow the  IT Academy Twitter channel  to get the latest from Microsoft IT Academy in your Twitter feed. 

Visit the IT Academy YouTube Channel

Visit the ITA YouTube channel  and learn more about IT Academy and how it empowers students and teachers through certification.