January 26, 2012 | 8:53 AM | By

Training D.C. Residents for Tech Jobs

The digital divide in the District affects more than just Internet access. It also impacts job prospects. Many jobs require computer skills. But a number of companies direct job applicants to apply online, even if the jobs themselves don’t require computer skills. That’s a particular challenge in communities where people have limited access and experience with computers.

Microsoft will begin a program this spring to provide tech training to D.C. students, teachers and the unemployed. WAMU 88.5′s Patrick Madden reports that exact details, including how many people will benefit from the program, haven’t been released yet.


Microsoft has a struck a deal with the District to help train residents and students for jobs in technology. The city is calling it a Digital Alliance; Microsoft says it will help train out-of-work residents, provide teaching and technological resources to schools, and award $100,000-worth of support and training to 10 local businesses.

Read more at: wamu.org