The Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, Microsoft Corporation and WorkSource partnered to bring Microsoft’s free, versatile computer-training courses to more than 5,000 WorkSource customers, while paving the way for the program’s rollout nationwide.

Microsoft designed its Unlimited Potential computer training courses to be donated to community centers for the benefit of people whose lack of computer skills is a barrier to work or self-sufficiency. When the WDC heard that the company was interested in offering the courses in one-stop systems (such as WorkSource), we offered to test Unlimited Potential in the company’s own back yard: the WorkSource system in Washington state.

About the Classes

The eight Unlimited Potential courses, which are available in nine languages, include computer basics, Internet, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, web design and digital media. They can be customized and duplicated in any way with no licensing fees or restrictions, giving instructors great flexibility. Lessons may be taught in a classroom setting, or learners can study and practice at their own pace. Unlimited Potential also includes Digital Literacy, a five-course curriculum for learners with little or no computer experience. Connect to computer classes at WorkSource...

The Partnership

Beginning in 2005, Microsoft contributed roughly $440,000 in student and instructor manuals, software and software upgrades for some 700 PCs, and project management and support. The WDC of Seattle-King County coordinated the program through the 11 other WDCs in the state, distributing software and curriculum to the 21 pilot sites and working with instructors and tech support staff. WorkSource partners including WIA providers, the state Employment Security Department and community colleges contributed many hours of staff time and expertise.

In February 2006, thanks to the success of the pilot, Microsoft announced its donation of $3.5 million in cash and software to implement Unlimited Potential in one-stop centers across the U.S., beginning with $110,000 grants to nine cities, including Seattle. The funds allowed WorkSource to hire a teacher and an aide for the classes.

In September 2007, Microsoft generously committed $318,000 to fund UP classes in King County for two years. These funds cover 1.5 instructors in the system, WDC staff coordination, and fund development activities to find means to support the project into the future.

The Impact

From July 2005 through the present, at least 5,000 WorkSource customers in Washington state have upgraded their computer skills through the Unlimited Potential courses. Many are laid-off workers over age 55 whose lack of computer skills has been a serious barrier to employment. The WorkSource system in Washington state gained free, customizable computer-training courses to meet the growing need for computer skills and computer literacy training in the workforce. The donated software upgrades and curricula donated will enable WorkSource to offer Unlimited Potential to customers for years to come.