Microsoft Certification Turns 20 Today

Today, Microsoft celebrates 20 years of Microsoft Certification. With a focus on bringing change to people’s work and to their lives, the Redmond-based company recognizes over 7 million people all around the world who are certified on Microsoft technology.

Microsoft also announced a yearlong tribute, called “20 Years|20 Ways,” which is meant to provide 20 means for technology professionals to support, mentor and guide successors regarding the importance of training and certification.

“It’s humbling to be a part of what these people have done and the impact they have had on the world,” said Lutz Ziob, general manager of Microsoft Learning (MSL), which oversees Microsoft’s certification and training programs.

“We want to simply pause for a moment and say thank you for what they have done and to encourage the next generation of IT pros and developers to do the same.”

20 Years|20 Ways is meant to become another means for Microsoft to celebrate how far its certification program has come. Additional info on the program is available on Microsoft’s website.

The company is set to encourage established IT pros and developers to grow their careers and become examples for the next generation. Aspiring IT professionals all around the world can win a lot through Microsoft’s program.

The software giant plans on donating up to 5,000 entry-level Microsoft Technology Associate certification exams and training.

“Microsoft will donate the exams through organizations like NetHope Academy and Microsoft IT Academy, which will ensure that they are awarded to applicants who could not otherwise afford to take them,” the company explaines.

The Certification program kicked off in 1992. Today, it is one of the largest and most diverse certification communities in the world.

People who earn Microsoft certifications are recognized by employers and peers as being experts in that respective field.

A Microsoft certification results in faster promotions and higher pay, while also offering a great level of confidence to the certified person.

“By earning a certification from Microsoft in 2012, a person validates relevant skills through a credential that employers worldwide respect, connects with a global community, and gains access to valuable career-building tools and training,” Microsoft notes.