Microsoft has debuted a new initiative designed to provide free and low-cost tools and resources set up to help workers elevate their job skills. Available exclusively for the U.S., the Elevate America program aims to reach no less than 2 million people with technology training over the course of the next three years. Microsoft emphasized the strong connection between developing IT skills and succeeding in the 21st-century economy. The first phase of the initiative is already live, as the Redmond company introduced the Elevate America website.

“Millions of Americans don’t have the technology skills needed in today’s economy. Through Elevate America, we want to help workers get the skills they need to succeed,” said Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs. “We are also providing a full range of work force development resources for state and local governments so they can offer specialized training for their workers.”

The Microsoft Elevate America website will help people interested in building a foundation of basic IT skills in order to start their careers. At the same time, the resources and tools available are designed to help workers expand their technology skills, and access Microsoft Certifications in order to build upon their career. Still, this is just the first step in Microsoft’s vision. The software giant has also announced partnerships with local governments across the U.S., including Florida, New York and Washington, to bring Elevate America to residents.

“At the federal, state and local level, leaders are working together to help start the engine of economic growth. The private sector provides much of the spark needed to jump-start that engine,” Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire said. “Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft’s leadership on education and work force development — issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens. Washington state is pleased to be one of the first states to partner with Microsoft to provide Elevate America to our residents.” he continued.