Ironwood launches IT Academy

IRONWOOD - Ironwood area students will now have the chance to graduate from Luther L. Wright with more than just a high-school diploma after the school was chosen to participate in the Microsoft IT Academy Program.

The academy allows students to take lessons on various computer software programs, including those that comprise Microsoft Office, and then complete tests to become certified as proficient in said software.

"We're committed to providing our students with the most up-to-date knowledge and skills so they can pursue higher education, and secure jobs that contribute to the statewide economy and their communities, said Ironwood Area Schools Superintendent Tim Kolesar in a statement announcing the program. "Our membership in the Microsoft IT Academy Program enables us to provide a road map to technology proficiency and industry-recognized Microsoft Certification credentials keeping pace with what today's employers are looking for a sets our students up for future success."

An increasing number of jobs require some degree of technological expertise, the statement said, and completion of these certifications has the potential to provide Ironwood students with a significant advantage in competing for these jobs.

The statement cites a 2012 study that was commissioned by Microsoft that found that the primary reasons that IT hiring managers cited for being unable to fill job openings was a lack of the necessary training and certifications.

Ironwood was one of 300 Michigan schools to be chosen to participate in the program by the state's department of education according to the statement. As one of the schools chosen to participate in the program, Ironwood receives access 500 of the tests from Microsoft this year, Kolesar explained, with an additional 500 tests provided each year the program runs.

"Microsoft is committed to empowering students and teachers around the world to reach their full potential," said Alison Cunard, the general manager of Microsoft Learning Experience in the statement. "By combining education and cutting-edge technology, the Microsoft IT Academy helps enable success and prosperity in an evolving global economy."

Students will participate in the three-year program through the school's business classes, according to Ann Wuorinen, the school's business management instructor. This first year will focus on certifications in Microsoft Office with additional lessons on more specialized programs offered in the following years, Wuorinen said.