Microsoft IT Academy (MS ITA)

Watch the MS ITA launch video here!

	Jim McMurchie
	Instructor
	206.631.7310
	jim.mcmurchie@highlineschools.org

The Microsoft Internet Academy (MS ITA) program at Puget Sound Skills Center equips graduating students with industry certification as Network Technicians. Certifications include Windows XP, 2000, Novell Net Ware, Cisco, and CompTIA A+ and N+. The course curriculum is a combination of classroom training and hands-on experiences building, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks.

Each student begins with the basics, completing (or testing out of) computer hardware, software and basic networking and scripting. From there each student decides on one or more learning paths including;
Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator plus Security, 5 courses in Microsoft Network Operating Systems (passing any one of these courses earns you the title Microsoft Certified Professional).
Cisco Certified Networking Associate, a valued industry certification in physical networking, switching and routing.
Linux Plus and Red Hat Certified Engineer, a growing part of the networking community.
Study as if you were going to live forever; live as if you were going to die tomorrow.

Jim's work experience prior to PSSC:

Hatch & Kirk, Inc. A manufacturing company where I spent 23 good years. During that time I performed many tasks from shipping and warehousing, to purchasing and inventory control and contract and project management. One day at work I was gifted with a computer and stack of manuals. The attached note read, "the previous user has quit, all of our purchasing records are on this thing somewhere, find them". Beginning there, I learned first about computers, then networks. With a teammate I designed and installed the company's first network and later linked that network to other company offices nationwide.
I believe in being certified in the content I teach. As a result I am regularly obtaining or renewing the same certifications as my students. I enjoy the added enjoyment of teaching the materials as well.

Jim's Philosophy:

Show respect to all students and expect the same.
Base our learning on current and upcoming technology.
Our industry requires at least two years training after High School, begin with that goal in mind.
Every day must include its share of fun.
A complete technical education includes life skills.

MS ITA Benefits:

College Articulation Credits
Preparation for Industry Certification Testing
Discounts on Testing
Industry Standard Equipment for Training