Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Keeping up with Microsoft

Photos and Story by James Hill

It’s easy to fall behind when it comes to learning new computer applications. That’s why PCC has the non-credit Computer Education option – Workplace Applications and Tools. The classes deal in-depth with Microsoft Office Suite 2007.

"Office 2007 is brand new with lots of exciting options," said Linda Harmon, instructional computer specialist in the Computer Education program. "Completing the class is proof to employers that you know Office very, very well."

Becoming an expert in workplace applications means employers can rely on staff to support the software programs most critical to the companies’ success. With in-depth training in programs like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Project, a workplace application pro can directly affect efficiency and productivity.

"Employers want people with the highest skills," Harmon said. "They can be certified within a term if they already have experience with many of Microsoft’s programs. It’s always challenging when the company changes versions, but I like change and this version is remarkable. Many people will want to change to 2007."

There are two main reasons to take workplace applications courses: to get the critical skills needed to compete for office jobs at any company, or to prepare for heightened training in information technology. The workplace application courses give students options with dynamic teaching materials, step-by-step instruction manuals and qualified instructors.

"We offer classes all the time, including a self-paced option," she said. "We have a very flexible program that suits anyone’s style of learning."

Harmon has been a leader of the program for nearly two decades. She has a bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University and a master’s degree from Portland State. A transplant from Virginia, she has shepherded the workplace applications classes for 19 years when the systems of the day were DOS and Windows 3.0.

"We offered friendly computer classes at a time when students didn’t know anything about computers and it was a fun way to introduce people to them," Harmon said.

Now, computer programs are getting bigger, better and more involved. These classes are ideal for anyone wanting to use the powerful tools available in Microsoft Office 2007 or people who work in offices who need to upgrade their computer skills such as executive administrative assistants, customer service reps, receptionists, clerks, medical secretaries and personal assistants. Students can even obtain a Microsoft Office User Specialist certificate at the end of the course via a test.

"There are people who need to learn these skills," Harmon added. "Many find it a necessary skill to survive in this business world."

For more information about non-credit training and certifications andcredit options that work toward a degree, visit the computereducation page.

Related Pages

Computer Education at PCC, Non-credit training classes, Credit computer courses and degrees, Online community education computer classes