JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas –
A new chapter in cooperation between industry and the military unfolded at Joint Base San Antonio March 23, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony welcoming the new Microsoft Software & Systems Academy, or MSSA.
Leaders from the military, corporate and academic fields gathered at the JBSA-Fort Sam Houston Military & Family Readiness Center to highlight the opening of the new training center designed to prepare service members for jobs in the civilian information technology sector.
Located at nearby JBSA-Randolph, the academy will provide service members who are leaving the military with IT-related training and certifications.
MSSA is one of the few industry programs that trains active-duty U.S. service members for technology jobs and is a cornerstone for the Department of Defense Skillbridge Program, which links transitioning service members with civilian training programs. The MSSA venture includes Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, or ERAU, as the primary learning partner.
The MSSA provides a 19-week (or two nine-week terms) training course for high-demand careers in cloud development, cloud administration, cybersecurity administration or database and business intelligence administration, provides transitioning service members and veterans with critical career skills required for today’s growing technology industry.
“You will be learning skills you can leverage for a lifetime,” Brig. Gen. Heather Pringle, commander of the 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio, said to students in attendance. “This is an all-in effort, and we have great support from state and local governments, as well as all our JBSA mission partners. I can’t wait to see what you will accomplish.”
“Today is a milestone achievement for Microsoft and Joint Base San Antonio,” said Lori Ham, Microsoft sales director, U.S. South Central Education. “It is a reflection of Microsoft’s commitment to hire veterans and transitioning service members. We understand the skills and qualities veterans bring. Leadership is in your blood.”
“The world of IT is wide open,” said Dr. John Watret, chancellor of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide. “We are committed to your success. The transition from military to civilian life is an important stage in your life and the knowledge and skills you receive will prepare you well for the challenges ahead.”
“A lot of people call San Antonio the ‘new Silicon Valley,’” said Col. David Raugh, commander, 502nd Force Support Group. “There is already a great cyber community here. These students will be able to leverage this multi-faceted training into high-paying positions when they are done.”