Microsoft Certification is developing a new type of hands-on certification that will validate design and deep technical skills within a particular technology area, code-named “Series 3.”  The first area they are targeting is data management using Microsoft SQL Server.  As this is your specialty, we are hoping you or someone you know will be willing to participate in a pilot of the certification testing experience.   A description of the type of person they are looking for is attached.

Each participant will need to commit to being available for a 5 hour session.  The TBD locations will be set based on the locations of participants, and at least one may take place in Europe.  They can provide reasonable T&E and a thank-you gift for each participant. 

Pilot tests will take place as follows: 

Week of February 19, in Redmond
Week of March 19, location TBD
Week of April 2, location TBD
Week of April 16, location TBD
Week of May 14, location TBD

PLEASE NOTE:  The results from the first two pilots will not count toward possible certification – we need information from them in order to set the bar appropriately.  If we have sufficient participation in the first two pilots, then results from the remaining pilots will count toward possible certification.

If you or someone you know would like to take advantage of this opportunity, please send contact information to Deborah Kerman as soon as possible.  Each person nominated will need to participate in a phone screening (15-20 minutes) to make sure they are appropriate for the pilot; then we will schedule them.

Thanks again for your interest in the Microsoft certification program.