BVSJ and Microsoft collaborate to offer tech skills training for veterans in transition

Black Veterans for Social Justice (BVSJ), a Brooklyn-based nonprofit supporting veterans, has partnered with Microsoft to provide technology training for over 5,000 veterans. 

The project, part of Microsoft’s Nonprofit Tech Acceleration for Black and African American Communities, equips veterans with key digital skills that are increasingly valuable in the tech job market.

The collaboration will offer both foundational and advanced training in fields such as cybersecurity, coding, artificial intelligence (AI), and game development, helping veterans prepare for tech-oriented careers.

 Darrell Booker, Corporate Affairs Specialist at Microsoft, stated:

“Our veterans are vital to our job force and increasingly proven to be ideal for the technology sector. Therefore, I’m excited that Microsoft is supporting their upskilling through our series of training designed at preparing veterans for careers in AI, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and gaming.”

Starting in December 2024, Microsoft will host bi-weekly virtual training sessions tailored to meet veterans’ needs. To align training with participants’ career interests, BVSJ plans to survey veterans on relevant skills, ensuring the curriculum is both targeted and practical. This structure aims to empower veterans with skills suited for the demands of the tech industry.

An added feature of this program is a pathway for veterans to apply to Microsoft’s Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA), an advanced program that provides further training for tech careers. Applications for MSSA will be accepted from February 17 to March 3, 2025, and the program is set to run from July to October 2025.

Jay Ellis, Board Chair Emeritus at BVSJ, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:

“Our collaboration with Microsoft continues our shared commitment to advancing equity through meaningful skills development, while opening new doors for veterans looking to transition or advance in tech careers.

“We’re excited to kick off this program and look forward to launching these training sessions in December.”

The new partnership reinforces BVSJ’s mission to support veterans as they transition to civilian life, providing them with resources to succeed in fields like technology. Additional details about this initiative will be presented at the Veterans Everyday Empowerment Summit.