Free computer courses online for spouses Published July 23, 2007 By Dr. Jill Fuson 48 Fighter Wing Public Affairs RAF LAKENHEATH, England -- Thanks to an Air Force Aid 2007 Educational Grant, the Airmen and Family Readiness Center is offering Air Force spouses free virtual computerized training. These courses allow military spouses to acquire beginning to advanced computerized skills to enhance their career opportunities. Through Skillsoft, an international producer and distributor of interactive server-based solutions, there are currently 250 unaccredited courses available. The only draw-back is there are limited spaces available. The program includes RAFs Lakenheath, Mildenhall, Alconbury, Menwith Hill in England and Lajes Field in Turkey where 100 slots were disseminated amongst the bases. The grant is operational until April 2008. "I am familiar with the basic software such as Word and Excel but wanted to explore other programs. I recently completed Introduction to Publisher and have already utilized the knowledge by creating two flyers for work," said Amy Smith, spouse of Tech. Sgt. George Smith, 373rd Training Squadron. "The classes are very user friendly and convenient. You can go at your own pace and from any location that has access to the internet." Kari Hurlburt, Community Readiness Consultant at the AFRC, creator of the grant, realized active duty military members have access to Skillsoft courses and petitioned slots for spouses of military members who are located overseas. "Spouses are at a disadvantage when stationed overseas because the job market is limited. These courses are available to keep job skills current and introduce new skills," said Mrs. Hurlburt. Mrs. Hurlburt encourages spouses of military members to participate in these courses. "The courses include introductory computer bases courses, digital illustration and networking. At the end of each course, a certificate can be printed out for your portfolio," said Mrs. Hurlburt. Interested spouses can take a tour of the possibilities at http://www.skillsoft.com/infocenter/demo/skillport-intro.html For more information, contact Mrs. Hurlburt at 226-3847.