- Document formatting and page layout
- Styles, tables and references
- Templates and design elements
- Collaboration and accessibility tools
- Preparation for the MOS Word Associate certification exam
Build the office skills employers are looking for.
If you have basic computer skills and want to prepare for an office-based career, Intermediate Office Skills Training can help you take the next step.
This 10-week hybrid program combines online learning with weekly in-person instruction. You will strengthen your Microsoft Word and Excel skills, learn how to work effectively in a professional environment, and prepare for Microsoft Office Specialist certification exams.
What makes this program a great next step?
- Build intermediate Microsoft Word and Excel skills
- Prepare for Microsoft Office Specialist certifications
- Learn at your own pace with weekly instructor support
- Strengthen your communication and customer service skills
- Receive help preparing for your job search
- Training is completely tuition-free
Program Details
- Upcoming Start Dates: October 5, 2026; January 20, 2027; April 12, 2027; and July 12, 2027
- Cost: Tuition-free
- Length: 10 weeks
- Hybrid Schedule: In-Person on Mondays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Online Coursework approximately eight hours per week, completed independently
- Additional Support: Monday through Thursday, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., by appointment
- Locations: Tacoma, Longview, South Lacey and Union Gap Work Opportunity Centers
- Age Requirement: Must be 18 or older
What You'll Learn
- Data entry and worksheet formatting
- Formulas and functions, including SUMIF, COUNTIF and XLOOKUP
- Tables and data validation
- Charts, graphs and conditional formatting
- Preparation for the MOS Excel Associate certification exam
- Cloud-based storage and file management
- Organizing documents across platforms
- Using OneDrive and Microsoft 365
- Improving keyboarding speed and accuracy
- Time management and accountability
- Professional communication and email etiquette
- Customer service
- Teamwork and initiative
- Workplace professionalism
- Foundational leadership skills
- Using LinkedIn, Indeed and other job-search platforms
- Adding certifications and digital badges to your resume
- Practicing interview skills
- Preparing for Microsoft Office Specialist exams
- Identifying additional training and employment opportunities
Certification Preparation
Students use Skillsoft Percipio and GMetrix to prepare for Microsoft Office Specialist Certification exams in Word and Excel.
During the program, students will:
- Complete Word and Excel learning modules
- Take at least three GMetrix practice exams for each application
- Receive certification-readiness support from Goodwill instructors
- Be scheduled for at least one MOS certification exam attempt
- Learn how to feature certifications and digital badges on resumes and LinkedIn
Who Is Eligible?
This intermediate program is designed for students who:
- Have basic computer skills
- Have career goals related to office or customer service work
- Can complete online coursework independently
- Have access to an internet-connected desktop or laptop
- Can attend the weekly in-person class
- Complete a Vocational Skills Assessment during enrollment
A Goodwill team member will review your computer skills, career goals and readiness for hybrid learning to make sure the program is the right fit.
Why Take This Course?
Build the digital and professional skills needed for today’s office jobs. Through flexible online learning, weekly instructor support and hands-on practice, you’ll strengthen your Microsoft Word and Excel skills, prepare for industry-recognized certifications and gain confidence for your next career opportunity.
Have additional questions? Email the Career Hub at careerhub@goodwillwa.org, call 253-573-6508 or complete the form below.