In-Depth
MCT
What it takes to become a trainer of Microsoft Certified Professionals
The Microsoft Certified Trainer credential is the title that identifies
instructors who are certified to deliver training for Microsoft technologies
and products. MCTs typically work for Certified Technical Education Centers
(CTECs) as corporate trainers; some may also be trainers at authorized
Microsoft IT Academies worldwide.
The Benefits
You'll receive several benefits when you become an MCT:
- Industry recognition of your expertise.
- The right to use the MCT logo on business collateral.
- Exam discounts.
- Access to the private MCT Web site and the monthly MCTFlash newsletter.
- Discounts on products and services.
- The ability to purchase trainer kits for all MOC and MSDN Training
courses.
- Trainer kits for purchase for $75 each. Kits can be downloaded directly
from the Web site.
- Courseware support 7/24.
- Private MCT newsgroups on the Internet.
- Invitations to regional and national Microsoft events. These events
include various trainer-readiness events, both regional and international.
Attending these events will help you stay ahead with Microsoft technology.
- A discount in the registration fee for MCP TechMentor events. You
must take the exam in person at Prometric and VUE testing centers.
The Requirements
As of October 2001, Microsoft shifted the MCT program to a yearly
renewal program—that is, MCTs have to maintain their certifications
by paying an annual fee and obtaining continuing education requirements
and apply to become an MCT. The steps outlined for initially obtaining
the MCT are as follows:
- Obtain an premier certification: MCSE (Messaging or Security specialist
titles included), MCSD, or MCDBA.
- Attend a Microsoft Official Course or Workshop.
- Demonstrate presentation skills. This can be done by obtaining the
CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer, attending a trainer skills course
at a Microsoft-approved training center, or proving that you're a certified
instructor for Cisco, Citrix, or Novell technologies.
- Complete an MCT application and pay a fee. Fees vary by world region;
in the U.S., the fee is $400 for an independent MCT not affiliated with
a CTEC.
Once you've obtained the MCT, renewing requires some maintenance steps
on a yearly basis. Here are the steps for those who plan to retain the
MCT:
- Maintain your MCSE, MCSD, or MCDBA.
- Deliver 80 hours of Microsoft Official Learning courses.
- Earn Continuing Education Credits; these can be satisfied by attending
Microsot-approved conferences and training worldwide.
MCT 2004, the current program year, runs from October 1, 2003 to September
31, 2004, with applications being accepted until August 30, 2004. MCT
2005 will begin October 1, 2004.
MCT Inactive Status
MCTs who want to retain the title but will not be teaching or attending
events to fulfill continuing education requirements prior to the renewal
period can apply for inactive status. Inactive status allows for more
time to renew. Details on obtaining inactive status can be found in the
official MCT Program Guide on Microsoft's site.