For Release 11 a.m. EDT
February 9, 2005

New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville Attains
Gold Certified Partner Status
In Microsoft Partner Program
New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville Further Distinguishes Itself by
Earning a Microsoft Competency
In Learning Solutions

Knoxville, TN — February 9, 2005 — New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville, today announced it has attained Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program with a competency in Learning Solutions, recognizing New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville’s expertise and total impact in the technology marketplace. As a Gold Certified partner, New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville has demonstrated expertise with Microsoft technologies and proven ability to meet customers’ needs. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners receive a rich set of benefits, including access, training and support, giving them a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

“We are extremely pleased to have attained Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program. This allows us to clearly promote our expertise and relationship with Microsoft to our customers,” said Glenn Frazier, Owner. “The benefits provided through our Gold Certified status will allow us to continue to enhance the learning offerings that we provide for customers.”

“Customers are looking for partner companies that can bridge the gap between their business demands and technology capabilities. They need to trust in someone that can act as an expert adviser for their long-term strategic technology plans. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners, which have certified expertise and direct training and support from Microsoft, can build a positive customer experience with our technologies,” said Allison Watson, vice president of the Worldwide Partner Sales and Marketing Group at Microsoft Corp. “Today, Microsoft recognizes New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville as a new Microsoft Gold Certified Partner for demonstrating its expertise in providing customer satisfaction with Microsoft products and technology.”

As one of the requirements for attaining Gold Certified Status, New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville had to declare a Microsoft Competency. Microsoft Competencies are designed to help differentiate a partner’s capabilities with specific Microsoft technologies to customers looking for a particular type of solution. Each competency has a unique set of requirements and benefits, formulated to accurately represent the specific skills and services that partners bring to the technology industry.

Microsoft Partners with the Learning Solutions Competency specialize in delivering high-end technical learning solutions to their customers. Earning this Competency identifies members of Microsoft’s premier commercial training and delivery channel, making it easier to expand the scope of services and market potential. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners with the Learning Solutions Competency deliver a range of information technology and developer training services based on Microsoft technology.

“Our industry partners help deliver learning solutions that integrate software, skills, services and support to improve the overall customer experience,” said Lutz Ziob, general manager for Microsoft Learning. “The Learning Solutions Competency ensures that customers receive high-quality, consultative IT skills and technology solutions from industry experts.”

The Microsoft Partner Program was launched in December 2003 and represents Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to the success of partners worldwide. The program offers a single, integrated partnering framework that recognizes partner expertise, rewards the total impact that partners have in the technology marketplace, and delivers more value to help partners’ businesses be successful.

New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville is part of the New Horizons network, named the world’s largest independent IT training company by IDC in 2003. New Horizons has been part of the Knoxville Community since 1979 helping thousands of people each year start, change to, or enhance their careers in Information Technology with the widest selection of computer training. We offer computer training and business skills training for business, government, organizations and individuals. Our computer training solutions are available in multiple formats including Classroom Instructor-led, eLearning, and OnDemand Mentored Self-Paced Training. For more information, visit www.nhknoxville.com.

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For more information, contact:
Glenn Frazier
New Horizons Computer Learning Center of Knoxville
(865) 692-0113
gfrazier@nhknoxville.com