ONLC launches two-day Microsoft Express training courses

ONLC Training has launched Microsoft Express, a series of two-day, instructor-led courses focused on Microsoft AI, cloud, security, and data skills. The programme is designed to help learners prepare for Microsoft certification.

The courses target professionals seeking shorter training options than the four- or five-day formats commonly used for certification study. They combine instructor teaching with hands-on labs to provide practical experience, while leaving the rest of the certification preparation to self-paced study.

Each class is delivered online and covers selected parts of Microsoft's official curriculum. Participants also receive guidance on the remaining material, along with access to Microsoft Learn modules and certification exam preparation resources, so they can continue studying after the two-day course.

Each course is priced at USD $995. ONLC is offering the programme as scheduled public classes for individual learners and as private training for employers that want to train teams or departments.

Course areas

The initial Microsoft Express line-up covers six areas ONLC identified as high-demand disciplines: AI agent development with Microsoft Copilot Studio, Azure AI cloud development, AI and cloud security, security operations, Microsoft Fabric analytics, and Microsoft 365 AI administration.

Each of the six courses is aligned with a Microsoft certification, including some newer certification routes. The courses are intended to complement, not replace, Microsoft's existing learning paths.

The launch reflects continued demand for shorter forms of technical training as companies introduce AI tools across more business functions and staff balance learning with full-time work. Short-format courses have become a common way for training providers to reach working professionals who want recognised qualifications without taking a full week away from their jobs.

Andy Williamson, Chief Executive Officer and Director of AI Strategy at ONLC, said the programme was designed around that constraint. "Many professionals want to earn Microsoft certifications, but finding an entire workweek for training isn't always realistic," Williamson said.

He added that the condensed structure is intended to cover the main practical elements of the curriculum first. "Microsoft Express gives people the opportunity to learn the most valuable parts of the official curriculum in just two days, gain practical experience through hands-on labs, and continue preparing for certification at their own pace," Williamson said.

Flexible format

All Microsoft Express courses are taught remotely by instructors, allowing participants to join from their workplace. The format also gives employers the option of organising private sessions tailored to internal teams rather than sending staff to standard public courses.

ONLC has operated in IT and business skills training for more than 40 years and serves individuals and organisations across North America. Its broader catalogue includes courses in Microsoft software, AI, cyber security, cloud computing, data analytics, business applications, and professional development.

The training market has seen growing interest in AI-related instruction as businesses seek to build in-house skills in areas such as automation, security governance, and data analysis. Microsoft's AI products, including Copilot tools, have become a significant area of employer interest, creating demand for courses that combine product familiarity with exam preparation.

Williamson said the aim was to focus as much on practical use as on formal accreditation. "Organisations don't just need certified professionals-they need people who can apply these skills immediately," he said.

He said the two-day model is meant to give learners a route into certification without the time commitment of a standard classroom week. "Microsoft Express helps learners build confidence through hands-on experience while giving them a practical path toward certification without requiring a full week away from work," Williamson said.