- If you’re interested in this program and you live within our service area, fill out our application form then follow the prompts to schedule a virtual appointment.
- If you’re unable to reserve a virtual appointment or would rather meet with one of our team members in person to begin your application process, we also accept walk-ins at all of our career centers.
- If interested in the Gastonia course, you can call (704) 916-1610 to be assisted over the phone.
Computer Essentials Training
Are you interested in learning the most important and commonly used aspects of operating a computer? Goodwill’s free Computer Essentials training course is a three-day workshop that covers an introduction to computers, how to navigate a computer and its programs, and how to effectively use the internet.
We offer this course in Charlotte at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus and in Gastonia at our Career Center in Gastonia.
2023 Training Dates
CHARLOTTE LOCATION
| Application Period | Training Dates | Class Time | Delivery |
| Closed | April 26 – 28 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | May 10 – 12 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | May 31 – June 2 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | June 14 – 16 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | June 28 – 30 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | July 12 – 14 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | July 26 – 28 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | August 9 – 11 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | August 23 – 25 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | September 13 – 15 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | September 27 – 29 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | October 11 – 13 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | October 25 – 27 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
| October 12 – November 8 | November 15 – 17 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | In person |
GASTONIA LOCATION
| Application Period | Training Dates | Class Time | Delivery |
| Closed | August 7 – 9 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | September 27 – 29 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | In person |
| Closed | November 1 – 3 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | In person |
Course Format
Goodwill’s Computer Essentials training course lasts three days. The Charlotte course meets in-person from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus on the dates listed above. Additionally, there is optional lab time available from 1 – 3 p.m. on the first day of class. The Gastonia course meets in-person from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at our Career Center in Gastonia on the dates listed above.
Course Modules
- Module 1: Intro to Computers
- Are you new to using computers? Do you wonder what people mean when they say the Cloud, Windows or apps? Perhaps you just want to know more about how computers work. This first module covers the parts and proper use of a computer. During the instructor-led portion, participants will learn basic computer tasks, like navigating the computer, working with the desktop, utilizing the taskbar and more. After that portion, participants in the Charlotte course will have the opportunity to utilize Goodwill University’s computer lab to access a variety of tutorial games that will provide hands-on training in keyboarding and mouse manipulation.
- Module 2: Navigating a Computer
- Have you ever wondered what makes a computer operate? Then, this is the perfect module for you. We’ll teach you the functions of the operating system, how to access different applications, where to store files and pictures and much more.
- Module 3: Internet Basics
- Would you like to be more efficient in using the internet, or even just getting to the internet? Maybe you want to learn more about internet safety, searching for information, or the difference between a webpage and a website. This workshop will teach you about web browsers, the different parts of an internet window, how to navigate a webpage, how to search for information and evaluate results, internet safety, and much more.
Certification Opportunities
If you successfully complete all three modules in Goodwill’s Computer Essentials course, you’ll receive a Computer Essentials Certificate of Completion from Goodwill University (for the Charlotte course) or a Certificate of Completion from Gaston College (for the Gastonia course).
Prerequisite
There are no prerequisites required to take the Computer Essentials training course. Registration is required due to limited seating.
Launch Your Career
As a participant in one of Goodwill’s intensive training programs, you will be paired with a Career Navigator who will provide comprehensive and accelerated services to prepare you to advance and leverage career readiness and essential skills. They will provide ongoing career coaching activities such as resume development, elevator pitch, mock interviews and more. As you near completion of your training course, you will be connected with a member of the Employer Engagement Team for employment assistance. The Employer Engagement team partners with employers to facilitate employer led trainings, site tours, hiring events, and direct placements into high-paying industry related employment opportunities.
