Built on a strong education tradition, committed to excellence

History

Founded in 1996 by former high school teacher, computer technician, and corporate trainer, Neal Otto, Portland Oregon based Jumpstart Computer Training has evolved into a leader in technology consulting and user training throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Jumpstart’s first mobile computer lab consisted of 12 full sized tower computers with monster sized CRT monitors that were carted around in the back of Neal’s Ford Ranger pick-up truck. These days, Jumpstart uses a much sleeker, state of the art, 18 station laptop lab that can be setup in virtually any reasonably-sized conference room.

Since its humble beginning, Jumpstart has developed strong relationships with corporations, government agencies, Native American Tribes and other organizations throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Why Jumpstart Has Been Successful

While other training companies have been scaling back or going out of business, Jumpstart has been successful because our loyal customers value Jumpstart’s:

• Experience
• Integrity and dependability
• Flexibility
• Competitive rates
• Personal attention
• Rounded approach to training
• In-person training (vs. online)
• Relevant course content and materials
• Big enough to meet your needs, small enough to care

and value the chance to support a local business.

Experience – We use the software that we teach, in addition to continually researching new tools and applications. We have earned key certifications (Microsoft Project, Microsoft Partner). Since 1996, we have taught thousands of technology users.

Integrity and dependability – We show up when we say we will. We do what we say we will. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Period.

Flexibility – from providing classes starting at 6:30am or on weekends, to arranging multiple complicated, customized classes, all requests are seriously considered and accommodation made whenever possible.

Competitive rates – Jumpstart runs a lean shop in all ways, but definitely saves because our business is built by relationships and referrals instead of expensive advertising and commissioned sales people. These savings can be passed on to our clients.

Personal attention by the owner – On your first call to find out about training, you are talking with Neal Otto, the owner and lead trainer, not a commissioned sales person. Neal has been a hands-on owner since 1996, working personally with every client. He knows issues faced by IT departments, organizations and end users because he has been in the trenches with them all. He takes your success personally and his loyal clients value that.

Comprehensive approach to training – Jumpstart training isn’t just a ‘click here, click there’ type of training. We go beyond software how-to’s to include best practices, workflow, and efficiency tips that help users understand not just how the program works, but how to make the program work for them.

For example, one client reported a 15% decrease in the amount of email sent after a presentation of Outlook Efficiencies.

In-person training – What’s the difference between being in class with the instructor and watching a talking head on a screen? Compare sitting on the 50 yard line of the Super Bowl, to watching it on TV. Yes, you’ll see the game either way, but which is the better experience?

Relevant course content and materials – At Jumpstart, we create our own materials or customize stock material to include only what users really need to know.

Big enough to meet your needs, small enough to care – Jumpstart has the ability to expand staff to include a number of well qualified instructors to meet almost any need, yet the bottom line remains the personal integrity of the owner and the staff he works with to meet your needs.

Ask for our reference list and you’ll see satisfied clients that are leaders in industry and government.