Whether you’re looking to brush up on your computer skills or need more advanced tech training, there are several options available in the Kitsap area that could save you a drive to Seattle. Olympic College, Paladin Data Systems and Gig Harbor’s Tacoma Community College are among the places that offer classes.

For those looking to get some formal instruction on programs like Windows XP, Word, Access, Excel and others, Olympic College as well as the Gig Harbor campus of TCC offer non-credit courses. These are often on the weekends or in the evenings, so you don’t have to ask your boss for time off. Additional courses are designed especially for seniors, and there are even Web design classes.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce has its own offerings, which this fall in addition to Microsoft software and Web design include desktop publishing with MS Publisher, advance Internet searching and a class on how to customize your computer for better use, covering everything from keyboard shortcuts to downloading utilities. Classes start in October and November, most of them in the evening.

If your learning style isn’t dependent on having face-to-face instruction, take advantage of OC’s online Navy and Customized Training program that includes a range of training from MS Office and Publisher to Crystal Reports, AppleWorks and QuickBooks. You can even learn how to use Photoshop and QuarkXpress if you’re interested in the graphic design field; how to network computers for the small or home office, and database development. Advanced users will find courses in Web design software, programming and multimedia.

Olympic offers various certificate levels, such as Certificate of Proficiency and Certificate of Recognition (for example, for Internetworking Technicians and Technical Support). For those entering the field of technology or needing to update and enhance their skills, Olympic has degrees in Computer Information Systems, along with LAN Administration and Support, and Technical Design, both of which offer two-year degrees and certifications.

The technology field has been expanding in the recent years, and to cater to that demand, Poulsbo-based Paladin Data Systems offers a comprehensive selection of technology training, not only to those entering the field but also to technicians who need to continue their education.

Paladin Training is a Microsoft Certified Technical Education Center with classes in Oracle, Microsoft, Java, Linux, Cisco, and much more. As an authorized Virtual University Enterprise campus, Paladin can certify in specialties ranging from Microsoft and Novell and Oracle and Sun.