Testimonials

The class format was great, especially the way Rich gave a concise lecture on a topic, then demonstrated the use of the appropriate tool or tools, taking the time to go through and talk about each and every tab and checkbox. The study guides were a lifesaver, and invaluable in helping me pass the exams. The relaxed atmosphere of Focus was very conducive to learning, and the provided breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and drinks helped avoid unnecessary distractions and time waste. I have taken classes at Focus before, and though I’ve known Rich for years, this was the first time I had him as an instructor. I have to say he did a fabulous job. I will not only return here for as much training as I can get, I will also heartily recommend Focus to others.

Focus has obviously done their homework. The study guides and Rich’s lessons gave me what I consider the best possible preparation for taking the tests. The facility is comfortable and the equipment was top notch. The fact that beverages snacks and meals were provided made the experience even better. I will return to Focus for future training and recommend Focus to anyone in the market for training.

I traveled over 800 miles from the Washington DC area, and ONCE AGAIN Focus Learning Systems has provided a superior training experience. Rich Stanley did an outstanding job ensuring I learned the material, which provided the substance and guidance to pass both upgrade exams and obtain my Windows 2003 MCSE. I hope to become an instructor one day soon and instruct in such an inspirational manner!!!

Thanks to Peggy and Craig for all of their help and assistance, and to Jim for the breakfast meals! With several alternate training centers available in DC, I will always choose to travel to Focus Learning Systems….unless they decide to open a training center in DC….now that is a great idea!!!

Thanks AGAIN to Focus Learning Systems.

Fun place, enjoyed the experience greatly. Good time frame, good pace, good food, great people! It is hard to recommend a change to what is as close to perfection as your facility is. I will continue to recommend others to take courses at your facility.

The course was fantastic. Study material was perfect. I would not hesitate to return for any training/certification needs. The class manages to teach the concepts very well and prepare you for the exams. I have and will continue to recommend FLS to friends.

Wow!,

I just wanted to say that this has been one of the toughest and at the same time one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. I can’t begin to tell you guys how much you have made my experience here one of the best things ever. Rich is one of the most patient and helpful instructors I have ever experienced. Not only did he take the time to answer my questions, he backed up the answer with the reason it was the answer.

Everyone here at Focus has been wonderful and was always rooting for me and my classmates on each and every exam. Breakfast and lunch were always wonderful and the facility is designed to take care of your every need so that you can concentrate on the task at hand. If anyone I know is ever thinking of taking classes for certification preparation Focus Learning Systems will be the first name out of my mouth.

Rich,

You were a joy as far as an instructor and person. Thanks.

For the most part, the material and course of direction were successfully tailored for both practical application and positive exam results. Your system of instruction was by far the best I have experienced yet.

Breakfast and coffee were the best.

I've been through many training courses over the last 10 years, including other Microsoft courses at both local and out-of-town vendors. Focus Learning Systems stands head and shoulders above the rest! Rich and Bruce are the most knowledgeable and skilled instructors I've ever had. A Bootcamp is not easy, but these guys made it palatable, instructional and fun at the same time.

The rest of the staff at Focus is terrific! Jim, the breakfasts were awesome; you've spoiled us all. The facilities are extraordinary; you have the "best" of everything (especially the coffee machine!).

From now on, when my staff needs training, Focus is the vendor we'll call. And I'll be back for more too!

The quality of the learning environment and materials was surpassed only by the quality of the instructor. Good Job!

It is invaluable to have a knowledgeable instructor explaining the concepts on which I am going to be tested. There is only so much that can be drawn from a static source such as a textbook. The interactive nature of the class is a great asset.

Well, I have to say that you guys are great! You managed to take what I thought was an insurmountable task and break it down into something I could manage. Rich and Bruce, you definitely have a knack for presenting the material in a "real world" way that makes it easy to understand. I learned more in these classes than in any other training I've attended.

The whole staff here really focuses (no pun intended) on helping the students learn the material, pass the tests and keeping distractions to a minimum. I appreciate all your help and will definitely recommend this bootcamp to my friends and peers.

I am just so amazed that in 16 days so much information can be covered and understood. In 16 days I have become an MCSE and I think the whole shock of it is still sinking in.

If my company had not paid for this course and I had to pay for it myself, it would have been worth every penny!

Thanks to all of the Focus staff, this has been a great 16 days.

This has been the closest thing to a class A military school that I have been to. Rich is great, a smooth calculated approach with a timed schedule that he keeps on track with while at the same time not over looking his students needs.

Having meals catered in is one of the most time efficient things I have ever seen at a training facility. A morning meal to make sure that students are ready to learn, and an afternoon meal that does not interrupt the learning process.

This was a long 16 day week, my wife complained that I spoke in Microsoft fragments, was unavailable and no fun. But that's her problem!

Thanks for getting me through this.

This bootcamp has been a great success for me. It has given me the necessary training to achieve my goal of MCSE.

My only suggestion would be to reduce the food! I think I gained 5 lbs!

I expect to be returning to FLS for additional training as I venture into this IT field.

I traveled 830 miles to attend the MCSE bootcamp, and I could not have made a wiser decision than to come to Focus Learning Systems. Bruce and Rich are THE BEST instructors you could ask for. They are extremely sincere in their desire to see you succeed in learning the material, and obtaining your certification. Thanks to Jim for all the great breakfast meals, and also to Peggy, Erin, and Craig for all of their assistance and support. They are always positive, and that attitude helped motivate me to success in obtaining my MCSE. Thanks again to all at Focus Learning Systems.

Based on my previous experience, I knew that time here would be well spent. What really sets FLS apart is that while the emphasis is very much upon completing the camp with a certification, The Instructors never lose sight of the fact that there's much more to understanding a product than test-taking demands. The continual reference to real-world usage combined with numerous gems of information are invaluable. The result of this approach is that at the end of the camp I am not only certified but have gleaned considerable information to be applied outside the classroom. The cumulative effect is that my own understanding (and thus, credibility) is enhanced.

AWESOME training! They hit the material of every test right on the dot. You were both 100% committed to your students for the duration of the class. The FLS facility is one of the best training facilities that I have seen. Thanks for the great food and get-together at your house.

I would and will recommend FLS to everyone. Although I'm 1500 miles from my home, I wouldn't think twice about coming back. Keep up the good work!!

Your Friend,
Michael W. Miller
Westsylvania Heritage Corporation
Sr. Systems Administrator

Bottom line, worth every minute and every dollar. Nothing but positive things to say. Both Bruce and Rich did an excellent job of not only exam prep but general foundation in the course material as we went along. I felt as though I didn't just learn the answers to test questions, but also got a good fundamental understanding of each topical area. Now it is up to me to continue building on that foundation begun here.

Your training center facilities and staff are great. The whole experience at Focus Learning is a positive one. Good equipment, love the central Monitor on each desk. Food was unending. I particularly appreciated the personal cooking touches of the staff.

I have already referred one person, and whenever the opportunity arises - I'll give your name without hesitation to anyone looking for a boot camp. Outstanding.

The learning experience that Focus Learning Centers has given me deserves an A+. The instructors were great and knew exactly what we needed to be able to pass our exams and retain the knowledge for when we got back to work. We are all truly 2000 MCSE Technicians and are prepared for challenging experiences in the future. If you don't come to Focus Learning Systems for your MCSE 2000 Training then you have made a terrible mistake!!!!

I learned more than I could have ever imaged. Bruce is probably one of the best instructors I have ever had. He was very patient with us, very knowledgeable about what he was teaching, especially for the real world.

Again, thank you for this experience, It was challenging, mind blowing (for sure! :) and of course lots of fun.

Although one of the most difficult training programs I have ever attended, it is by far one of the most rewarding experiences. Bruce and Rich exceeded all expectations. They do what it takes to assist you in any manner, no matter how late in the day it gets. Every one of the Focus Learning Systems' staff is a professional in every manner of the word. They greet you every morning with exuberance and enthusiasm. The food and atmosphere was outstanding. Thanks for the experience!

The information was almost overwhelming, but because of excellent instruction, I made it through passing all exams. Bruce Gordon did a superb job! I highly recommend him as an instructor and highly recommend the Focus approach to delivering this material. I plan to return for additional class offerings.

I thought that the format of the class and the atmosphere were ideal for learning. Both Bruce and Rich are very knowledgeable in a wide range of technical disciplines, including all Microsoft products and other operating systems. Their in-depth technical knowledge coupled with their real-world experience helped me fully understand all the topics covered in the class.

All the staff at Focus Learning Systems were very nice and eager to accommodate all of the students. The food was plentiful and great. I'll be back.

Can't argue with your methods - they worked quite nicely for me. I especially liked the balance of hands-on exercises with the lecture. It was just enough to familiarize us and yet still allow us to cover all the necessary material. Bruce and Rich were extremely knowledgeable, and I felt they were generous in their willingness to entertain questions that would help us in our daily activities - rather than simply dismiss them as "outside the scope of this course". The entire staff of FLS was exceptionally accommodating and genuinely committed to each of our success. The facilities were immaculate, and the food... Look out, Emeril!!!

This is my first boot-camp and obviously I was worried, mainly for two reasons.

First reason was the language. This has been a constant effort, as well as the course. As you can see along these 16 days, I can't say that I have a stronger knowledge of it (especially when I have to speak).

The second reason has been the contents of the course, as well as the agenda.

Fortunately, I've been supported ALL the time by you. This is most appreciated and has been one of the strongest reasons to continue making the efforts in order to get successfully certified.

Thanks to ALL of the people from FLS. It's been hard but a really, really pleasant experience.

(Spanish text)
Aprovecho esta ocasion para agradecer de todo corazon a las personas de Focus Learning Systems todo el apoyo y el calor recibido por su parte.

No recuerdo los nombres mas que de Bruce :-) y Rich :-), pero eso no significa que no recuerde al resto de la gente.

Como dice el ultimo parrafo en ingles (al menos eso pretende), ha sido duro, pero a la vez ha resultado una experiencia inolvidable.

I found the semi formal, lighthearted environment very conducive for studying and training. I would recommend my friends colleagues to Focus Learning Systems without any hesitation.

I appreciate all of the time and effort everyone put into this MCSE Bootcamp. Bruce and Rich did an excellent job sharing their knowledge with all of us. I know I wouldn't have been able to pass these exams without their expertise and instruction.

Everyone at Focus was very encouraging and positive in attitude and that helped me get through this process.

I must say this has been the most intense 16 days of my life. Having almost no NT 4.0 background, the whole prospect of a Windows 2000 boot camp was overwhelming. The only way I made it through this was because of the excellent instruction from both Bruce and Rich. I've had many instructors, from other IT classes and in college, these two are by far the best I've ever seen. I believe that only and handful of people could run a boot camp type of class and two of those people are here at FLS. Thanks to all.

The program that FLS has put together is fantastic. The facility was very well equipped and maintained. The food was excellent. Bruce and Rich were obviously well versed in the topics that they taught. I like the fact that you didn't just read to me from the book - I could do that. I also appreciated the extra effort that was made to drive home difficult topics and/or relate them to NT technology. I highly recommend FLS to others. I couldn't have asked for better.

I got exactly what I expected from this bootcamp. In my opinion, a bootcamp is designed to curve the knowledge that you already have, fill in the blanks and prepare the individual for the Microsoft series of tests. I think I received that and am happy for your assistance in my training.

After researching several boot camp schools, I choose Focus Learning in FL. I was most impressed with the alumni reviews and especially the professional and pleasant staff experiences that I encountered while inquiring about Mountain View Systems/Focus Learning Systems. I believed my training would not only prepare to meet the necessary objectives for acquiring my MCSE certification, but it would also provide me with the technical skills and considerations that are needed to assess and seek out the appropriate solutions for one's unique environment.

After 16 days of boot camp at Focus Learning with Bruce Gordon and Richard Stanley as my instructors, I found the experience to be a complete success. I found them to be excellent instructors that provided both real world based scenarios and application, as well as the well rounded preparation for passing all of the exams. In addition, they did so with complete awareness and consideration for the amount of stress and anxieties that we were undergoing, and did all that they could to reduce these stresses, and boost our confidence to succeed.

In short, I would recommend Focus Learning to anyone who needs to acquire quick knowledge and understanding for any of the technical fields that Focus Learning offers, and feel confident that what they learn in such a short time will go with them to be applicable in their unique environment.

I came into this course having never taken any Microsoft courses. I have truly enjoyed this course and the atmosphere at FLS. The entire staff here is outstanding. Bruce and Rich are incredible instructors, Debbie is outstanding, she is always attentive to any need you might have and Bruce's father is an excellent cook. Thanks to all of the staff for your dedication and hard work. I would highly recommend this Learning center for all courses offered here.

Windows 2000 MCSE Boot Camp is a unique experience. This type of scenario is great for folks who don't have the time to spend many weeks in different training sessions.

You cannot imagine how much knowledge you gain and retain from taking this course. The learning atmosphere at FLS with its knowledgeable staff is great. Another benefit to the boot camp is that you gain from the experience others have gone through in their jobs.

The experience has been great and I hope to do it again when the next version comes out.

Exhaustion aside, this Boot Camp was a terrific experience for me both professionally and personally. The training I received will be of great use as I return to the job and begin working with my team members to migrate DOH from NT4.0 to Windows 2000. I also re-certified and am now an MCSE for Windows 2000.

The training materials will also be a daily reference for me. The instructors were very knowledgeable of the subjects they taught and helped make the massive amount of information understandable and easy to remember.

Breakfast each day was superb and a great way to get us going. Thank you to all the staff and their special efforts that helped us get through these 16 days.

This was the first boot camp I had ever attended. I knew from others that it was going to be fairly fast paced, boy were they right. 16 days continual effort is a long time, I don't think anyone can appreciate this unless they have been through such a camp.

Overall, this was another great course put on at Focus. You guy's really do a great job.

I want to sincerely thank all of the folks at Focus Learning Systems for making this a wonderful experience. Rich Stanley is by far the best technical instructor that I have come in contact with. He is very knowledgeable on the subject matter and keeps the class focused.

I have taken numerous classes during my years in the computer field and nothing compares to my experience at Focus Learning Systems.

Thanks again for the wonderful hot breakfast each morning, great lunches, and the awesome classroom atmosphere. I will definitely recommend Focus LS to anyone who wants to obtain technical certifications of any kind.

This was my first MCSE boot camp, and I was a bit unsure of not only myself, but also of the style of instruction for an accelerated course like such as this. I shouldn't have worried one bit. I should have worried about Rich's threats to unleash the Ebola-infected capuchin monkey that was caged in the front of the class, but I didn't. Now, I need to find a new job with my shiny new MCSE certification with a fantastic salary to make my now short-life worth living. Thanks, Rich.

Rich's even tone and calm demeanor were perfect for delivering such a massive amount of information in such a short span of time. The nearness of the out-of-towners to the training facility was not only helpful to those members of the boot camp, but also to myself. I had no trouble just running over to someone's hotel room for what turned out to be a series of fantastically helpful study groups.

The Focus Learning Systems facilities and staff are undoubtedly a factor in creating such a positive and effective learning environment. Jim's home-cooked breakfasts, short trips to great restaurants for lunches, fresh made iced tea in the fridge and people who don't forget your name after the first five minutes all make this training center unique among many. I have taken classes here in the past, and I am familiar with some of the staff, but the treatment received for a boot camp is exceptional. The staff is aware of how stressful a boot camp can be and are more accommodating than any other training facilities I have experienced. While I had previously recommended Focus to my peers in the past, I will do so now with even greater enthusiasm. I plan on returning to Focus for all my future training needs.

I just want to thank everyone at Focus Learning Systems for the wonderful experience I have had taking my Windows 2000 MCSE course. This is the best learning environment I have been to out of all the different places I have attended classes.

Instructor:
The instructor was well prepared and knowledgeable in the subject matter. Very few questions needed follow-up research.

Facilities:
The learning environment was very good, especially the center/shared monitor of the instructors console. This provided a far superior presentation medium than overhead projectors. The student systems were adequate to the task of these diverse topics and all worked well.

Course Design and Conduct:
The course design flowed smoothly from subject to subject, building in a natural progression of learning. The pace of the classes was about right (after I look back on it from the end), although it seemed overwhelming while going through the course segments. We had a small sized class that worked well with each other in the study sessions. This contributed to keeping a fast pace.

Summary:
The format of the boot camp is an effective and efficient method for completing complex certification. It concentrates the student's attention and minimizes the cost and "out of office" time, overall. I prefer to take this training away from the regular office to avoid being called back and distracted by regular business issues. I'd recommend this structure for my other team mates.

I think the class material was laid out in a logical, easy to understand format. The concepts built on one another from the very beginning, and were all brought together at the correct time.

The class handouts/study guides are an immense help. I also particularly liked the viewing screen, allowing the student to follow the actual server screens. After having been through a boot camp with overhead projectors this is a major improvement and a good way to learn.

Thanks for helping me to learn and understand the material.

Focus Learning Systems is a superb organization that really takes care of students. I have attended several Microsoft courses but this is the best training course that I've ever attended. Bruce Gordon is a highly recommended instructor that has clearly outdone every past instructor that I've ever had in the last 5 years of taking Microsoft courses. He dissected hard to grasp material, which allowed everyone to quickly master the new technologies of the Microsoft Windows 2000 architecture in less than 16 days. Wow!!! I recommend this course to anyone who's looking to further their education, experience and expertise in these new Microsoft products. Focus Learning Systems will always be the place where I'll get my certifications in the future. Great people, great facility and excellent instructors are the key to success. They have it all!!! Thanks for everything...

Your bootcamp has been one of the best learning experiences for me in the computer world. I am the type of person that likes to focus and you made us focus on the material and get it through our heads, (most of the time).

I have nothing but praise for the quality of instruction I received and for the personal attention that was lavished upon me for the last 16 days. The material was covered well and I feel that the students were well-prepared for the tests. I can't think of any improvements to suggest.

Wow, I can't believe it's finally over. I am thankful that I passed all the exams on the first try. I can compliment both Bruce and Rich for that. I thought the classes were very good. There was a lot of material to go over, but I expected that going in to the course. As for teaching style, I liked both Bruce and Rich's style. Both of you guys were great and I would not hesitate to come back for another course or recommend the course to any of my colleagues.

I thought the class was put on very well. Bruce and Rich did an excellent job in organizing the material and teaching the material in a way that allowed the students to absorb the material in the accelerated format. The classroom was set up wonderfully, as we did not have a single problem throughout the 16 day class. Aside from learning a tremendous amount of material, the instructors provided enormous amounts of suggestions and examples to better aid us in passing the tests. I would strongly recommend the format to anyone that wants to learn Windows 2000 without spending a month or more away from their job.

The teachers here are the key! The MOC can be dry and unclear (well, so can the tests). The ability to fill in the gaps and to provide you with a practical face for the abstract concepts is what sets them apart. The difference in my mind is that instructors (and there are plenty in this field) instruct, show you how to follow their instructions. Teachers teach, a much more dynamic endeavor and one that draws the student into the process rather than just being a pair of ears.

I thought the boot camp was OUTSTANDING !!!!!!!!!!!................I learned a tremendous amount in the 16 days I was here. I will be able to take the information that I've learned here and return to my company and truly make an impact on my company's IT environment. Both Bruce and Rich were outstanding in their presentations and their explanations of things that I wasn't too clear on. In addition, the entire staff was friendly and helpful. It was an investment that was more than worthwhile. I will HIGHLY RECOMMEND this class (and especially THIS ORGANIZATION) to my company upon my return !!!

I thought the time here was great. I have my MCSE. I would never have done this without attending the boot camp. This is something I have always wanted to do, but the fear of failure always kept me from trying. It wasn't even my idea to come here, but the good Lord seems to always work in real mysterious ways.

I am extremely pleased with the entire operation. A very friendly sincere staff that ensured we had everything needed to succeed. Instruction was superb. I recently went to classes at a different training center and was so disappointed with the instructors that I had vowed never to bother with a class again. But this one has changed my viewpoint. A friend had convinced me to give this school a try I am glad I listened.

Great Class! This is the second Boot Camp (NT4 and Win2K) that I've attended Focus Learning Instructors and I can honestly say they are the best that I've seen. Bruce is highly knowledgeable in all areas of implementing Windows 2000 and Active Directory. I'm proud to be one of the first to attend and to receive my Windows 2000 MCSE!