Distributors Arrow and Avnet Technology Solutions have both been selected as IBM Global Training Providers.
This means that they can offer training programmes to build competency and knowledge around the entire IBM portfolio to reseller partners, as well as end users.
The Avnet centres supporting this global training role will commence in two phases, starting with: Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the UK and Ireland,
In the next 12 months, Arrow ECS Education will implement its IBM Global Training program in up to 130 countries, it says. It is anticipated that it will be available in 10 countries to start, and will be offered in more than 50 additional countries by the end of 2013, and to the remaining countries by summer 2014, Arrow says.
Laurent Sadoun, president of Arrow ECS in EMEA and head of Arrow's worldwide services for the ECS segment, said: "We will now support IBM's new partner-led model through training solutions and a global team of training experts to help increase IBM education and adoption of the IBM software and systems portfolio in the global marketplace.
"It will also deliver to our partners visibility on their customer projects, bringing many cross-selling and upselling opportunities."