{
  "id": 18244472,
  "title": "Microsoft admits certifications can be a drag, launches creds that recognize skills",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/microsoft-admits-certifications-can-be-a-drag-launches-creds-that",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-05T03:43:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Register Software",
    "slug": "the-register-software",
    "url": "https://www.theregister.com/software/2026/11/05/microsoft-admits-certifications-can-be-a-drag-launches-creds-that-recognize-skills/5307725"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Microsoft has acknowledged the value of real-world experience over traditional certifications, unveiling its new \"Pro Badge\" credential. According to Cameron Percy, general manager for content and insights, the Pro Badge complements Microsoft Certifications, showcasing how individuals utilize specific products in their daily work. Unlike traditional certifications, Pro Badges are earned continuously as users demonstrate proficiency in using a product, such as GitHub Copilot. The first Pro Badge is for GitHub Copilot, which requires users to sign in with their GitHub account and complete a proficiency assessment. The assessment uses evidence from users' product usage to evaluate their skills and update their proficiency level, which can range from beginner to expert. To earn the Pro Badge, users must reach the proficient level, demonstrating practical ability to work on projects and use GitHub across various scenarios. Microsoft has integrated the Pro Badges with LinkedIn, allowing users to showcase their proficiency on their profiles. Microsoft emphasizes that Pro Badges do not replace certifications or Applied Skills but add a third signal to recognize skills in real-world application.",
  "summary": "‘Pro Badges’ don’t require a test, Microsoft awards them by watching you use GitHub",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}