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The European MCT Summit 2025 Recap

Finally, the first event of 2025 was there and for me, it was a special one. The European MCT Summit 2025 in Manchester is an event by MCTs, for MCTs. In this blog post, I share my experiences from this great event.

What is the European MCT Summit?

The European MCT Summit is an event for Microsoft Certified Trainers and it took place on January 9-10 at the University Academy 92 in Manchester. This event is organized by MCTs for MCTs, offering a platform for trainers across Europe (and even the World). During this event experienced and new MCTs unite to network, share knowledge, and learn from each other.

The European MCT Summit is an event organized by MCTs for MCTs.

With a range of sessions tailored to enhance MCTs’ knowledge and teaching skills, and discussions on the latest Microsoft technologies and methodologies. A complete contribution to the MCT Community.

Overall, the European MCT Summit 2025 is an invaluable opportunity for MCTs to stay updated, inspired, and connected in a rapidly evolving field.

Location

The event occurred at the University Academy 92 (UA92) in Stretford, Manchester. University Academy 92 (UA92) is a distinctive higher education institution, co-founded by Manchester United’s Class of 92 and Lancaster University, UA92 offers a unique approach to learning that emphasizes character and personal development alongside academic achievement. The institution provides a range of courses in fields such as business, digital, media, and sports, all designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers.

Strong industry partnerships, including collaborations with organizations like Microsoft, KPMG, and Manchester United support UA92’s innovative curriculum. This ensures students gain real-world experience and insights, preparing them for life beyond university. The academy’s focus on personal development and employability makes it a standout choice for students looking to impact their chosen fields significantly.

Meet the organizers

This year’s event is organized by an awesome team led by the amazing Sara Fennah. A big thank you to, Julian Sharp, Tiago Costa, Robert Atkinson, Joe Griffin, Mark Christie, Narayan Solanski, Andrew Bettany, EY Kalman, Rex de Koning, Denise McLaughlin, and Rolf McLaughlin.

MCT Summit 2025 – Day One

Off we go, after a short trip with the tram, it was time for the MCT Summit. After the mandatory registration and receiving our badge and goodie bag, it was time for the real thing. Let’s go!

The beloved Sara Fennah warmly welcomed us during the “Welcome Keynote” followed by the enthusiastic Sarah Kong during the “MCT Program Update” keynote. She discussed upcoming updates and plans for the Microsoft Certified Trainer program. Let’s make that MCT Program great again!

As an MCT, the MCT lounge should be your daily go-to community website to be kept up-to-date

Next up was Gareth Jones‘s “Courseware beyond MOC” session. He gave us an update on the Specialist Courseware portfolio and the future roadmap. For those who didn’t know, Specialist Courseware has a special benefit for MCTs. Go check it out!

After the keynote sessions, it was time for the in-depth sessions to begin. Marc Michault‘s first session of the day was on “What they don’t teach you for the Instructional Skills Certificate.” During this session, Marc provided us with some real-life experiences as an MCT and what is expected of you as an MCT.

Next up was the “Lunch Break” provided by all the sponsors. A big thank you to all the sponsors for making this possible!

Ready for part two of day one with Tiago Costa and his session on “Transforming Training with AI“. He showed us some innovative ways to enhance learning experiences and also how AI can be used for personalized content and increasing student engagement. We also explored how MCTs can use AI to transform their courses, using AI tools. A very interesting session, because we all know that AI is a hot topic these days.

Another interesting session on day one was a panel discussion on “MCTs Make Great MVPs – Take 2” with Chintan Patel, Bill Ayers, Jonah Andersson, and Ronald Beekelaar. This panel was led by Sasha Kranjac and showed us how MCTs can have some skills that can be useful in their way to becoming a Microsoft MVP.

I skipped the last session of the day to process all the interesting information from the past sessions and mentally prepare myself for the Social Mixer. Pizzas, beer, and networking with awesome people. The perfect way to end a great first day of the MCT Summit!

Let’s round up the first day and get some well-deserved rest for day two (a special one for myself).

MCT Summit 2025 – Day Two

The second day of the event was a special one for me, I was asked by my former colleague Anouck Fierens to take part in a discussion panel during her “What Makes a Good Trainer? Exploring the Essential Skills Beyond Knowledge” session, together with Sasha Kranjac and Marijn Somers.
It was my first appearance ever on a stage during an event… I was very nervous but I loved it! During this interactive session, we discussed why technical and soft skills are important. But also topics on what makes you a good trainer came across. I ended my part with the words “Love what you do!” and that is the most important thing.

Big thank you to Anouck for making this possible for me and letting me get on stage with these amazing and talented people.

In the following session on the “10 Dos and Don’ts of (un)Successful Presentations“, Sasha Kranjac shows us some important soft skills you need as a trainer to become that Successful trainer.

After the coffee break, there was Cindy Haast‘s session on the “Top 8 Lessons Learned from Learners”. During this session, Cindy delved into the common challenges trainers face in technical environments and gave us insights and techniques to embrace does challenges and take action to enhance our techniques.

After lunch, there was a session with Jonah Andersson on “Remote and Hybrid IT Training: Practical Teaching Strategies and tips for MCTs“. During her session, Jonah gave us some essential tools for virtual remote training and gave us a practical list of strategies and tips to improve our remote training.

Next up was an interesting session with Sara Fennah, Julian Sharp, and Tiago Costa that provided us with some great “Tools and Apps to Super Power Your Training“. During this interactive session (I remember Tiago running back and forth with the microphone) speakers and attendees provided some great apps and tools they use to make their lives easier while giving training. Time to check out those long list of apps and tools!

The next session by Rex de Koning was one I wanted to attend because I could relate to his situation. During his session on “I’m an introvert… Can I stand in front of a classroom?” we talked about the struggles you can have as an introvert, but it doesn’t mean it needs to be a blocking factor to get in front of a classroom. He also led us through his path and how he handled such situations.
If you have stage fright and are introverted, be sure to follow Rex’s session if you get the chance. After all, we are all a little introverted, even the best and most famous entertainers in this world.

To end this wonderful MCT Summit there was the “Closing Note” with Sara Fennah and Sarah Kong, where we reflected on the MCT Summit and also discussed some of the updates and ideas for the MCT Community in the future.

To close the MCT Summit there was the awesome announcement (and passing of the cards) by Robert Hales and Jasmin Kahriman for the next European MCT Summit, which will be hosted in Bosnia & Herzegovina! Hope to see you all there!

My Closing Keynote

To close, I would like to take a moment to share my own Closing Keynote.
This was one of the most enjoyable summits I have ever attended. The family atmosphere, support, and motivational words (after my session) were heartwarming. Whether you were an experienced MCT with 20+ years of experience or a newcomer, everyone was considered one and learned from each other.
I wish to thank everyone for this wonderful experience and hope to see you all back at the next MCT Summit.

Nicky De Westelinck

Nicky De Westelinck is a Modern Workplace Expert for Arxus with several years of experience in Microsoft 365. His main focus is Microsoft Intune and Microsoft 365 Administration. He is also a Microsoft Certified Trainer since 2021.

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