Per Scholas St. Louis Featured in St. Louis Magazine for Expanding Tech Training in the AI Era

LOUIS, MO — March 4, 2026 — Per Scholas St. Louis has been featured in St. Louis Magazine for its impact on expanding access to no-cost tech training and economic mobility in the age of artificial intelligence.

The article highlights the story of Jonai “Serenity” Whitehorn, a recent graduate of the St. Louis campus’s 15-week IT Support program. After completing the intensive course and earning her A+ certification, Whitehorn secured a tech support role at Frontline Managed Services, marking a significant step toward her long-term goal of becoming a mainframe engineer.

The feature underscores Per Scholas’ model of combining rigorous, employer-aligned technical training with comprehensive wraparound support. In addition to instruction, learners receive access to career coaching, certification vouchers, transportation assistance, loaner equipment, and even zero-interest loans to help cover living expenses during training.

Since launching in St. Louis in 2022 at Cortex, Per Scholas has graduated more than 400 learners locally, achieving an 84 percent job attainment rate. According to Per Scholas St. Louis’ Managing Director, Keisha Mabry Haymore, , most learners enter the program earning approximately $19,000 annually and, on average, double or triple their earnings after graduation.

The article also explores how Per Scholas is adapting to rapid advances in AI. Rather than competing with automation tools, the organization focuses on preparing learners to work alongside emerging technologies, equipping them with the judgment, adaptability, and technical fluency needed in evolving workplaces.

Through close partnerships with regional employers, including BJC, Per Scholas continues to strengthen the local tech talent pipeline while expanding opportunity for ambitious St. Louisans seeking sustainable, high-growth careers.

The full feature is available here in St. Louis Magazine.