Per Scholas and CareerVillage Pilot AI Career Coaching to Strengthen Learner Success

Research shows that embedding AI career coaching into workforce training can improve learner engagement and certification outcomes.

For 30 years, Per Scholas has prepared learners for technology careers through technical training, professional development, and personalized career coaching. As AI transforms the future of work, we’re exploring how it can strengthen the human support that has always been central to our model.

That’s why Per Scholas partnered with CareerVillage to pilot ‘Coach’, an AI-powered career-coaching platform that helps learners build confidence, strengthen career readiness, and navigate their job searches. The findings offer promising evidence that thoughtfully implemented AI can improve learner outcomes while giving career coaches more time to focus on individualized support.

Rather than offering AI as an optional resource, Per Scholas and CareerVillage tested whether embedding Coach directly into the curriculum would improve results. Across two pilots, involving 300+ learners, the organizations compared a flexible implementation with one that integrated AI coaching into weekly professional development activities from the start of training.

The structured approach delivered stronger outcomes:

• 92% learner adoption
• 89% certification attainment among cybersecurity learners

The pilot found that many learners felt more comfortable asking career-related questions of an AI coach, creating another avenue for building confidence while continuing to work with Per Scholas instructors and career coaches. Facilitators also reported that integrating ‘Coach’ into the curriculum reduced preparation time and enhanced classroom activities.

These findings reinforce Per Scholas’ broader AI strategy: using technology to amplify human support rather than replace it. Career coaches remain central to helping learners navigate career decisions and employer connections, while AI provides personalized guidance between coaching sessions.

While additional research is needed to understand long-term employment outcomes, the pilot suggests that successful AI adoption depends as much on implementation as the technology itself. By embedding AI into existing curriculum and partnering closely with instructors, workforce organizations can create more engaging learning experiences and stronger outcomes for learners.

As Per Scholas continues investing in AI-powered learning experiences, partnerships like this help ensure innovation remains focused on what matters most: expanding opportunity and improving learner success.

Read the White Paper: https://www.aicareercoach.org/s/Piloting_Coach_With_PerScholas_WhitePaper.pdf