Per Scholas marked a historic milestone by celebrating our 30th anniversary with the prestigious honor of ringing the Nasdaq Closing Bell on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Per Scholas Chief Revenue Officer Caitlyn Brazill took the stage at Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square to commemorate this occasion, highlighting three decades of impact, transforming lives through no-cost tech training and advancing economic mobility across the nation. More than 50 members of the Per Scholas community were in attendance and onstage, including leadership, learners, and supporters, all gathered to commemorate our remarkable journey and continued commitment to launching thriving careers in the tech industry.

Ringing the closing bell at Nasdaq symbolizes Per Scholas’ enduring influence and recognition as a leader in workforce development. Over the past 30 years, we have empowered more than 30,000 learners with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in technology careers. As Per Scholas looks ahead to the future, this milestone reaffirms our dedication to innovation, inclusion, and expanding access to transformative career pathways.

“I am honored to ring the NASDAQ bell, representing the spirit of American innovation and the limitless potential of the American Dream,” Caitlyn said, surrounded by Per Scholas leaders, learners, and supporters, all united in their mission to drive economic mobility through tech.

On Thursday, September 19, Per Scholas hosted a panel, Build Your Talent Pipeline through Cybersecurity & Tech Apprenticeships, with industry leaders addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges: the shortage of skilled cybersecurity and tech professionals. The event, led by Alanna Hughes, Senior Vice President of Innovation & Strategy at Per Scholas, Patrice Madu, Per Scholas Los Angeles Managing Director, and Terence West, Senior Director of Apprenticeships at Per Scholas, provided attendees with insights into overcoming hiring challenges through innovative apprenticeship programs.

Key speakers included Sabra Johnson, General Manager at ISD; Walter Tucker IV, Program Manager at ISD; Nicole Van Baelen, HR Director at Trane; and Ladena Sampson, Program Manager at Train, who shared their experiences on successfully building a talent pipeline through apprenticeships.

Throughout the event, attendees learned practical strategies to bypass common barriers to acquiring top cybersecurity talent. The discussions provided an in-depth look at the current cybersecurity hiring landscape, helping participants understand how to stay competitive in an evolving market. Speakers also highlighted how apprenticeships can play a crucial role in cultivating future leaders and retaining skilled professionals.

The event was more than just a discussion; it offered an invaluable opportunity for networking and idea exchange. If you’re interested in learning more about apprenticeship opportunities, reach out to Alanna Hughes at ahughes@perscholas.org.