Glassport, P.A., July 29, 2025 — Since launching in 2021, the Per Scholas Pittsburgh campus has trained nearly 600 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as IT Support and Cybersecurity.

Today, alongside community and employer partners, colleagues, and friends, Per Scholas Pittsburgh announced its Satellite Campus Launch in Glassport, PA, with remarks from Nick Pisciottano, Pennsylvania State Senator, District 45; Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive, David McDonald, Superintendent, South Allegheny School District; Elaina Skiba, Glassport Borough Manager; and Todd Derby, Per Scholas Regional Senior Vice President, Northeast. Sang Lee, Per Scholas Chief Development Officer, was also in attendance.

“Today is about more than just the expansion of a program. It’s about recognizing the need to bring sought-after training and employment opportunities to an area often left out of the conversation when we talk about the growth and revitalization of the region,” said Gene Walker, Managing Director, Per Scholas Pittsburgh. “Glassport is an area ripe for this type of opportunity, and the partnerships that we’ve already developed is proof that they are ready to take full advantage of our training and support.” 

The first cohort of Glassport Borough’s 10 learners began their coursework today. Per Scholas’ satellite model, first launched in New York in 2021, has proven effective in expanding access to communities with limited tech training options. By combining dedicated on-site support with connected classroom learning, this model offers equal-quality training experiences, builds capacity for community partners and creates efficient pathways to employment.

“Glassport could not be more excited about our new partnership with Per Scholas. One of our visions for the Borough is all about community and how we can be a part of helping not just our residents, but others in the Mon Valley. We believe that it’s not just about Glassport succeeding, but really, it’s about the South Allegheny School District and including the Mon Valley, ” stated Elaina Skiba, Glassport Borough Manager. “Recognizing some of the students in the first Glassport class was so rewarding, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for Glassport and Per Scholas.”

Per Scholas Pittsburgh acknowledges the Richard King Mellon Foundation and South Allegheny School District for their generous support, which made this celebration possible. Per Scholas Pittsburgh has placed learners at numerous institutions, including All Lines Technology, eNGINE, BNY Mellon, SoftWriters, and TEKsystems.

With a proven tech training model including both in-person and remote learning, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the greater Pittsburgh area. Per Scholas Pittsburgh is transforming lives and will continue to shape Pittsburgh’s future as a thriving technology hub by equipping Per Scholas Technologists with in-demand tech skills at no cost.

To learn more about Per Scholas Pittsburgh, follow them on LinkedIn or visit Per Scholas Pittsburgh.

About Per Scholas

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 3 0,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

At Per Scholas, leadership is more than a title — it’s a calling to advance economic mobility, foster opportunity, and ignite change across our communities. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce six dynamic leaders who have stepped into Managing Director roles across our campuses within the last year. Each brings a wealth of experience, a passion for education and workforce development, and a deep commitment to the cities they call home.

Meet the newest Per Scholas Managing Directors:

Joshua Park – Philadelphia (Joined May 15, 2024)

Philadelphia’s tech talent pipeline just got even stronger. Joshua Park joins Per Scholas Philadelphia after more than eight years at the West Philadelphia Skills Initiative, where he fostered career opportunities and built robust employer partnerships. Before his time at WPSI, Joshua led Sylvan Learning’s Philadelphia operations and began his career as a middle and high school math teacher. When he’s not opening doors for Philly’s future technologists, Joshua enjoys writing songs, growing tomatoes, and adventuring around town with his family — and three mischievous cats.

Camisha Beverly – Baltimore (Joined June 5, 2024)

Baltimore’s energy and ambition find a perfect match in Camisha Beverly. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing, training, and entrepreneurship, Camisha brings a unique ability to inspire, connect, and empower. Whether she’s working with brands like Vitamin Water and Volkswagen or leading new initiatives at Per Scholas Baltimore, Camisha is passionate about unlocking potential and expanding access to technical training. For her, the journey is about taking that first courageous step — and she’s ready to help countless Baltimoreans do just that.

Cedric Deadmon – Kansas City (Joined July 24, 2024)

Kansas City’s thriving tech ecosystem gains a champion in Cedric Deadmon. With 25 years of experience across workforce development, higher education, and career services, Cedric is a seasoned advocate for adult learners and credential attainment. A nationally certified College and Career Counselor, Cedric has consulted and presented nationally on strategies to boost economic mobility. Now, he brings his visionary leadership to Per Scholas Kansas City, ensuring that more residents gain access to life-changing tech careers.

Keisha Mabry Haymore – St. Louis (Joined September 4, 2024)

A TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, educator, and all-around powerhouse, Keisha Mabry Haymore now leads the charge at Per Scholas St. Louis. Keisha’s career spans classrooms, startups, and civic boards, and she’s been featured everywhere from NPR to Fast Company. With a background in education, business development, and digital marketing, Keisha embodies innovation and impact. Her mission in St. Louis? To build bridges, break barriers, and ensure that every learner has the opportunity to thrive in tech and beyond.

Kate Doyle – Chicago (Joined February 10, 2025)

With a background spanning special education, tech entrepreneurship, and corporate strategy, Kate Doyle’s leadership at Per Scholas Chicago signals bold new momentum. Before joining Per Scholas, Kate co-founded KindWork, a nonprofit focused on tech career pathways, and held senior positions in the tech industry. A civic leader on Chicago’s North Side, Kate is committed to creating opportunities that transform communities. She shares her home — and her passion for progress — with her spouse, child, and rescue dog.

Gene Walker – Pittsburgh (Joined February 19, 2025)

Per Scholas Pittsburgh welcomes homegrown leadership with the arrival of Gene Walker. A Pittsburgh native and proud Peabody High School graduate, Gene brings rich experience in education leadership and community engagement. As a School Board President for Pittsburgh Public Schools and former Elder at Mosaic Community Church, Gene is no stranger to service. With a house full of pets and a heart full of commitment, Gene is poised to strengthen Per Scholas’s impact in Pittsburgh and uplift learners across the Steel City.

A Bright Future Ahead

Our newest Managing Directors share a common thread: a deep belief in the transformative power of education and access. As they step into their new roles, we are filled with excitement for what’s ahead. Together, they will drive Per Scholas’ mission forward — unlocking potential and expanding economic opportunity, one city at a time.

Welcome, Joshua, Camisha, Keisha, Cedric, Kate, and Gene! We are honored to have you leading the way.

Pittsburgh, PA, May 22, 2025 — Per Scholas is excited to announce Gene Walker as the new Managing Director of Per Scholas Pittsburgh. Gene officially joined the organization earlier this year, bringing a deep commitment to education, community leadership, and workforce development to his new role.

As Managing Director, Gene will lead the strategic growth of Per Scholas Pittsburgh, building strong partnerships with staff, community-based organizations, corporations, and both private and public foundations to advance the organization’s mission of opening pathways to thriving tech careers for individuals across the Pittsburgh region.

A proud Pittsburgh native, Gene is a graduate of Peabody High School and holds a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. Deeply rooted in his community, Gene has served as an Elder at Mosaic Community Church and as Co-chair of the Pittsburgh Presbytery’s New Worshipping Communities Commission. He currently serves as a School Board Director for Pittsburgh Public Schools and holds the role of School Board President.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gene Walker to the Per Scholas leadership team,” said Plinio Ayala, Chief Executive Officer of Per Scholas. “Gene’s dedication to education, his strong community ties, and his leadership experience make him the ideal person to grow Per Scholas Pittsburgh’s impact and help transform lives through technology careers.”

Per Scholas Pittsburgh is poised for an exciting new chapter under Gene’s leadership, expanding its reach and continuing its commitment to providing no-cost, high-quality tech training to diverse talent across the region.

For more information about Per Scholas Pittsburgh, visit perscholas.org/pittsburgh.

About Per Scholas

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.