Akintunde Akinwande

Akintunde Akinwande knows a thing or two about chasing dreams — and about choosing to chase new ones when the time is right.

Before stepping into the world of technology, Akintunde had already built a remarkable career in the music industry. As a Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter with multiple Billboard-charting hits, his work has touched audiences around the world.

But success, he realized, doesn’t always guarantee long-term growth or stability. And in time, he found himself asking a critical question: “I wanted a career that offered continuous learning and future relevance. Technology kept coming up as the foundation of innovation, and I knew I had to make a move,” he shares. 

That decision marked a turning point, one that would lead him to Per Scholas and to a future he could build himself.

A New Direction, A Steep Climb

Despite his creative success, Akintunde entered the tech world as a complete newcomer. He describes the experience as “standing at the base of a mountain without a map.”

But Per Scholas changed that: “They gave me the roadmap, structure, accountability, and hands-on training. More importantly, they believed in me,” he says. “The instructors, the staff, the community. They created an environment where I felt seen and supported. That made a profound difference.”

Through immersive, real-world training, Akintunde learned about:

• Rack and stack servers
• Troubleshooting live environments
• Configuring complex networks 
• And more 

These experiences allowed him more than technical know-how. They gave him confidence.

“Rather than passively learning, we were doing. It prepared me to walk into interviews, and later, into my current role, knowing I belonged there.”

From Per Scholas to TEKsystems: Real-World Impact

After graduating and being named Valedictorian of his Data Center cohort, Akintunde joined TEKsystems, where he now works on network hardware, server maintenance, and data center logistics. It’s a role that not only reflects his training, but supports his bigger vision: to grow into a career in cloud engineering.

At TEKsystems, Akintunde is expanding his professional network, applying new skills daily, and continuing to learn, especially through industry certifications he’s actively pursuing.

His perspective on tech has also evolved dramatically. Once, he thought tech careers were limited to coding or help desk roles. Now, he sees a vast ecosystem filled with possibilities: cybersecurity, networking, cloud infrastructure, AI, and more.

“It’s not just about getting a job anymore. It’s about building a dynamic, evolving career,” Akintunde says. 

Support & Growth Mindset

Throughout his journey, Akintunde credits his family, Per Scholas instructors, and mentors at TEKsystems with helping him stay grounded and motivated.

“They saw potential in me even when I was still finding my footing,” he says. “Their belief in me built the confidence I carry today.”

When asked what mindset he uses most in his current role, his answer is immediate: adaptability.

“The tech landscape is constantly evolving. At Per Scholas, we were taught to embrace that, to stay curious, be flexible, and solve problems with confidence. That mindset guides me every day.”

A Story of Reinvention and What’s Possible

Akintunde’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity, and when the right support makes all the difference. At Per Scholas, we’re proud to be part of his journey and inspired by the resilience, humility, and ambition he brings to the tech world.

“Tech gave me the chance to reinvent myself,” he reflects. “And Per Scholas gave me the tools to do it.”

Join us in celebrating Akintunde Akinwande’s journey — and the limitless potential of our alumni community. Read the full Q&A feature. 

Original Q&A session by Kaitlyn Begay, Manager of Recruitment & Admissions, Per Scholas Phoenix