Gene (Mikee) Diamante

Gene “Mikee” Diamante’s journey didn’t start with a job offer; it started with a decision. A decision to believe there was more ahead for him, and that a future in tech was within reach if he built the right foundation. Before he ever set foot in a Per Scholas Seattle classroom, Gene was already putting in the work: earning his CompTIA A+, Google AI Essentials, and Google Technical Support Fundamentals credentials. Every step reaffirmed that he wasn’t just learning new tools; he was rewriting what was possible for his career.

That momentum led him to Per Scholas Seattle, where training became transformation. Immersed in an intensive, hands-on IT Support program, Gene wasn’t just studying; he was doing. 

He delved into labs, broke down real-world troubleshooting scenarios, worked side by side with classmates, and grew under the guidance of instructors who saw his potential even before he fully recognized it himself. With each week, his technical skills sharpened, but so did his confidence. Per Scholas provided him with a place to practice, to push himself, and to envision a future in tech that felt attainable.

As Gene progressed, the work paid off. His new skills evolved into credentials and portfolio pieces that demonstrated his readiness for the industry. This was the pivotal shift — from learning to demonstrating, from aspiring to qualifying. Per Scholas helped bridge that gap, ensuring Gene didn’t just gain knowledge, but gained the credibility and readiness employers look for.

When Fidelis leadership visited Gene’s cohort, he didn’t just sit in the back listening; he leaned in. He asked questions, made connections, and showed the drive that would later set him apart. What could have been just another classroom visit became the spark that connected Gene to a pathway he hadn’t imagined — proof of how powerful employer partnerships are in opening doors for Per Scholas learners.

Soon after graduation, Gene launched his career as a Managed IT Support Technician at Fidelis. He stepped into the role equipped, confident, and ready — not just because of the certifications he held, but because Per Scholas had prepared him for real-world success. Today, he supports clients, solves complex challenges, and continues to grow in a field that’s constantly evolving.

And he’s only getting started. With opportunities for continued learning, new certifications, and access to a strong employer network, Gene is building a long-term career in Seattle’s thriving tech sector. His story embodies the full impact of Per Scholas — a journey powered by determination, strengthened by high-quality training, and accelerated by deep employer partnerships.

His story represents the complete learner experience Per Scholas strives to provide: opportunity, access, community, and upward mobility.