Tamia Cotton

Tamia Cotton never imagined her career in cybersecurity would begin on the warehouse floor. While working at Amazon and juggling classes for a degree in Computer Science, she dreamed of joining the tech industry. But no matter the motivation, a persistent gap held her back: she lacked hands-on experience and a degree. “That was a big barrier,” Tamia recalls. “I knew I had potential, but couldn’t get my foot in the door.”

Tamia’s situation changed when she discovered Per Scholas Philadelphia. The no-cost cybersecurity training program offered her more than just a curriculum, it offered a path forward. 

“I realized if I wanted to work in a technical field, I had to get serious about gaining experience,” Tamia said. The option to choose a hybrid format kept her connected with peers while managing her schedule. Still, committing to an intensive technical program while working and attending college took courage. “It was a leap, but I knew it was what I needed.”

At Per Scholas, Tamia found more than training…she found transformation. She earned her CompTIA CYSA+ certification and sharpened her skills in areas like server configuration, firewalls, and network security. But what stood out most was the holistic support. “We didn’t just learn tech, we learned how to build resumes, how to present ourselves, and how to operate in professional spaces,” she said. The program emphasized self-paced learning and coachability, pushing her to take ownership of her growth. It was rigorous, and at times overwhelming, but Tamia stayed committed. The support of her cohort, instructors, and career coaches made the difference. “They gave us the tools, but also showed us how to use them in the real world.”

Shortly after completing the program, Tamia landed an apprenticeship and, within months, transitioned into a full-time role as an IT Security Analyst. “I thought I’d spend months job hunting, but everything moved quickly. It felt surreal.” In her current position, she works in identity governance and access management, directly applying what she learned through her CYSA+ training. From handling access policies to supporting internal cybersecurity operations, Tamia is thriving. “I never imagined I’d be doing this kind of technical work so soon.”

Tamia’s life looks entirely different now. Personally and professionally, she’s grown into someone who confidently navigates corporate life and knows how to seize new opportunities. She’s also paying it forward, referring others in her community to Per Scholas and showing them what’s possible. “People don’t realize that every company is a tech company. There are multiple ways to reach your goals.”

Tamia now plans to finish her bachelor’s degree, pursue a master’s, and become an expert in cybersecurity. For those considering Per Scholas, her advice is simple: “If you can make time for your friends, you can make time to invest in yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Per Scholas is here to support you.”

When asked to sum up her Per Scholas experience in one word, Tamia doesn’t hesitate: “Enlightening.”

Through her journey with Per Scholas, she hasn’t just launched a new career: she’s become a powerful example of what’s possible when talent is nurtured and access is equitable. Per Scholas doesn’t just train individuals; it transforms futures. It changes lives.