Guided by Vision: The Leaders Empowering Tech’s Next Generation

At Per Scholas, the work we do is fueled by passionate leaders who ensure that learners and alumni across the country have access to the opportunities they deserve, and empower them to thrive in their tech careers. Among those leading the charge are Jackie Anderson and Claire Cuno, whose work behind the scenes is shaping the future for thousands of individuals striving for careers in tech.

Jackie Anderson, VP of National Recruitment, Applicant Process, and Tech Integration, is the driving force behind making sure prospective learners have a clear and seamless path into Per Scholas programs. From the first moment someone hears about Per Scholas to the day they begin their training, Jackie’s team is innovating processes to make the journey more accessible, understandable, and efficient.

“My role excites me because I get to play a part in our work supporting learners, especially those from backgrounds you don’t typically see in tech, as they transform their lives,” Jackie shares. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to innovate our processes, not only to support our learners and organizational growth but also to empower our Recruitment & Admissions staff, ensuring they can provide the best possible support.” With a background in community engagement and program development, she continues to drive efficiency and growth, helping Per Scholas expand its reach and impact. 

Jackie’s impact can be seen in the numbers—since 2018, she has spearheaded recruitment for over 15 expansion projects, growing Per Scholas from six to twenty-four campuses. She has also led efforts that have quadrupled annual applications from 17,488 in 2021 to over 70,000 in 2024. But beyond the data, the true measure of her work is in the success stories, like that of a former hairdresser she recruited in Dallas. After completing Per Scholas training, that learner landed a role with a major tech employer and has since grown into multiple positions within the company.

While Jackie focuses on bringing learners into Per Scholas, Claire Cuno ensures they have the support they need to thrive. As Senior Director of the Learner Support Team, Claire leads with strategy, innovation, and a deep commitment to holistic learner success.

“Our work is about more than technical training—it’s about providing the comprehensive support learners need to succeed in their careers and beyond,” Claire says. Under her leadership, the team has introduced new service delivery models, built an MSW intern pipeline, and strengthened the connection between social work, financial capability, and workforce development.

Claire recalls a moment early in her career at Per Scholas that continues to fuel her passion—a cohort of learners in the TechBridge program in the Bronx. “These were incredibly talented 18-24-year-olds who just needed a chance and extra support to build their confidence,” she remembers. Taking them to the Salesforce office in Manhattan for mock interviews was a turning point. “For most of them, it was their first time in a corporate setting. They showed up in suits, nervous but prepared. And they crushed those interviews. You could see the transformation—the pride on their faces was incredible.” Many from that cohort have gone on to build stable, growing careers in tech, lifting up not just themselves but their families and communities as well.

Claire’s leadership is deeply influenced by her background in social work, community organizing, and even youth arts education. “There’s a common thread in all of it—understanding different perspectives and solving problems together,” she reflects. Her experience as a former athlete also shapes how she leads. “I was captain of my soccer and lacrosse teams, and I bring that same mindset to my team—anticipating needs, working through challenges together, and always striving to be the best.”

Since Claire started, she has been able to scale the Learner Support Team from a single position to a robust staff of 15 full-time Licensed Clinical and Masters-level Social Workers and Financial Coaches, complemented by 20 social work interns from nearly 15 universities nationwide. “Our impact has been measurable—we almost tripled learner engagements over the past year, from 7,760 engagements in 2023 to nearly 20,000 in 2024, with data confirming that those who consistently connect with the Learner Support Team maintain higher enrollment and graduation rates than non-participants,” Clair reflected. In 2025, Per Scholas will intentionally expand our work to post-graduation support, with over 25% of our engagement now focused on helping alumni navigate toward thriving wages.

Looking ahead, Claire is focused on expanding the capacity of the Learner Support Team and ensuring their work aligns with Per Scholas’ broader mission. “Personal and financial wellness truly matter for long-term career success. This isn’t just a nice addition to technical training—it’s essential,” she says. She envisions a future where Per Scholas continues to set the standard for holistic support in workforce development, demonstrating that access to opportunity is only the beginning.

Jackie and Claire, along with so many others at Per Scholas, are making sure that learners don’t just enter the tech industry but thrive in it. Their leadership, innovation, and commitment are shaping pathways for individuals to build lasting, meaningful careers—proving that when access meets opportunity, the possibilities are endless.