Per Scholas Pittsburgh Partnership Highlighted in New Policy Brief on Strengthening Workforce Outcomes Through Performance-Based Contracting

NEW YORK, NY — July 2026 — Per Scholas’ work in Pittsburgh is featured in a new policy brief by America Forward and Results for America, “Stronger Outcomes by Design: Supporting Performance-Based Contracting under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act,” which examines how outcomes-driven contracting models can strengthen public workforce investments and improve results for workers, employers, and communities.

The brief explores how performance-based contracting can help workforce systems prioritize measurable outcomes, increase flexibility for providers, and better support individuals facing barriers to employment. The paper highlights Per Scholas’ partnership with Partner4Work through the Industry Recognized Training Pipeline (IRTP) program as an example of how workforce organizations can align around shared goals to deliver stronger career outcomes.

Through IRTP, Per Scholas Pittsburgh has supported hundreds of learners in gaining technology skills and preparing for careers in the tech industry. The partnership demonstrates the impact of shifting from a traditional vendor relationship to a results-oriented approach that emphasizes accountability, collaboration, and learner success.

“Partnering with Partner4Work through IRTP has offered Per Scholas an impactful alternative to the traditional vendor-based model,” said Gene Walker, Managing Director of Per Scholas Pittsburgh. “This shift from a standard vendor relationship to a strategic partnership fosters deeper collaboration, allowing both organizations to overcome administrative hurdles and align on clear, results-oriented performance goals.”

Partnerships can provide workforce providers with greater flexibility to deliver the services learners need to succeed, while ensuring public investments are connected to meaningful outcomes. Per Scholas’ approach reflects the organization’s commitment to building effective workforce solutions that connect individuals to technology careers and help employers access skilled talent.

As Per Scholas continues to expand its impact nationwide, partnerships like IRTP demonstrate the importance of collaboration among workforce systems, training providers, and employers to create stronger pathways to economic mobility.

Read the full policy brief: https://www.americaforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/America-Forward-_RFA_Performance-Based-Contracting-Brief.pdf