Per Scholas Philadelphia Celebrates Five Years of Community Impact with Expansion Announcement in Partnership with OIC Philadelphia
Philadelphia, P.A., May 30, 2025 — Since launching in 2019, the Per Scholas Philadelphia campus has trained more than 600 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as IT Support and Cybersecurity.
Today, alongside community and employer partners, colleagues, alumni, and friends, Per Scholas Philadelphia hosted its Five-Year Campus Celebration in Philadelphia with remarks from Claire Statchura of Comcast, Sean Sheridan of TEKsystems, Liz Newell of CHUBB, Shana Savage of Urban Technology Project, and Per Scholas Philadelphia alumni who work at those institutions. Per Scholas President Caitlyn Brazill was also in attendance.
“It’s not often that you have the chance to slow down and mark such a huge milestone. I’m grateful for all those whose lives have been touched by Per Scholas Philadelphia, the people who have worked on and off our campus to do the work, the employers who have volunteered to meet and then hire our graduates, the communities who helped spread the word, and the funders who make it all possible. The successes of those first 600 learners keeps our doors open to serve hundreds and thousands more in the years to come,“ said Joshua Park, Per Scholas Philadelphia Managing Director.
The evening’s presentation concluded with a joint announcement of a satellite Per Scholas Philadelphia classroom at OIC Philadelphia to launch in November 2025. Per Scholas’ satellite model, first launched in New York in 2021, has proven effective in expanding access to communities with limited tech training options. By combining dedicated on-site support with connected classroom learning, this model offers equal-quality training experiences, builds capacity for community partners, and creates efficient pathways to employment.
“At OIC, we’ve always believed in the power of partnership to create transformative change, and our collaboration with Per Scholas perfectly embodies this principle. In the legacy of our founder, Reverend Dr. Leon Sullivan, we’re committed to connecting our community members to family-sustaining careers with real growth potential. We’re thrilled to welcome Per Scholas as part of OIC’s workforce hub this November, where together we’ll continue breaking down barriers and building pathways to economic opportunity for Philadelphia residents,” stated Sheila Ireland, President & Chief Executive Officer OIC. “This partnership represents the kind of meaningful collaboration that creates lasting change, one life at a time.“
Per Scholas Philadelphia acknowledges Comcast, TEKsystems, and OIC Philadelphia for their generous support that made this celebration possible.
“TEKsystems’ partnership with Per Scholas has been instrumental in transforming the tech landscape of Philadelphia. By providing tuition-free, high-quality technology certification programs, Per Scholas equips learners with the necessary skills to be job-ready for positions with our clients in the Philadelphia market. This collaboration has empowered hundreds of local residents, fostering economic growth and creating a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the vibrant spirit of Philadelphia. We’re thankful to partner with such an impactful organization and are excited to see the continued impact we’ll have supporting the City of Philadelphia,” said Sean Sheridan, Team Lead, Philadelphia Delivery Center, TEKsystems.
With a proven tech training model including both in-person and remote learning hubs, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the greater Philadelphia area. Per Scholas Philadelphia is transforming lives and will continue to shape Philadelphia’s future as a thriving technology hub by equipping Per Scholas Technologists with in-demand tech skills at no cost.
To learn more about Per Scholas Philadelphia, follow them on LinkedIn or Per Scholas Philadelphia.
About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.
Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Welcoming the New Faces Leading Per Scholas Into the Future
At Per Scholas, leadership is more than a title — it’s a calling to advance economic mobility, foster opportunity, and ignite change across our communities. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce six dynamic leaders who have stepped into Managing Director roles across our campuses within the last year. Each brings a wealth of experience, a passion for education and workforce development, and a deep commitment to the cities they call home.
Meet the newest Per Scholas Managing Directors:
Joshua Park – Philadelphia (Joined May 15, 2024)
Philadelphia’s tech talent pipeline just got even stronger. Joshua Park joins Per Scholas Philadelphia after more than eight years at the West Philadelphia Skills Initiative, where he fostered career opportunities and built robust employer partnerships. Before his time at WPSI, Joshua led Sylvan Learning’s Philadelphia operations and began his career as a middle and high school math teacher. When he’s not opening doors for Philly’s future technologists, Joshua enjoys writing songs, growing tomatoes, and adventuring around town with his family — and three mischievous cats.
Camisha Beverly – Baltimore (Joined June 5, 2024)
Baltimore’s energy and ambition find a perfect match in Camisha Beverly. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing, training, and entrepreneurship, Camisha brings a unique ability to inspire, connect, and empower. Whether she’s working with brands like Vitamin Water and Volkswagen or leading new initiatives at Per Scholas Baltimore, Camisha is passionate about unlocking potential and expanding access to technical training. For her, the journey is about taking that first courageous step — and she’s ready to help countless Baltimoreans do just that.
Cedric Deadmon – Kansas City (Joined July 24, 2024)
Kansas City’s thriving tech ecosystem gains a champion in Cedric Deadmon. With 25 years of experience across workforce development, higher education, and career services, Cedric is a seasoned advocate for adult learners and credential attainment. A nationally certified College and Career Counselor, Cedric has consulted and presented nationally on strategies to boost economic mobility. Now, he brings his visionary leadership to Per Scholas Kansas City, ensuring that more residents gain access to life-changing tech careers.
Keisha Mabry Haymore – St. Louis (Joined September 4, 2024)
A TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, educator, and all-around powerhouse, Keisha Mabry Haymore now leads the charge at Per Scholas St. Louis. Keisha’s career spans classrooms, startups, and civic boards, and she’s been featured everywhere from NPR to Fast Company. With a background in education, business development, and digital marketing, Keisha embodies innovation and impact. Her mission in St. Louis? To build bridges, break barriers, and ensure that every learner has the opportunity to thrive in tech and beyond.
Kate Doyle – Chicago (Joined February 10, 2025)
With a background spanning special education, tech entrepreneurship, and corporate strategy, Kate Doyle’s leadership at Per Scholas Chicago signals bold new momentum. Before joining Per Scholas, Kate co-founded KindWork, a nonprofit focused on tech career pathways, and held senior positions in the tech industry. A civic leader on Chicago’s North Side, Kate is committed to creating opportunities that transform communities. She shares her home — and her passion for progress — with her spouse, child, and rescue dog.
Gene Walker – Pittsburgh (Joined February 19, 2025)
Per Scholas Pittsburgh welcomes homegrown leadership with the arrival of Gene Walker. A Pittsburgh native and proud Peabody High School graduate, Gene brings rich experience in education leadership and community engagement. As a School Board President for Pittsburgh Public Schools and former Elder at Mosaic Community Church, Gene is no stranger to service. With a house full of pets and a heart full of commitment, Gene is poised to strengthen Per Scholas’s impact in Pittsburgh and uplift learners across the Steel City.
A Bright Future Ahead
Our newest Managing Directors share a common thread: a deep belief in the transformative power of education and access. As they step into their new roles, we are filled with excitement for what’s ahead. Together, they will drive Per Scholas’ mission forward — unlocking potential and expanding economic opportunity, one city at a time.
Welcome, Joshua, Camisha, Keisha, Cedric, Kate, and Gene! We are honored to have you leading the way.
Per Scholas Chicago Welcomes Kate Doyle as New Managing Director
Chicago, IL, May 22, 2025 — Per Scholas is excited to announce Kate Doyle as Managing Director of Per Scholas Chicago. Kate officially assumed her role earlier this year, bringing with her a dynamic background spanning education, technology, and community development.
As Managing Director, Kate will lead the strategic growth of Per Scholas Chicago, building strong partnerships with staff, community-based organizations, corporations, and both private and public foundations to advance the organization’s mission of opening pathways to thriving tech careers for individuals across the Chicago region.
Prior to joining Per Scholas, Kate served as the CEO and co-founder of KindWork, a nonprofit focused on preparing young adults for careers in the tech sector. She has held senior roles in corporate communications, social impact, and strategy at leading technology companies, where she successfully leveraged her expertise to drive organizational growth and innovation.
Kate’s professional journey began in education as a public school special education teacher, where she cultivated her passion for empowering individuals through learning. Her commitment to community engagement continues today; she currently serves as Secretary of the Board for the 40th Ward Democratic Organization and as Urban Development Chair for the Greater Rockwell Organization in Chicago. Kate holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, a Master’s of Education from Long Island University, and a certificate in Education Finance from Georgetown University.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kate Doyle to lead Per Scholas Chicago,” said Plinio Ayala, Chief Executive Officer of Per Scholas. “Kate’s deep expertise across education, technology, and community development aligns perfectly with our mission to advance economic mobility through rigorous tech training. Under her leadership, we are confident that Per Scholas Chicago will continue to grow its impact and empower even more learners across the city.”
As Managing Director, Kate will lead Per Scholas Chicago’s strategic growth, deepen relationships with local and national partners, and help unlock opportunities for Chicagoans to build thriving careers in technology.
For more information about Per Scholas Chicago, visit perscholas.org/chicago.
About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.
Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Per Scholas Pittsburgh Welcomes Gene Walker as New Managing Director
Pittsburgh, PA, May 22, 2025 — Per Scholas is excited to announce Gene Walker as the new Managing Director of Per Scholas Pittsburgh. Gene officially joined the organization earlier this year, bringing a deep commitment to education, community leadership, and workforce development to his new role.
As Managing Director, Gene will lead the strategic growth of Per Scholas Pittsburgh, building strong partnerships with staff, community-based organizations, corporations, and both private and public foundations to advance the organization’s mission of opening pathways to thriving tech careers for individuals across the Pittsburgh region.
A proud Pittsburgh native, Gene is a graduate of Peabody High School and holds a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. Deeply rooted in his community, Gene has served as an Elder at Mosaic Community Church and as Co-chair of the Pittsburgh Presbytery’s New Worshipping Communities Commission. He currently serves as a School Board Director for Pittsburgh Public Schools and holds the role of School Board President.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gene Walker to the Per Scholas leadership team,” said Plinio Ayala, Chief Executive Officer of Per Scholas. “Gene’s dedication to education, his strong community ties, and his leadership experience make him the ideal person to grow Per Scholas Pittsburgh’s impact and help transform lives through technology careers.”
Per Scholas Pittsburgh is poised for an exciting new chapter under Gene’s leadership, expanding its reach and continuing its commitment to providing no-cost, high-quality tech training to diverse talent across the region.
For more information about Per Scholas Pittsburgh, visit perscholas.org/pittsburgh.
About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.
Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Per Scholas Announces New President Role, Promotes Chief Revenue Officer Caitlyn Brazill
Per Scholas Announces New President Role, Promotes Chief Revenue Officer Caitlyn Brazill
Newly created role will propel the organization into its 30th year of training and upskilling
BRONX, NY, April 8, 2025 – Per Scholas, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing no-cost technology training to advance economic mobility, today announced that Caitlyn Brazill has been promoted from Chief Revenue Officer to the newly established role of President, effective immediately. The move reflects Per Scholas’ commitment to accelerating its growing impact in technology workforce training across the nation.
As President, Brazill will focus on driving the execution of Per Scholas’ strategic growth plans and managing key partnerships that support learners and employers. During her eight years at Per Scholas, Brazill has been instrumental in the organization’s success, demonstrating deep expertise in workforce development, nonprofit management, and strategic partnerships. Brazill will be a driving force in reaching the 2030 goal to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually.
“I am honored to step into this new position as we celebrate our rich history while also turning the page to a new chapter,” Brazill said. “As technology continues to advance, Per Scholas is scaling impact and innovation to meet the growing demand for talent in the new AI-driven economy.”
As Per Scholas rapidly expands its footprint in workforce development, the organization is focused on launching and accelerating careers, powering businesses with ready-now tech talent, and sustaining an agile, future-ready organization. This leadership will be instrumental in driving these priorities forward—ensuring Per Scholas delivers industry-leading training, career advancement opportunities, and innovative, sustainable solutions that foster economic mobility at scale.
“It took us 30 years to launch the first 30,000 careers – now we expect to launch the next 30,000 in just five,” said Plinio Ayala, Per Scholas Chief Executive Officer. “Caitlyn has been a driving force behind Per Scholas’ growth, and her innovative and visionary thinking will continue to empower the success of our organization, our partners, and our learners as we expand our impact across the nation.”
Brazill’s promotion recognizes the leading role she’s played in Per Scholas’ transformation during her tenure, overseeing a seven-fold increase in revenue, the addition of 18 new markets, and the development of innovative solutions—such as the Zero Percent Loan initiative—to better serve learners. Brazill and Ayala will partner with Per Scholas’ experienced and dedicated leadership team to advance the organization’s bold vision of promoting economic mobility across the nation. Their goal is to help more Americans achieve the promise of the American Dream by creating more pathways to thriving-wage tech careers and fueling business growth through skilled talent and innovative workforce solutions.
To learn more about Per Scholas, visit www.perscholas.org.
About Per Scholas:
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.
Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati partners with Kentucky Career Center to open Satellite Campus in Covington
Covington, K.Y., April. 4, 2025 — Since launching in July 2015, the Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati campus has trained more than 850 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering.
Today, alongside community and employer partners, colleagues, learners, and friends, Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati hosted its Satellite Campus Launch at the Kentucky Career Center in Covington with remarks from Covington Mayor Ron Washington, Susan Culp of Archer Daniels Midland, Brent Cooper of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Correy Eimer of the Northern Kentucky Area Development District, and Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati alumnus Michael Stovall. A formal ribbon-cutting dedication and reception followed.
“We are thrilled that Northern Kentucky residents can begin preparing for their IT careers here in Covington. This satellite campus also means that local employers will have access to an amazing pool of high-quality tech talent right here in NKY,” said Dr. Roger Burns, Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati Managing Director.
“Per Scholas is a game-changer for our community, bringing opportunities for Covington residents to attain highly sought after tech industry jobs following the development of specialized skills,” said Covington Mayor Ron Washington. “Covington is increasingly focused on how we can help develop the talents of our residents who may be unemployed or underemployed but lack the resources to pay for the training they need. Through its rigorous, free training programs, Per Scholas provides solutions. I welcome the Per Scholas satellite campus to Covington, and I look forward to the life-changing impact they will have on our residents and our community.”
Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati acknowledges the generous support of Archer Daniels Midland, Duke Energy, The R.C. Furr Foundation, City of Covington Economic Development Corporation, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, and Northern Kentucky Area Development District.
With a proven tech training model including both in-person and remote learning hubs, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the state. Notably, every dollar invested in Per Scholas yields an $8 net economic return. Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati is transforming lives and will now be shaping Covington’s future as a thriving technology hub by equipping Per Scholas Technologists with in-demand tech skills at no cost.
To learn more about Per Scholas Greater Cincinnati, follow them on LinkedIn or visit their page.
About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.
Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
Sage Deepens Investment in Atlanta, Expands Partnership with Per Scholas
Sage, the global leader in accounting, financial, HR, and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) is deepening its commitment to Atlanta, GA, through a multiyear commitment to support four local Atlanta nonprofits, including Per Scholas Atlanta, as part of its expanded community investment strategy. Through a three-year partnership with Sage Foundation, Per Scholas Atlanta will train 18 adult learners annually in high-demand fields like IT support, cybersecurity, and software engineering. This support builds on Sage’s existing engagement with Per Scholas and reflects the company’s dedication to advancing digital inclusion, workforce development, and economic mobility in Atlanta.
Sherri Sims, Managing Director of Per Scholas Atlanta said, “Sage has been a valued partner for many years, supporting our learners through mock interviews and field trips. This financial commitment further amplifies their impact—every dollar invested strengthens the workforce and delivers lasting economic growth for the Atlanta community.”
Per Scholas Buffalo Alumni Taranja Lewis and Anthony Khanthavout Interviewed by The Buffalo News
Taranja Lewis and Anthony Khanthavout, alumni of Per Scholas Buffalo’s inaugural cohort, were interviewed by The Buffalo News earlier this month about their experience at Per Scholas. “Everything really, truly was in alignment for me to be here today,” said Lewis, who’s interest in Per Scholas was initially piqued by positive and commendatory comments about Per Scholas Buffalo’s Managing Director, Jeremy Besch, which Lewis found online. From there, Lewis looked into Per Scholas and was intrigued by all that the program had to offer at no cost to learners. Khanthavout, Per Scholas Buffalo’s First Valedictorian, discussed his success in the program, encouraged by his instructors.
Per Scholas Buffalo’s inaugural cohort was an IT Support course, offering the opportunity for learners to earn the Google IT Support Professional Certificate and the CompTIA A+ certification, and equips them with the knowledge to fill a wide range of entry-level technology jobs.
Watch the full interview here.
Per Scholas Celebrates 30th Anniversary by Ringing the Nasdaq Closing Bell
Per Scholas marked a historic milestone by celebrating our 30th anniversary with the prestigious honor of ringing the Nasdaq Closing Bell on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Per Scholas Chief Revenue Officer Caitlyn Brazill took the stage at Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square to commemorate this occasion, highlighting three decades of impact, transforming lives through no-cost tech training and advancing economic mobility across the nation. More than 50 members of the Per Scholas community were in attendance and onstage, including leadership, learners, and supporters, all gathered to commemorate our remarkable journey and continued commitment to launching thriving careers in the tech industry.
Ringing the closing bell at Nasdaq symbolizes Per Scholas’ enduring influence and recognition as a leader in workforce development. Over the past 30 years, we have empowered more than 30,000 learners with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in technology careers. As Per Scholas looks ahead to the future, this milestone reaffirms our dedication to innovation, inclusion, and expanding access to transformative career pathways.
“I am honored to ring the NASDAQ bell, representing the spirit of American innovation and the limitless potential of the American Dream,” Caitlyn said, surrounded by Per Scholas leaders, learners, and supporters, all united in their mission to drive economic mobility through tech.
Pam Kingpetcharat Named as Top 50 Women Leaders in Finance by Women We Admire
Pam Kingpetcharat has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Finance for 2025 by Women We Admire. As the Chief Financial Officer of Per Scholas, Pam has played a pivotal role in the organization’s financial strategy and growth. Her leadership has been instrumental in expanding Per Scholas’ reach, enabling more individuals access to high-quality tech education and career opportunities. Per Scholas proudly celebrates Kingpetcharat’s achievements and her commitment to advancing careers in the tech industry.