Per Scholas is honored to be featured in The New York Times article by Steve Lohr, which explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the software engineering field and the role of workforce development programs in preparing talent for the future.

The article highlights how Per Scholas, through its no-cost technology training programs, is equipping individuals with in-demand skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving tech industry. As AI changes the nature of coding and software development, Per Scholas’s training ensures that aspiring technologists have the foundational knowledge and adaptability to succeed.

A key highlight of the article is the success story of Ismail FoFana, a Per Scholas graduate who leveraged the training and career support offered by the program to break into the tech industry. His journey is a testament to the power of high-quality, accessible education in creating life-changing opportunities and addressing the talent gap in the sector.

Per Scholas remains committed to our mission of advancing economic mobility by providing rigorous tech training, career development, and employer connections to our learners. As AI continues to reshape the workforce, our role in fostering a skilled pipeline of tech talent has never been more critical.

Read the full New York Times article here.

Per Scholas is proud to highlight MDRC’s recent brief, Navigating Job Search Challenges, which examines the job search experiences of our IT Support graduates. The study reaffirms the strong, lasting earnings impact of our tech training while also identifying challenges some graduates face in securing jobs aligned with their skills—particularly during a weaker labor market.

Through our partnership with MDRC, we are using these insights to refine our job search support, ensuring our alumni have the resources needed to succeed. Read the full brief here.

We are thrilled to announce that Per Scholas North Carolina has received a $1 million, two-year grant from The BlackRock Foundation to support workforce development and economic recovery efforts across the state. This transformative funding will help us expand our programs into western North Carolina, bridging the state’s tech workforce gap and providing job training in rural communities.

Through our partnership with Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, we will offer bootcamp-style IT training designed to equip individuals with the skills needed for remote, high-paying tech jobs. With North Carolina’s tech industry experiencing significant growth—an 18% increase in job postings over the past year—this initiative is critical in ensuring that rural communities have access to these emerging opportunities.

This support comes at a crucial time as Western North Carolina continues to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene, which displaced thousands and led to widespread job loss. By offering accessible, no-cost training, we are helping residents transition into sustainable tech careers, fostering long-term economic stability in the region.

Over the next two years, this grant will allow us to provide 13-week IT training to 530 students, with a goal of reaching 2,000 North Carolinians by 2029. Our first IT Support cohort will begin on February 24, and applications are now open on our website.

Since launching in North Carolina in 2020, Per Scholas has remained committed to creating economic mobility through technology training. With the continued support of partners like The BlackRock Foundation, we are strengthening our impact and helping to shape the future of North Carolina’s workforce.

When it comes to tech hubs in the United States, a few cities or regions typically come to mind. Of course, there’s Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay area. You might think of Fishkill, New York, where IBM innovated for decades in facilities that now belong to the semiconductor giant GlobalFoundries. Now, there’s a new city establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing hubs for IT tech talent in America — Houston, Texas.

While Austin has traditionally been associated with the tech industry in the Lone Star State, Houston is quickly becoming the new IT capital of Texas. As CIO Magazine said in March 2024, “Houston has emerged as a top Texas competitor to Austin for tech companies, entrepreneurs, and employees who are looking for a lower cost of living.”

The magazine further reported on the tech investment in the city: “In the past five years, venture-backed startups in Houston have received more than $6 billion in venture capital funding, with the city launching more than 80 startup development organizations (SDOs).” 

At the center of all this growth is the Ion District, described by the Greater Houston Partnership as a “16-acre innovation community and economic engine.” It’s no coincidence that the nonprofit IT training organization Per Scholas chose to open its Houston tech training facility in the Ion District, creating a homegrown talent network for Houston’s thriving tech scene.

The ION District and Per Scholas: A Perfect Pair for Houston

According to the Ion District’s 2024 Community Investment Report, workforce development for Houston IT employers is a major focus. That’s out of necessity, as the district’s Houston Facts report noted Houston’s leading position in tech job posting growth nationwide in 2022, with a remarkable 45.6% year-over-year increase.

Per Scholas opened its Houston facility in July 2023, and the timing was right for an IT workforce development partnership. The Ion District and Per Scholas teamed up for a Tech Job Training and Talent Placement Program. In a short time, the program has seen significant growth, receiving over 930 applications, enrolling 48 students across three cohorts, and achieving a 21-graduate milestone. 

Diversity in Tech Training: Opportunities for Everyone

Another thing that makes Per Scholas and the Ion District a good match is their shared commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Working together, Per Scholas and the Ion District strive to provide IT career opportunities and equitable access for all members of the Houston community. 

The latest Per Scholas stats show that 85 percent of their learners are people of color. More than 40 percent identify as women, and more than half have a high school diploma for their highest education credential.

For its part, the Ion District actively promotes diversity within Houston’s tech ecosystem through its Inclusive Tech Accelerator and Inclusive Tech Investment Fund. This initiative is backed by a combined $6.5 million investment from Rice University, providing crucial support to minority and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) in advancing their products and services.

The district has also implemented an MWBE Outreach and Technical Assistance program, hosting seven events attended by over 800 individuals. This program connects MWBEs with expert advisors to guide them in navigating and capitalizing on economic development opportunities within the Ion District.

Per Scholas IT Courses Offered in Houston

Per Scholas’ Houston facility offers industry-standard training across a wide range of IT subjects to equip alumni with the most in-demand skills. One of the more popular Per Scholas programs is the IT Support course. Learners receive comprehensive training in IT support fundamentals, culminating in the prestigious Google IT Support Professional Certificate and the industry-standard CompTIA A+ certification. 

Designed for individuals with no prior IT experience or coursework, Per Scholas programs like the IT Support course equip learners with the practical skills and knowledge sought after by employers in Houston’s rapidly evolving tech sector.

For those with some previous experience, Per Scholas offers the Software Engineer program. This 15-week course covers front-end development with React and back-end development with Node.js. It then moves into advanced topics like design patterns and system architecture. Recognizing the rapid pace of technological advancement, the curriculum undergoes a thorough review and updates every two quarters to ensure learners have the most relevant and up-to-date skills.

Learn More About Per Scholas Houston Tech Training

Houston is a natural fit for Per Scholas, as the national nonprofit organization has a long history of providing IT training where it can make the most impact. Besides Houston, Per Scholas operates in several major cities across the United States, including New York City, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Atlanta, Detroit, and more.

At all their locations, Per Scholas programs offer intensive, skills-based training programs emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Per Scholas has also implemented several successful job placement programs across its facilities, ensuring alumni can secure good jobs in their local technology sectors. To learn more, view the upcoming courses at Per Scholas Houston.

In 2025, the tech landscape will continue to evolve as new trends, innovations, and hurdles emerge. 

Whether considering the impact of new technologies, security concerns, regulation challenges, or sustainability goals, tech leaders must source the right talent. However, building these teams is not always straightforward. Tech leaders will face skills gaps and competition for talent while aiming to meet DEI goals. 

Per Scholas can help address these concerns by offering a strategic solution via no-cost training programs that build a skilled and diverse talent pipeline. Here’s what to consider. 

The Evolving Tech Talent Landscape

While the tech industry continues to evolve exponentially, the demand for skilled talent is soaring. However, over 60% of tech leaders agree that hiring top talent is a major obstacle. Being aware of what’s required will help these leaders pinpoint who they need on their teams and how they’ll obtain that talent. Staying on top of tech trends will help them better navigate this process. 

Focusing on the latest trends will help tech leaders better prepare for the year ahead, including the following:

• The rise of new technologies like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing requires specialized skills and training, transforming the talent acquisition process.  
• A rising demand for adaptive, forward-thinking technologists who offer forward-thinking perspectives will be required to grow and innovate. 
• An increased focus on remote and hybrid workforces, as tech leaders understand these models require some fine-tuning to enhance optimal productivity and collaboration. Automation, AI, the evolution of cybersecurity, and continuous learning will all play a role in achieving top-performing remote and hybrid teams. 

The Talent Shortage Must Be Addressed

As niche technology skills become more important, tech leaders face challenges surrounding this specialized talent. Traditional hiring methods aren’t meeting the demand for these unique skill sets — which can lead to prolonged hiring processes and missed opportunities. These vacancies can be costly, which is why talent shortages should be a top priority in 2025 — followed by retention strategies to keep that talent. 

Traditional methods of assessing a candidate do not always consider specialized skills and how an individual will contribute to an organization’s cultural fit and diversity. Even when they do, the hiring process can be lengthy. 

Data shows that when considering all tech roles, the average time to fill a position is 62 days, whereas it takes an average of 70.5 days to hire a senior data scientist. So, depending on the roles you need to fill, it can be challenging to source a candidate, and when you do, it’s not an overnight process. 

The costs of these vacancies can be significant — especially when considering lost productivity and the potential security risks.

Key Challenges Tech Leaders Face in Hiring

Finding tech talent isn’t easy, especially when positions are in high demand or organizations lack the internal systems and processes to hire top talent. Here are some of the primary challenges tech leaders face today.

The Skills Gap

• Many candidates lack the practical, job-ready skills that organizations need, which is why tech training, as are apprenticeships, are so crucial.
• Rapid technological advancements are outpacing traditional educational systems. There is a new era of learning that requires a specialized approach to obtain top-tier talent. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

• Building teams that reflect broader societal diversity is becoming increasingly important for innovation and competitiveness. However, the tech industry continues to struggle with a lack of diverse representation.

Learn more about Diverse by Design and how its initiatives contribute to better business outcomes. 

Budget Constraints

• Rising costs of traditional hiring and training remain an issue when seeking top tech talent. Therefore, it will remain paramount to focus on a cost-effective hiring and talent acquisition strategy that yields a healthy ROI. 

Why Per Scholas is the Answer to Modern Hiring Challenges

The challenges organizations and tech leaders face heading into 2025 can be addressed by partnering with Per Scholas. Here are some reasons why. 

No-Cost, High-Quality Training

• Per Scholas offers no-cost training to individuals, reducing hiring costs for companies while improving retention rates. 
• These training courses focus on in-demand skills like cybersecurity, cloud computing, software development, and more.

Practical, Job-Ready Skills

• Per Scholas, learners are trained based on the latest technologies, tools, and methodologies.
• Partnerships with industry leaders ensure alignment with real-world requirements. 

Diversity-Driven Talent Pool

• Per Scholas learners in 2024 were 85% POC and 42% women. Support is offered to increase diversity in the tech workforce, including resources like Women in Tech. 
• Per Scholas can help organizations meet their DEI goals, as courses and resources are developed based on the unique challenges faced by women, gender-diverse, people of color, neurodiverse, veterans, people with disabilities, etc. 

Learn more: Per Scholas & TEKsystems: Four Tips for Evaluating Your Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy.

Proven Track Record

• Per Scholas alumni unlock their potential and move into specialized tech positions, helping them find rewarding technology careers while contributing to business success. Explore alumni stories to see the talent associated with Per Scholas. 
• Data shows that employees trained at Per Scholas lower turnover rates by 30%. These individuals also support lower recruiting costs and the development of a diversified tech team. 

Related: Why hire a Per Scholas graduate?

How Tech Leaders Can Partner with Per Scholas

When considering the latest hiring trends and advances in technology, it’s critical that tech leaders leverage the right partnerships. Options to partner with Per Scholas include:

• Custom hiring solutions: Explore opportunities to co-design training programs tailored to your specific needs. This strategy will help you optimize the ROI of your hiring in tech processes. 
• Internship and apprenticeship programs: Bridge-to-hire pathways that allow employers to evaluate talent while building practical experience.
• Corporate sponsorships: Collaborate to expand training initiatives and invest in the future of tech talent.

Take an Innovative Approach to Hiring in 2025 

In 2025, tech leaders will need to take a more innovative approach when aiming to build a top-talent tech team. If you’re in this position, seeking tech talent, a partnership with Per Scholas is the solution you seek. 

Let’s shape the future of tech together. Partner with Per Scholas to find your next hire.

Learn more or schedule a consultation with Per Scholas today!

For updates and stories, check out the following Per Scholas accounts:

• Twitter
• LinkedIn

Per Scholas is thrilled to have been featured in the New York Times, celebrating our success in preparing underemployed and underrepresented individuals for cutting-edge tech careers.

For nearly three decades, Per Scholas has offered free, comprehensive training programs that have transformed lives and careers across the nation. From its humble beginnings in the South Bronx in 1995, Per Scholas has expanded to 24 cities and trained over 25,000 people, with 85% being people of color and 40% women. Our organization also works closely with tech employers to ensure that graduates possess in-demand skills upon graduation, and offers professional development training and job attainment support for learners. A rigorous analysis from MDRC  found that, by 2020, the economic benefits of the training – including increased wages and reduced dependence on social services – totaled an estimated 800% of the training costs.

Per Scholas’s commitment to providing free, high-quality training is made possible through donor support, with contributions directly funding various aspects of the program, from textbooks to comprehensive learning support. The New York Times Communities Fund has supported Per Scholas since 2023, helping to maintain our policy of never charging learners for any aspect of their training.

Read the full article here.

The tech industry has seen rapid evolution over the past decade — even the past couple of years have been transformative. While the advancements have been significant, creating a ripple effect throughout nearly every industry, the IT industry in 2025 is poised for another pivotal year in technology. 

Research shows that an estimated 89% of IT structures will undergo some form of re-design in 2025, requiring a new focus on current and emerging IT skills. There is already a major skills gap and an urgency for reskilling, especially in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).

Workforce readiness is imperative to prepare for the opportunities ahead. Here is what to consider for those seeking a role in the fast-growing tech industry. 

Tech Trends Shaping Jobs in 2025

The following trends will continue to shape and evolve the tech industry. These trends influence everything from healthcare to finance. Focusing on these trends and the opportunities they’ll present will help the workforce of tomorrow choose interesting and in-demand roles. 

• Artificial intelligence and machine Learning: Expanding applications in business automation, healthcare, and personalized experiences — just to name a few. The key will be to align talent with tech innovation. 
• Quantum computing: Breakthroughs in solving complex problems, cryptography, and optimization. There are opportunities for major scientific achievements that could advance everything from route planning to drug discoveries, thanks to the latest algorithms. 
• Sustainable tech initiatives: Growth of green technologies, energy-efficient computing, and eco-friendly supply chains. Again, AI, blockchain, and IoT will all shape sustainability practices and revolutionize industries. In 2025, more cities will also take a green approach via smart urban technologies. 
• Extended reality (XR): The evolution of AR/VR technologies in entertainment, education, and enterprise solutions will drive the development of unique workforce demands across healthcare, real estate, retail, manufacturing, and many other industries. 
• Cybersecurity innovations: The increasing demand for robust protection in the age of IoT and decentralized networks will drive a need for those with specific cybersecurity skills. Cybersecurity apprenticeship programs can provide a gateway into this area. There are also roles, such as security analysts, requiring cryptocurrency-related knowledge and skills. 
• Web3 and blockchain: Redefining finance, ownership, and digital interactions. Up until now, businesses tied to Web3 have relied on regulatory clarity. However, 2025 is anticipated to be a big year concerning market activity, adoption, and innovation. 

Skills in Demand for 2025 and Beyond

Many are already embarking on a path that prepares them for the skills that are growing in demand. Whether taking your first certification course or upskilling, lifelong learning will remain imperative when working in the tech industry — especially in the coming years as IT infrastructures shift. 

The following areas should be approached with the mentality of lifelong learning, with many of these being high-demand IT jobs in 2025:

• Cloud computing
• Data analytics and engineering
• Cybersecurity expertise
• Software development with a focus on AI integration

Soft skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication in multidisciplinary teams will also be relevant. These essential skills are imperative for anyone who strives to become an IT expert. 

Bridging the Skills Gap with Per Scholas

Those already in the industry see the importance of reskilling in 2025 and beyond. Those not investing in lifelong IT learning will lose their competitive edge. However, those who invest in bridging skill gaps now could become leaders moving into the future. 

Introducing Per Scholas

Per Scholas can help by offering free, high-quality, no-cost tech training, where more than 25,000 alumni have launched successful tech careers. Per Scholas’ goal is to unlock potential, create pathways for those from diverse backgrounds, and change the face of technology. 

Per Scholas equips learners with in-demand skills that align with industry needs. These skills shape the programs offered, focusing on the latest trends and how they relate to today’s modern workforce. These programs are designed to empower future technologists —  those who have the potential to make a difference in the tech space. 

Read more about what Per Scholas alumni have to say about their experiences. 

Throughout the process, Per Scholas highlights the importance and impact of diversity and inclusion within the tech industry. This goal is achieved through targeted outreach and support programs, such as unlocking the potential of the military community. 

Creating a Pipeline of Skilled Hires

Once learners complete their education, Per Scholas helps them enter the industry through employer partnerships. Per Scholas provides these employers with a pipeline of skilled, passionate hires — everyone wins. IT jobs in 2025 will be in high demand, with employers seeking candidates who can provide them with a competitive advantage. Once this demand spikes, alumni who have their foot in the door can create a meaningful, high-income career — without having to pay for their initial education. 

How Per Scholas and Similar Programs Shape the Future of Work

Per Scholas develops customized training for IT jobs in 2025 and beyond. The curricula are based on employers’ evolving needs and industry demands. Learners are provided with certifications and hands-on experience, making them hire-ready. 

Financial support, mentorship, and career placement assistance are offered to address socioeconomic barriers and help alumni progress. The aim is to make tech accessible when the industry and employers need it most. 

Are You a Potential Tech Employee or an Organization Seeking New Hires?

Per Scholas helps both sides of the fence — employees and employers. 

For Employees:

• Embrace lifelong learning to remain competitive
• Explore mentorship opportunities to uplift the next generation of technologists

For Organizations:

• Support initiatives like Per Scholas through sponsorships, partnerships, or hiring graduates
• Invest in diverse talent pipelines to fuel innovation and equity

Take an Active Approach to the IT Industry in 2025

In 2024, the tech industry will see transformative trends requiring specialized training. 

Initiatives like Per Scholas will prepare a future-ready, inclusive workforce for all. 

Ready to take an active role in shaping tomorrow’s tech workforce? Learn more about launching your career, or if you have questions about hiring, you can talk to a Talent Solutions expert today!

The energy sector stands at a crossroads, facing a stark choice: evolve or stagnate. As demands for renewable energy surge and infrastructure modernization become critical, as a result of a significant skills gap that current hiring practices alone struggle to address. For instance, a McKinsey Global Survey reported that 87% of executives either are experiencing skill gaps now or expect them within a few years, underscoring the urgency for change. Yet we remain tied to outdated recruitment models that often exclude one-quarter of potential workers simply because they lack a four-year degree. 

The evidence is compelling: companies with diverse management teams experience 19% higher revenue, according to Harvard Business Review. This isn’t just about meeting quotas; it’s about survival. In an era where data analysts, software developers, and cybersecurity specialists form the backbone of our energy future, we cannot afford to limit our talent pool.

These professionals aren’t peripheral to our mission—they’re the architects of smart grids, the guardians of our digital infrastructure, and the strategists optimizing our energy consumption. Their diverse perspectives enhance our resilience against cybersecurity threats and drive the creative problem-solving needed for the complexities of modern energy systems.

“I’ve seen how the lack of diversity, particularly in high-growth sectors like energy, stifles innovation and limits opportunity,” says Ed Veloz, Senior Human Resources Business Partner at Bloomberg. “The sector’s shift towards renewable energy and sustainable practices demands a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities. By investing in diverse talent pipelines and skills-based hiring, we not only address the immediate skills gap but also ensure that underrepresented groups have equitable access to these emerging opportunities. It’s not just about filling roles; it’s about building a more inclusive and resilient industry that can meet the complex challenges ahead.”

Breaking Down Barriers, Building Up Talent

The solution demands more than incremental change. We must fundamentally reimagine how we identify, develop, and support talent. Skills-based hiring—emphasizing capabilities over credentials—represents a crucial first step. Organizations like Per Scholas and the JPI Group are already demonstrating how targeted training can transform lives and industries by tapping into the talent of underrepresented communities.

“At The JPI Group, we are committed to ensuring that underrepresented talent plays a crucial role in the energy transition,” said Paul Douglas, President. “Through our partnership with Per Scholas, we’re building pathways for graduates to enter key sectors like utilities, renewables, clean transportation, energy storage, and energy efficiency. Together, we’re creating a more diverse, inclusive, and impactful energy workforce.”

Consider the power of apprenticeships and internships in this transformation. These programs do more than provide hands-on experience—they create vital pathways into the industry for talented individuals who might otherwise never find their way to energy careers. When combined with strategic mentorship programs connecting trainees with experienced professionals, we create a powerful ecosystem of support and growth. Scholarships and innovative pay-for-performance structures can provide crucial financial support, opening doors for talented individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who have long been excluded from the energy industry.

The complexity of today’s energy landscape demands more than just technical expertise. We need diverse perspectives to drive breakthrough solutions, enhance strategic thinking, and improve operational resilience. As the energy industry grapples with rising regulatory standards and evolving customer demands for sustainable practices, the value of diverse thinking becomes even more apparent.

“The energy industry encompasses a wide array of science, technology, and business disciplines, which need a diverse workforce to bring a broad social perspective to its future,” said Rashida Ricks, Vice President of Strategic Engagement and Business Operations at CGI Partner, an information technology and business consulting firm. “As the clean energy transition in the U.S. progresses, it is crucial to include the voices of those disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards and those who lack access to resources. This article demonstrates why CGI partners with organizations like Per Scholas to build diverse, energy-knowledgeable, and tech-fluent talent pipelines that can address the needs of these underserved communities.”

This goes beyond traditional Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics. Energy stakeholders increasingly demand that companies demonstrate genuine social responsibility, and effective ESG strategies resonate deeply with investors and customers alike. A commitment to diversity isn’t just about meeting metrics—it’s about strengthening the industry’s social license to operate and building lasting trust with the communities they serve.

The Path Forward

The energy sector powers society’s progress, and our workforce should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. This isn’t just about fairness—it’s essential for innovation and long-term survival. The challenges we face—from cybersecurity threats to the transition to renewable energy—demand the fullest expression of human potential.

Industry leaders must embrace a comprehensive transformation of their approach to talent. This means moving beyond traditional recruiting to embrace skills-based hiring across all levels. It means investing in apprenticeship and training programs that create real pathways to success. It means building mentorship initiatives that support long-term career development and providing meaningful financial support for non-traditional candidates. Above all, it means partnering with organizations like Per Scholas that specialize in developing diverse talent and creating sustainable career pathways.

The transition to a more sustainable, equitable energy future isn’t just about technology—it’s about people. By breaking down barriers and creating inclusive pathways to employment, we can build a more innovative, resilient, and powerful energy workforce. As we face unprecedented challenges in modernizing our infrastructure and meeting growing demands for renewable energy, the diversity of our workforce will determine our ability to innovate and adapt.

The future of our industry—and our planet—depends on our ability to think differently about potential. The transformation begins now. Connect with Per Scholas today to explore how we can build your future workforce together.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rafael Gerena

communications@perscholas.org | 689-239-3127

Social Finance Partners with Per Scholas to Offer Living Expense Loans to Learners

The Zero Percent Loan program helps participants to cover living expenses with support from Social Finance, a grantee of the Google Career Certificates Fund

Boston, MA and New York, NY (December 16, 2024)—Social Finance, a leader in innovative workforce investments, has partnered with Per Scholas on a pilot program that offers living expense loans to participants in Per Scholas’ three-month, no-cost IT Support training program. The Zero Percent Loan (ZPL) program helps participants to cover living expenses while they complete the Google IT Support Certificate—training for in-demand, well-paying jobs with pathways to economic mobility—allowing them to focus on gaining the skills needed for these careers.

There are many good jobs that need to be filled, but they often require a degree or credential. These training programs are out of reach for many prospective participants who must decide between pursuing training and working so that they can cover their living expenses.

The Per Scholas ZPL is managed by Social Finance, a grant recipient of the $100 million Google Career Certificates Fund. The program supported by the Google Career Certificates Fund aims to drive $1 billion in aggregate wage gains for more than 20,000 people while providing wraparound support services such as professional coaching, interview prep, and job placement assistance. With the ZPL, learners receive $3,000 over the course of the three-month long Per Scholas program. The loans are flexible, allowing learners to use them according to their needs for expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, or childcare. Learners only repay the ZPL via no-interest, low monthly payments if they secure jobs making above a minimum salary. Repayments received are reinvested back into the program to allow more learners to benefit.

Per Scholas piloted the loan across 21 IT support cohorts at eight campuses—Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, North Carolina, and Philadelphia—and aims to expand the program with support from additional partners.

“The Zero Percent Loan program is a game-changer in Per Scholas’ mission to drive economic mobility and build a diverse, inclusive tech workforce,” said Plinio Ayala, president and CEO of Per Scholas. “By tackling the often-overlooked challenge of living expenses during training, this initiative reduces financial barriers that have long kept talented individuals from reaching their full potential. With the support of Social Finance, Google.org, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, and the Charles Koch Foundation, we are not just empowering learners to gain critical skills for in-demand careers—we are creating a model for lasting economic equity and reshaping the future of opportunity in the tech industry.”

Early results from the pilot demonstrate the impact of the ZPL, with participants achieving an 83% graduation rate compared to 70% for non-participants, a statistically significant improvement. Detailed in a newly released report by Per Scholas, the pilot ran from June 2023 to March 2024, with nearly 60% of all eligible learners applying for the ZPL.

“We designed this program, made possible through the Google Career Certificates Fund, to support learners as they prepare for jobs that lead to economic mobility. We are encouraged by the early results of the Zero Percent Loan pilot with Per Scholas, which show greater persistence among learners using the loan,” said Jake Edwards, VP of Impact Investments at Social Finance. “We are excited to apply learnings from the partnership, and other training providers supported by the Fund, to build the knowledge base of what works to help more learners upskill at scale.”

The program is already helping learners improve their job prospects and earning potential. Wanting to switch careers, Tori Haynes—who had been working as a security guard and DJ—was encouraged by a Per Scholas alum to consider Per Scholas training to pursue her interest in a career in tech. Tori enrolled in Per Scholas’ IT Support course in Baltimore. The ZPL provided Tori with the financial stability to focus on the program, helping her gain technical and professional skills. Tori now works as an IT Support Specialist at a real estate company and is exploring opportunities in emerging technologies, including AI.

“When I found out I got the loan, it was such a relief—it was one less thing to worry about. It allowed me to concentrate fully on my studies and gave me a cushion so I didn’t have to work constantly to make ends meet,” Tori said. “Some people literally can’t pursue education because they can’t afford it. Doing this program for free and with the extra financial help? That’s a miracle for some people.”

The Google Career Certificates were developed by Google employees to support skilling in high-demand fields within 3-6 months—with no degree or experience required. The Google Career Certificates Fund began supporting learners with training providers including inaugural training providers Merit America and Year Up in 2022. In addition to training and wraparound support, learners are also connected to an employer consortium of over 150 companies that consider Google Career Certificates graduates.

To learn more about Per Scholas’ IT Support training program and how you can enroll, visit perscholas.org.

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About Social Finance

Social Finance (SF Advisors, LLC) is a national nonprofit and registered investment advisor. We work with the public, private, and social sectors to create partnerships and investments that measurably improve lives. Since our founding in 2011, we have mobilized more than $400 million in new investments designed to help people and communities realize improved outcomes in workforce and economic mobility, health, and housing. Learn more at socialfinance.org.

About Per Scholas

For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has been on a mission to drive equity and opportunity in the ever-advancing technology landscape by unlocking the untapped potential of individuals, uplifting communities, and meeting the needs of employers through rigorous tech training. By teaming up with dynamic employer partners, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we’re forging inclusive tech talent pipelines, fulfilling an ever-increasing need for skilled talent. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and counting, Per Scholas offers no-cost training programs in the most sought-after tech skills, spanning Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, 25,000+ individuals have been trained through Per Scholas, propelling their professional trajectories into high-growth tech careers with salaries three times higher than their pre-training earnings. At Per Scholas, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re in our DNA. 85+ percent of our learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.