How to Become an Information Technology Expert
Information technology (IT) is at the core of business in all industries. It drives your daily work. Because of its importance, you should consider pursuing it as a potentially lucrative and stable career path.
According to EDUCASE, the median annual IT spending in education was $10.6 million. The White House budget proposed $75 billion for IT spending. So, it’s the perfect time to position yourself to take advantage of the growth opportunities in this rewarding career.
Beyond the financial benefits and job security, you’ll be at the forefront of technology. IT roles are shaping the future of business. That’s why learning how to become an IT Specialist is beneficial.
What Is an Information Technology Expert? Understanding the Role
Information technology experts work with digital systems across industries. Their work involves technical troubleshooting, support, and security. IT specialists design, develop, and maintain the organization’s technological infrastructure. So, an IT expert ensures that computer systems are secure and up-to-date.
Core Areas of Expertise in IT
IT is a vast field with several key domains and many specialized expertise options. Here’s an overview of the critical areas:
- Systems Administration: This IT field manages and maintains computer systems and servers to ensure peak performance.
- Network Management: This role oversees computer network design, implementation, and maintenance.
- Cybersecurity: These experts protect systems, networks, and programs from cyber attacks.
- Cloud Computing: This specialization manages and leverages cloud-based services and infrastructure.
- Database Management: These experts design, implement, and maintain database systems.
- Software Development: Creating, testing, and maintaining software applications.
How to Become an IT Specialist
Becoming an Information Technology expert involves many steps you’re already familiar with, including pursuing an education and gaining certifications. As you learn more about how to become an Information Technology Specialist, you’ll need to consider the path you’ll follow to get there.
Education – Degrees and Entry-Level Knowledge
Many aspiring IT professionals still find education valuable, so it’s a popular path to take. But what degree do you need to be an IT Specialist? You could pursue degree programs in cybersecurity, project management, analytics, or digital forensics. To get started, these IT courses at Per Scholas are great for a career in IT:
- Information Technology (IT): This degree is about using computers in business. It covers many topics, including network administration, database management, and IT project management.
- Computer Science: This degree takes a more theoretical approach. Students study algorithms, data structures, and software engineering. This path is excellent for those interested in software development or research-oriented roles.
- Information Systems: This degree blends technology with business. It’s ideal if you’re seeking roles that bridge IT and business, like business analysts or IT managers.
- Software Engineering: This degree focuses on developing software. It emphasizes best practices in design, testing, and project management.
So, how do you become an IT professional? The IT field constantly evolves, so a commitment to lifelong learning is essential. The education needed for an Information Technology Specialist may differ from what you’ve imagined. A traditional degree, a boot camp, or self-teaching can work. Consider IT certification vs degree as you pursue your career goals. There’s more than one way to earn the qualifications needed to become an IT specialist.
Certifications that Boost Your IT Career
Certifications are vital in proving your skills. They make you more appealing to IT employers. They demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional growth. Here’s a list of key certifications, their importance, and career impact:
- CompTIA A+: This cert covers basic IT skills, including hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. It is ideal for entry-level IT positions like help desk technicians, or IT support specialists.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This cert tests your networking skills. It proves you can install, configure, and manage medium-size routed and switched networks. You can also troubleshoot them. It opens doors to roles like network administrator or systems engineer.
- Microsoft Certified: This certifies a basic knowledge of Microsoft Azure. It covers Azure services, cloud concepts, and Azure pricing and support. It is beneficial for IT professionals looking to transition into cloud-based roles.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect—Associate: This certification tests Cloud architecture skills and validates expertise in designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS. It is essential for cloud architect and DevOps engineer positions.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This certification focuses on advanced security expertise and is needed for senior cybersecurity roles.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): This certification covers project management methods and best practices. You show expertise in leading and directing projects and teams. It is essential for IT project managers and team leads.
- ITIL Foundation: This certification focuses on IT service management and covers the basics of the ITIL framework. It is valuable for IT managers and those involved in service delivery and support.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification focuses on ethical hacking and cybersecurity. It teaches how to find weaknesses in target systems using the same knowledge and tools as malicious hackers. This certification is ideal for penetration testers and security analysts.
Proper certifications can accelerate your IT career and open new doors. They require time and resources to attain, but these certifications are valuable. Dig into your IT certification roadmap to validate your skills and attract employers as you learn how to become an IT Specialist.
Build Hands-On Experience
Practical experience is the cornerstone of a successful IT career. It enhances your skills and makes you more attractive to potential employers. If you’re still wondering how to start your IT career, here are several ways to gain valuable hands-on experience:
- Internships: These jobs let you work on real projects, learn corporate IT, and get a full-time job. Find internships in software development, network admin, or cybersecurity. They should match your interests.
- Apprenticeships: Apprenticeship programs provide a unique blend of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. These structured learning experiences are gaining popularity in IT because they offer a deeper understanding of IT roles and responsibilities.
- Entry-Level Positions: Help desk or junior IT roles can provide invaluable experience. You’ll experience IT issues and technologies while developing crucial soft skills: communication, problem-solving, and customer service.
- Contributing to Open-Source Projects: You can gain coding experience and network with professionals. Platforms like GitHub host many open-source projects across various technologies. You can boost your coding skills and learn best practices in software development. It also helps you find job opportunities.
Continuous Learning
The IT field is in a state of flux and growth, characterized by rapid evolution and constant innovation. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial for long-term success. Here are effective strategies for continuous learning:
- Tech News: Reputable tech sites update you on trends, new tech, and significant events. Publications like TechCrunch, Wired, and Ars Technica offer in-depth coverage of the tech world. Consider setting up news alerts or subscribing to the newsletters so you won’t miss important updates in your areas of interest.
- Attending Conferences: Tech conferences are the best option for learning, networking, and seeing new tech. Consider events like DEFCON for cybersecurity, Black Hat for info security, and AWS re:Invent for cloud computing. These conferences offer workshops, talks, and labs. They will increase your knowledge and allow you to connect with industry leaders and potential employers.
- Joining Professional Organizations: Membership in IT organizations can boost your career. Organizations like ACM, IEEE Computer Society, and ISACA offer resources, including journals, webinars, and networking events. These memberships can also access exclusive job boards, mentorships, and recognition.
You can build a strong foundation for a successful IT career with upskilling and reskilling. Continuous learning is also a great way to pursue your passions and interests in the technical areas you most enjoy while networking.
Top Skills Needed to Excel as an IT Expert
Essential skills fall into two categories: technical and soft skills. Both are equally important in today’s IT world. So, what are the IT Specialist job requirements?
Technical Skills
Technical skills form the backbone of an IT professional’s expertise. Networking proficiency is critical. It includes knowing TCP/IP, UDP, and HTTP/HTTPS. It also requires an understanding of LAN, WAN, and VLAN network architectures. You should be well-versed in network security concepts and troubleshooting tools. A deep understanding of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, is essential.
- Cloud Computing: As an IT professional, you should know AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. You must understand cloud architecture and deployment models and know cloud security best practices. Experience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools, like Terraform or CloudFormation, is valuable.
- Programming and Scripting: Skills in a high-level language, like Python or Java, are helpful. Scripting in PowerShell, Bash, or Python for automation is also helpful. A good grasp of Git and essential web tech (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) rounds out this skill set.
- Cybersecurity: Be aware of common security threats and weaknesses. Understanding encryption methods and protocols is essential. Many IT roles require awareness of compliance standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS.
- Database Management: This includes SQL, database design, and experience with relational and NoSQL databases. It also provides knowledge of database tuning and optimization. Knowledge of virtualization, containerization, and microservices is vital in modern IT.
Soft Skills
While technical skills are crucial, soft skills are also necessary for success in IT.
- Adaptability: You must learn new systems, software, or hardware. You must be flexible in changing environments. You must be open to feedback and improvement. These traits are essential.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: It’s essential to demonstrate that you can work well in cross-functional teams, share knowledge, mentor colleagues, and use collaboration tools.
- Time Management and Organization: Many IT roles require a strong customer service focus. It also requires managing expectations and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated on the latest IT trends and technologies and be motivated to acquire new skills and certifications. You must have a curiosity and passion for technology.
IT professionals succeed by developing these technical and soft skills. The importance of specific skills may vary by IT specialization, but you’ll also see a lot of overlap. A strong foundation in these areas will benefit you throughout your career.
IT Career Paths – Exploring Specializations
The field of Information Technology offers many career paths. Each specialization has its challenges and opportunities. This guide will help you find IT fields that match your skills and interests.
System Administrators
Systems Administrators play a crucial role in maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure. Their critical tasks are to manage server workstations and ensure optimal performance. This role monitors system performance, troubleshoots issues, and provides data backup and recovery. You should be prepared to implement security measures to guard against threats. You must know Windows Server, Linux, virtualization, networking, and scripting to excel in this role.
Network Administrators
Network Administrators handle the smooth operation of an organization’s computer networks. This role requires that you design, implement, and maintain enterprise networks. Network Administrators troubleshoot network issues and manage hardware (routers, switches, firewalls). This role requires skills in networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP), network security, and network hardware and software. As you pursue this career path, you need certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+.
IT Support Specialists
IT Support Specialists are an organization’s first defense against technical issues. In this role, you must provide technical support to end users. Also, you’ll need to troubleshoot hardware and software, manage help desk tickets, and prioritize issues. It also requires a broad knowledge of computer systems and software. A patient, customer service-oriented approach is essential.
Cloud Engineers
Cloud Engineers design, implement, and manage cloud-based systems and infrastructure. This role must design and implement cloud infrastructure. Also, they must manage virtual systems and services. Cloud engineers ensure cloud security and compliance while optimizing cloud performance and costs. You’ll also be required to know cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) to succeed in this role. You should understand DevOps principles and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
Cybersecurity Specialists
Cybersecurity Specialists protect organizations from digital threats and ensure data integrity. In this role, you would be the backbone of an organization’s digital defense. One of the primary duties is to implement and maintain robust security measures. It involves setting up and configuring security tools. These include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption protocols. In this role, you must update and patch these systems to guard against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
Data Scientists
Data Scientists analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make informed decisions. In this role, you would collect and analyze large datasets. The role involves developing predictive models and machine learning algorithms. Data scientists visualize data and create reports while collaborating with teams to implement data-driven solutions. As you pursue this role, you must stay updated on the latest data science techniques and technology, including Matplotlib, Seaborn, or Tableau.
Salary and Job Market Insights for IT Experts
How much does information technology make? Here are salary expectations and insights into job demand for IT professionals.
- An IT Specialist in the U.S. earns an average salaryof approximately $84,404 per year, with a typical range of between $77,084 and $94,312.
- The BLS projects a 31% increase in IT employmentby 2026, with about 255,400 new IT jobs.
How to Stand Out in the IT Job Market
Stand out from the crowd for career success. Here are strategies to make yourself attractive to potential employers as you advance your IT career:
Networking and Building Connections
- Join Professional Organizations: You can become a member of ACM, IEEE, or local IT associations.
- Attend Industry Conferences and Meetups: Participate in events like DEFCON, Black Hat, or local tech meetups.
- Engage in Online Communities: Join IT-focused forums, Slack channels, or Discord servers.
- Volunteer for Tech-Related Causes: Offer your IT skills to non-profits or community organizations.
Preparing for IT Interviews
As competition in the IT sector intensifies, you must hone your interview skills to present yourself as the ideal candidate. Here are some resume and interview tips to help you navigate the process with confidence and finesse.
- Craft an Impactful Resume: Your resume serves as the gateway, capturing your potential employer’s attention. So, treat your resume as a living document. You should tailor it to the IT role, emphasizing your experience, skills, and other relevant background.
- Prepare for the Interview: Technical knowledge is essential, but you must demonstrate your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and learning ability. As you prepare and practice common interview questions, show that you’ve researched the company and that your online presence aligns with the company’s values and mission.
- Post-Interview Follow-Up: The interview process does not end when you leave the building. You can make a positive impression by sending a thank you note and continuing the conversation. You should also reflect on the interview, including what and how you said it. It’s a great opportunity to improve your interview style and presentation.
With these resume and interview tips, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the IT job interview process. As the potential employer assesses your qualifications and experience, you can determine if this company aligns with your core values and career goals.
Remember, it’s an ongoing process and conversation. The employer might remember you for the next IT role even if you aren’t hired for the job you initially interviewed for. You must make a good impression with your knowledge, skills, and personal rapport to be considered for future openings.
Take the First Step to Become an IT Expert With Per Scholas
As IT spending continues to grow, it’s time to learn more about how you can become an IT expert with Per Scholas. Gain the skills, experience, and background you need to start your IT career. As you review these tips and recommendations, follow the roadmap to achieve your successful career in IT. Sign up today to learn more.
Per Scholas Director of Veteran Recruitment and Partnerships, George Darby III, Speaks at Military Influencers Conference
On October 2, Per Scholas Director of Veteran Recruitment and Partnerships, George Darby III, delivered an impactful session – “Building a Military Ready Culture vs. Military Friendly Culture” at the Military Influencers Conference. His session highlighted the critical difference between simply being Military Friendly and becoming truly Military Ready, urging organizations to go beyond initial outreach to create environments where veterans and their families can thrive long-term.
Darby emphasized that while being Military Friendly is a great first step—helping veterans and military spouses get a foot in the door—it is not enough to retain them. He called for a paradigm shift in organizational culture, advocating for employers to adopt Military Ready practices that take into account the unique challenges veterans and their families face during the transition to civilian life. He shared key strategies such as implementing veteran-specific onboarding programs, providing mental health support, and offering flexible employment options for military spouses.
Darby also spoke about the crucial role that organizations can play in building sustainable career pathways for military spouses, who often struggle with frequent relocations and gaps in employment. He shared how organizations can make a difference by offering remote work opportunities, flexible schedules, and professional development to ensure their success.
The session was a powerful call to action, urging companies to adopt a Military Ready mindset and truly commit to engaging the military community at all levels.
Ken Walker Recognized by City & State New York as a New York Trailblazer in Building and Real Estate!
Per Scholas’ Executive Vice President of DEIB&C and special advisor to the CEO, Ken Walker, has been featured once again in City & State New York! This time, Ken has been named a New York Trailblazer in Building and Real Estate. This honor celebrates leaders in the movement to reshape New York City’s landscape, improving space and affordability within the city.
Ken was recognized for his important work in helping to guide the growth of Per Scholas’s campus real estate portfolio in New York and in dozens of locations across the country. Ken also helped launch Per Scholas’s Diverse by Design initiative to help organizations build diverse and inclusive tech workspaces, open doors of opportunity to diverse tech talent, and drive diversity in the tech industry. Congratulations, Ken!
The Future of Hispanic Heritage in Tech: Breaking Barriers and Building an Inclusive Future
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, recognizes and celebrates the many contributions of Hispanic and Latinx people. From celebrating traditional foods and vibrant art to recognizing influential figures, this month highlights the rich culture and significance of Hispanic communities.
As the Hispanic and Latinx populations continue to grow in the United States, their influence in the tech industry is essential for driving diversity and creating inclusive environments. However, they face significant challenges as minorities remain underrepresented in the tech field. It’s fitting that this year’s theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is Pioneers of Change. Pioneers of Change celebrates those breaking barriers today and paving the way for future generations to create greater inclusion and representation in the tech field.
At Per Scholas, our mission is to provide accessible tech education that empowers Hispanic and Latinx communities to overcome underrepresentation. We ensure learners gain the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers and thrive in the industry.
Looking Forward: The Future of Hispanic Heritage in Tech
Currently, the majority of Latinx K-12 learners are in states with the highest demand for technology jobs. At Per Scholas, there are opportunities for further education designed to prepare students for success in the tech industry after high school graduation, allowing them to thrive in the growing field around them. The increasing influence of Hispanics in tech will continue to increase diversity and drive innovation.
Diversity, particularly in tech leadership roles, is vital because it can improve innovation and creativity, leading to increased revenue. By uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds, ideas, and experiences, we can foster creativity and promote a richer diversity in the tech industry. Diversity enhances the success of Latinx learners and empowers the tech industry to adapt and excel in a competitive field
Hispanic culture contributes to this diversity. It is deeply rooted in community and family, fostering future Latinx tech employees with strong teamwork skills and a foundational work ethic. These values can have a positive influence on the tech industry by providing the collaborative work environment necessary to drive creativity and innovation.
Hispanic professionals have already made significant contributions in tech. They’re becoming more prominent in large corporations such as Google and Microsoft and are a driving force behind many small businesses and tech startups.
Per Scholas is leading the way in supporting Hispanic learners. We’re on the cutting edge of supporting and amplifying Hispanic voices by providing exceptional training opportunities. We’ve also formed strong relationships with various partners and supporters. Per Scholas will continue supporting Hispanic learners through expanded programs, partnerships, and outreach into the community.
Breaking Barriers: How Per Scholas Supports Hispanic Students in Tech
Hispanic and Latinx learners face many challenges entering and thriving in the tech industry, including limited access to tech-focused education in many communities. Financial barriers can also hinder an individual’s ability to further education. A current lack of representation in the tech field means fewer role models and mentors for Hispanics seeking careers in tech.
Per Scholas is helping Hispanic learners overcome these barriers by providing the following:
- Exceptional Training
- Professional Development
- Connections to 850+ Employee Partners
- Community Support
Building a supportive community is particularly important in helping Hispanic learners succeed in tech. Mentorship helps learners develop core technology skills and enables them to build confidence and a deeper understanding of the technology industry.
There are already many incredible success stories about our alumni, including Hispanics in tech:
- Catherine Acevedo: Born in the Dominican Republic, Catherine Acevedo came to New Jersey as a young girl, eventually settling in New York. She worked in the restaurant industry and took courses in business and accounting. While doing computer work, she took an interest in cybersecurity. At the urging of her manager, Catherine enrolled in Per Scholas’s cybersecurity course and landed a great job as an Associate Engineer at Nagarro within two weeks of graduating.
- Angel Juarez: While restocking products at a retail store, Angel Juarez decided to apply for a Software Engineering Course at Per Scholas. He’s now a full-stack engineer with American Express and dreams of continuing his education by studying robotics.
The Role of Hispanic Tech Professionals in Building a More Inclusive Future
Greater inclusion in tech brings diverse experiences and perspectives to the table. This can lead to more equitable technology solutions, such as improved customer outcomes and increased access to technology for everyone.
Hispanic professionals are already making great strides in the technology sector. A few include Paula Bellizia, who has held prominent positions at Google and Microsoft, and Victor Delgado, who heads Samsung’s Strategic Alliances in South Korea.
Hispanics in tech can inspire the next generation by volunteering at local schools and sharing their tech skills and knowledge. They can also engage in mentorship programs in the workplace, which help promote tech diversity.
Why Representation Matters: Encouraging the Next Generation of Hispanic Tech Talent
The Hispanic population in the United States has recently passed 65 million, accounting for almost 71% of all population growth between 2022 and 2023. This means representation in tech is crucial for understanding the needs of the Hispanic community and inspiring future generations of Hispanic learners.
Watching successful role models in action through mentorship programs or other community involvement can inspire learners and professionals to choose technology as a future career.
There are several ways Per Scholas is reaching out to empower the next generation. The Centralized Internal Foundation was created to enable learners and diversify the tech industry. We also promote collaborative consulting and develop a customized pipeline of diverse candidates with skills to meet various business needs.
Support for Hispanic learners and diversity in tech can be increased in many ways. Schools can start by training teachers to better understand and support cultural differences. Families can help learners develop better language skills and increase their involvement in school activities. Communities can support local Hispanic organizations and provide learners with the necessary resources to succeed.
The Hispanic Community is increasingly driving the technology boom, but much work still needs to be done. Everyone must do their part to continue making progress. Whether through mentoring, advocating for diversity in tech, or supporting Per Scholas, we can each contribute toward breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future.
If you’re interested in helping us reboot the economy more inclusively, please donate to Per Scholas today.
Celebrating August Technologists in New York and Kansas City
Per Scholas New York recently celebrated a momentous graduation ceremony at Barclays, one of our valued Founder’s Circle supporters. The event recognized the hard work and dedication of 91 technologists, each of whom successfully completed intensive training in highly sought-after fields including Cybersecurity and IT support. These graduates represented various cohorts, including Cybersecurity at Brooklyn/Stanley Issacs satellite, Bronx IT Support, IT Support at Brooklyn/CommonPoint Queens satellite, and IT Support from Brooklyn/JCC Staten Island satellite. The graduation not only celebrated the individual achievements of these technologists but also underscored Per Scholas’ ongoing commitment to creating pathways for diverse talent to enter and thrive in their technological careers.
During the ceremony, Debbie Roman, Managing Director of Per Scholas New York, delivered a wholehearted speech encouraging alumni to view this milestone as the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and growth. In addition to Roman’s inspiring remarking, industry leaders such as Craig Robertson, CEO of the Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) at Barclays and Wale Akinwande, Per Scholas National Board and Senior VP and Chief Auditor at S&P Global, emphasized the importance of persistence and innovation as these new technologists enter into an ever-evolving field.
Meanwhile, Per Scholas Kansas City marked a historic moment with its inaugural graduation on Friday, August 30, 2024, celebrating 16 graduates from its IT support cohort. Per Scholas President and CEO Plinio Ayala attended and addressed the Kansas City technologists, acknowledging their achievement and the bright futures ahead of them in an industry ready for skilled professionals. Ayala’s remarks captured the transformative impact of Per Scholas’ programs, as these graduates prepare to apply their new skills and continue to drive change in their communities.
These ceremonies serve as reminders of the ongoing commitment Per Scholas holds to empowering individuals from underrepresented backgrounds with meaningful careers in technology. As we continue to expand across the country, the success of these alumni reinforces our mission to build a more inclusive tech workforce and demonstrates the power of opportunity and education to change lives. We are excited to witness the future contributions of these technologists and remain committed to supporting their journeys ahead.
Per Scholas Mentioned in The Washington Post: The Life-Changing Training Programs Too Few People Know About
The life-changing training programs too few people know about (9/6/24)
The Washington Post recently posted an op-ed discussing the importance of apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional college education. Many contributors share their personal experiences with apprenticeships, highlighting the benefits such as hands-on learning, well-paying careers, and opportunities for advancement. Good jobs exist and people can gain greater access to them through training and apprenticeship programs. The only issue? Many people are unaware of apprenticeship opportunities.
Read the article here and see how Per Scholas is helping.
Per Scholas Receives Funding from Texas Talent Connection Grant Program
Per Scholas is grateful to be a recipient of the Texas Talent Connection Grant program, from the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The $350,000 investment will support our campuses in Houston and Dallas in scaling no-cost technical skills training, professional development and job placement services to Texas learners, serving Collin, Dallas, Denton, Fort Bend, Harris, Houston, and Tarrant counties. The funds will create new pathways to job opportunities such as help desk analysts, desktop support technicians, and associate network engineers in the information technology industry.
Administered through the Texas Workforce Investment Council, over $6.3 million in grants were awarded this month to organizations leading innovative education and workforce skills training programs that ensure Texas’ growing workforce and businesses are prepared to successfully operate in an ever-changing 21st century economy.
“Our cities are seeing growth in tech roles across industries, especially in education and technology,” said Per Scholas Houston Managing Director Tondalayo Hall. “To meet the demand and ensure that more Texans have access to the economic mobility that the innovation sector offers, organizations like Per Scholas are critical in building on-ramps for those new to the field.”
To learn more about this grant, read the full press release.
Per Scholas National Capital Region’s Senior Managing Director, Jessica Diaz Council, and Site Director, Monique Singleton, Discuss Per Scholas’s Origins and Growth with Black Enterprise
Per Scholas National Capital Region’s Senior Managing Director, Jessica Diaz Council, and Site Director, Monique Singleton, spoke with Black Enterprise and shared insights into Per Scholas’s impact and growth.
Per Scholas, a leading nonprofit organization, is making significant strides in bridging the gap between underserved communities and high-paying tech careers through its no-cost professional tech training programs. With operations in nearly two dozen cities, including recent expansions to Buffalo, New York, and Kansas City, Missouri, Per Scholas is at the forefront of efforts to diversify the tech workforce.
Founded in the Bronx, New York, Per Scholas began as a tech recycling initiative and has since grown into a nationwide organization committed to providing access to quality education. TPer Scholas’s programs are designed not only to equip learners with essential technical skills but also to offer comprehensive support, including mental health services and financial coaching, ensuring their holistic success.
One of the latest initiatives from Per Scholas is a cybersecurity apprenticeship program, licensed by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, which addresses the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals. This program is a part of Per Scholas’s ongoing efforts to align its training with industry needs, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
“Our mission is to provide tuition-free, relevant, and high-quality tech training that truly prepares our learners for success,” said Jessica Diaz Council, Senior Managing Director of Per Scholas National Capital Region. “Through close collaboration with employer partners and a strong support system, we are changing lives and making a lasting impact on the tech industry.”
Per Scholas continues to offer rolling admissions and is actively engaged in fundraising efforts to sustain its tuition-free model, allowing the organization to expand its reach and continue democratizing access to education across the country.
Per Scholas Expands No-Cost Tech Training to Buffalo, Empowering Underrepresented Communities
Per Scholas, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic equity through tech training, is expanding its reach to Buffalo, New York. The organization, which operates in nearly two dozen locations across the U.S., offers free, rigorous training programs aimed at equipping underrepresented individuals with the skills needed to secure high-paying tech jobs.
Per Scholas Buffalo will welcome its first cohort of 20 learners on October 15, 2024, in its newly renovated campus at the Larkin at Exchange building. The 13-week program is designed for individuals 18 and older, with a high school diploma or equivalent, who are ready to work in the U.S. immediately.
“Buffalo’s growing tech sector presents an ideal environment for our expansion,” said Jeremy Besch, Managing Director of Per Scholas Buffalo. “We are committed to ensuring that our learners, many of whom may initially find this new environment intimidating, feel welcomed and prepared to thrive in their future careers.”
The organization plans to train 60 more learners in Buffalo throughout 2025, with potential expansion to additional satellite locations in Western New York. Per Scholas has a proven track record, with an 85% graduation rate and 80% of graduates securing full-time employment within a year.
Per Scholas Buffalo is supported by funding from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, Empire State Development, Amazon, and the NFL, among others. Applications are open until September 30, 2024.
Per Scholas Strengthens Commitment to Military Families at ESGR Signing Ceremony in the Bronx
