Per Scholas Expands Tech Training to Buffalo

 The launch of the new Buffalo campus represents a pivotal moment in the efforts to bridge the digital skills gap and foster economic growth in the community; Per Scholas Buffalo is Now Accepting Applications for IT Support course

BUFFALO, NY (August 27, 2024) – Per Scholas, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic mobility through rigorous and no-cost technology training, is thrilled to announce the launch of its new campus in Buffalo, New York. This expansion aims to provide residents with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the rapidly growing IT sector. Per Scholas will equip individuals with the expertise required to secure high-paying, sustainable careers in the rapidly growing technology industry in Buffalo. Per Scholas Buffalo will serve as a hub for innovative learning and career advancement from its newest campus located in historic Larkinville.  Per Scholas’s tuition-free tech training is now available to local residents thanks to support from Empire State Development via a $1 million New York State Office of Strategic Workforce Pay for Performance (P4P) operating grant, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Amazon, the NFL Foundation, and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Applications are now open for Buffalo residents looking to access technology careers and potentially triple their salaries through Per Scholas’s proven model. The inaugural 13-week, full-time IT Support course cohort, which will begin mid-October, combines technical skills and business professional development, leading to industry-recognized credentials like CompTIA A+ and Google IT Support certifications.

Providing pathways for alumni with diverse backgrounds for successful careers in tech, this rigorous IT Support course program equips aspiring technologists with the knowledge and skills for a wide range of entry-level tech careers across Per Scholas’ network of employer partners ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups. As the third Per Scholas campus to open in New York, the proven model continues to unlock potential for individuals, communities, and companies throughout the state. In fact, every dollar invested in Per Scholas has resulted in an $8 net economic return. 

“Per Scholas is thrilled to expand into Buffalo, a community full of promise and untapped potential,” said Per Scholas President & CEO Plinio Ayala. “We’re honored to have received such a warm welcome and a rallying of support from tremendous organizations, and humbled by the collaboration with local experts to serve both businesses and neighborhoods seeking opportunities for professional growth. Our goal is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of future technologists and the community at large.”

“New York State is committed to advancing the Buffalo communities that have faced historical economic disinvestment, and Per Scholas’ training programs provide one way to do so,” said Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight. “Made possible in part through a grant from the New York State Office of Strategic Workforce Development, Per Scholas Buffalo’s landmark campus is the first campus in New York State outside the New York City metropolitan area. It provides immediate opportunities for access to thriving tech careers, strengthening the community in a tangible way, and will create a brighter future for all.”

“For Buffalo to continue its path toward becoming a leader in tech, it needs to invest in developing the workforce of tomorrow,” Congressmember Tim Kennedy said. “Efforts like that of Per Scholas are providing the resources, training, and network necessary to expand our tech workforce in the Western New York region. With an emphasis on equity, Per Scholas programming will allow more people to find rewarding work in innovative new fields right here in Buffalo.”

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “The launch of Per Scholas’ new Buffalo campus represents a pivotal milestone for Buffalo’s growing tech sector and a boon to our region’s economy. Coupled with the research and innovation soon to be produced by Governor Hochul’s Empire AI initiative, the new Per Scholas campus in Buffalo’s Larkin district will equip local workers with the experience they need in cybersecurity and software engineering to secure great technology careers in Buffalo. We are currently seeing a rapid growth in AI-technology and related fields; we need to ensure that no part of the labor force is left behind. By championing future-proof skills and talent, we can equip our workforce with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy.”

“Per Scholas has developed an exceptionally successful model for career development that we are excited to support. The program is opening up new opportunities for people who are passionate about entering the burgeoning tech field across Western New York,” said Amber Slichta, Vice President of Programs and Learning at the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. “The skills gained through Per Scholas have the potential to fuel a lifetime career of good-paying jobs. By matching newly skilled individuals with employer needs, we’re making a difference in the region.”

“Upskilling and workforce development is a priority throughout the nation, and even more so recently here in the Buffalo community,” said Carley Graham Garcia, Head of Community Affairs for Amazon in New York. “Amazon is proud to partner with Per Scholas, who is empowering individuals eager to launch a thriving career. By expanding skills training opportunities in Buffalo, this initiative will help more of our community tap into steady careers attached to life-changing compensation. At the same time, we’ll build and upskill a talent pipeline that brings even greater economic investment to Western New York.”

“The NFL’s Inspire Change social justice initiative is proud to support the launch of Per Scholas’ Buffalo campus as they continue to break barriers and create positive change, especially for people of color in Buffalo,” said NFL Vice President, Social Responsibility Clare Graff. “With Per Scholas, these individuals are empowered to enter the tech industry and launch thriving careers, aligning with our mission of advancing economic opportunities for underserved populations.”

“Per Scholas’s expansion into the Buffalo community is exciting and transformative,” noted Howard Zemsky of Larkin Development. “The work that Per Scholas will do in the Larkin District will transform the lives of the Buffalo community and local companies, and I look forward to the economic growth their alumni will bring to this community.”

“Workforce development is a key strategy to build the regional economy by connecting people and jobs, and fulfilling the needs of employers seeking talent. Per Scholas’s new Buffalo Campus will be a critical partner in growing Western New York’s tech training opportunities, strengthening our region’s workforce to meet the needs of job seekers and creating a reliable talent pipeline for industry.” said Laura Quebral, CEO, Center for Regional Strategies, an intermediary partner with the Western New York Manufacturing and Tech Coalition.

“I am thrilled to welcome Per Scholas to Buffalo. Their proven track record in training and developing a diverse tech workforce will benefit our community, where there is a strong demand for skilled tech professionals,” said Stephen Tucker, Executive Director of the Western New York Manufacturing & Tech Workforce Coalition. “Per Scholas is well-equipped to meet this demand by providing high-quality training and job attainment support that will drive economic growth and innovation in our region.”

“A healthy community thrives on a strong and diverse workforce landscape and Per Scholars is playing a vital role in building that foundation,” said Michael Ball, vice president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “By equipping individuals with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in high-demand tech fields, Per Scholars is not only empowering individuals but also strengthening our local economy. As a community-based health plan, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is proud to support their mission, as we share a commitment to improving the health and well-being of our communities.”

To learn more about Per Scholas Buffalo, follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook, or visit their page.

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, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

About Empire State Development

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency. The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing the Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of “I LOVE NY,” the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit regionalcouncils.ny.gov and esd.ny.gov.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

About The NFL Foundation

Inspire Change is a year-round initiative that highlights the impactful social justice work done by NFL players, clubs, the league office, and grant partners to break down barriers to opportunity and end systemic racism. Since 2017, the NFL Family has provided $300 million to more than 40 national grant partners and more than 600 grassroots organizations to advance social justice causes in the areas of education, economic advancement, police-community relations, and criminal justice reform. To date, the NFL Foundation has provided more than 1,800 Inspire Change matching grants to current NFL players and Legends for nonprofits of their choice to help reduce barriers to opportunity. To learn more about the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative and to view the 2023 Social Justice Impact Report, visit www.nfl.com/inspirechange. Follow @InspireChange on Twitter and Instagram. On Facebook, follow www.facebook.com/inspirechange.

About Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is a trade name of Highmark Western and Northeastern New York Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Since 1936, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has helped millions of people lead healthier lives. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield offers a full range of insured, self-insured, and government programs and services covering businesses, families, and individuals, as well as dental and vision plans and stop-loss coverage. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield employs more than 1,400 people and serves as a key economic driver in the region. As a community-based, not-for-profit health plan, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield contributes significantly to organizations that strengthen and enrich the health of the community, including investments of more than $8 million in 2023.

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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.

Read more here!

The traditional work structure is a thing of the past. In a post-COVID world, more and more workplaces adapt to the employees’ needs. Companies are giving their employees the chance to cultivate new skills and gain new certifications and credentials. By investing in their talent and giving employees more agency, employers are empowering their workforce to be more driven and dedicated.

Read how Per Scholas and employer partner Barclays have embraced this change here!

Per Scholas partner, MDRC, is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, and to celebrate, they featured some of their partners to show the impact of their work. Per Scholas is thrilled to partner with MDRC as part of their sector programs.

“With the MDRC Work Advance study, we were 1 of 4 organizations that participated, and the intent was to apply different aspects of the Work Advance model to Per Scholas,” reflected Per Scholas Chief of Staff Tamara Johnson. “Through those random control trials, we have proven that we can return up to 8x the investment in our training program.”

Learn more about MDRC’s sectoral training programs and success stories in this video.

Comcast has announced a $35 million investment to support workforce development as part of Project UP — Comcast’s comprehensive commitment, aimed at creating economic opportunities and addressing the digital skills gap. As part of this initiative, Per Scholas will receive funding to expand its technology training programs for diverse communities.

Comcast’s investment will help Per Scholas increase the capacity of its training programs, update its curriculum to meet industry standards and strengthen job placement services. By partnering with organizations like Per Scholas, Comcast aims to foster a more diverse and skilled workforce, empowering individuals and supporting economic mobility.

Read the full press release on this investment here.

The Allstate Foundation, a Founder’s Circle partner of Per Scholas, has provided generous funding for our no-cost tech training programs since 2021. The Foundation proudly supports Per Scholas’ mission to provide rigorous IT job training employment opportunities for diverse adult learners from low-to-moderate income households across our growing 20+ training campuses.

With a renewed $1 million in support from The Allstate Foundation, Per Scholas will scale our rigorous, no-cost IT job training, opening doors to high-quality tech careers for at least 4,250 diverse learners across 20+ campuses in 2024. This support will also enable us to coach learners on business professional skill development, including communication, collaboration, presentation, and problem-solving skills; provide holistic support services to all learners to identify and mitigate barriers that might impact learner success in training and employment, including financial capabilities and navigator/support services; and upon graduation, connect learners to leading employers for career opportunities and job attainment.

The Allstate Foundation’s support has helped promote economic progress for thousands of diverse technologists and is narrowing the opportunity gap by helping historically underrepresented communities secure thriving careers in partnership with Per Scholas. We are proud to partner with an organization whose support aligns with our mission to unlock potential for our learners and alumni as we change the face of tech.

On June 18th, Per Scholas Chief Revenue Officer Caitlyn Brazill participated in a panel discussion at Capgemini’s Business to Planet New York Sustainability Connect event. During the panel discussion: Green Economy and Job Creation, panelists discussed ways to foster positive change towards a greener and more inclusive economy. They explored public education, training for green jobs and the landscape for green business development, as well as the importance of a skilled workforce equipped to drive innovation and sustainability across various sectors.

Caitlyn discussed the renewable industry’s increasing need for skilled tech talent, and Per Scholas’ commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive tech workforce. “Equity is imperative – we have a tremendous opportunity to reshape our economy in the coming years, and shift investment into the kind of jobs and companies that will foster a greener planet,” Caitlyn said. “But if we don’t develop the talent pipeline in an equitable manner and create real pathways into those roles, we will continue to replicate the kinds of inequality and lack of representation we see in the tech workforce today.

“Nearly 9 in 10 Per Scholas learners are people of color, more than 40% identify as women and the majority come from communities and families who have been overlooked as a source of technical talent. Green companies can think differently about talent pipelines, partnering with effective workforce development organizations such as Per Scholas to create opportunities for diverse talent, and to design customized training programs that meet their company’s evolving needs.”

Congress Urges Summer Action on WIOA, Skills Development 

June was a busy month for workforce advocates around the country, as we watched leaders in the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) take up the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a cornerstone legislation that since 2014, has funded the nation’s workforce development system. This comes months after the House passed A Stronger Workforce for America Act (ASWAA), which amends and reauthorizes WIOA with much-needed provisions that modernize the workforce system. Per Scholas saw several changes in the bill reflecting our tireless advocacy over the last few years. 

We look to Congress to take the next critical steps in authorizing a full WIOA legislation, one that after 10 years of powering America’s workforce system, can adequately resource the most underfunded services for workers and their families, and prioritize workforce programs that general long-term economic improvements for the people that need it most. 

WIOA Turns 10. Here’s What We’ve Learned:

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 marked a turning point for U.S. workforce, when Congress came together to establish the nation’s most comprehensive reform to federal workforce development programs. At an appropriation of nearly $5 billion every year, WIOA authorizes funding for states to implement workforce training programs and services. The law is designed to better help workers access opportunities for employment, education and training, and support services, and funds the nation’s web of 2,300 American Job Centers. 

Recent trends and data help us understand just how important it is to make not only urgent, but also effective, investments into the bill and modernize WIOA to serve U.S. workers, employers and training and education providers. The U.S. invests less than any other industrialized country (just 0.1% of GDP) on workforce development, and spends an estimated 30% less on workforce development today than it did in 2001, nearly a $2.5 billion reduction in the past 20 years. 

Even less of this funding goes towards job training (provided to workers through vouchers called Individual Training Accounts). Despite the millions of Americans served by the nation’s premier workforce development program, about 200,000 workers per year receive training using $0.5B in funds, and typically these vouchers have a maximum cap between $1,000-$8,000 per participant, creating issues around consumer choice and access to quality training. Overall, WIOA eligible training programs prepare participants for jobs that pay below the US median income and also below median income for individuals without college degrees. Workers and training providers already face a number of barriers when navigating such programs, made available on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) that too often fails to adequately measure the quality of its education and training programs—including long-term earnings and other outcomes data. 

In contrast, sectoral employment programs with strong evaluations are proven to create quality career pathways alongside the onramps created by WIOA, yet currently the law dedicates no federal funding for sector partnerships; it’s a responsibility left at states’ discretion. By pulling together employers, workers, workforce boards, labor organizations and training programs that lead to in-demand industry credentials, like the Per Scholas model, the system can better address worker and labor needs.

Per Scholas provides no-cost, full-time training that opens a door for Americans who are committed to launching a career in technology to gain the skills and networks they need to succeed. For 28 years, Per Scholas has consistently helped adults increase their incomes 3x, and returns $8 in economic benefits for every $1 spent on training. With our proven model, Per Scholas has been able to increase our scale of 2000 adult learners per year in 2020 by 150%—that means in 2024 we’ll reach more than 5,000 immersive learners plus 2,000 alumni committing to upskilling. We’ve partnered with WIOA agencies in just under half of our 23+ campuses, to deliver high-quality training programs to communities historically left out of high-growth industries like technology.

Spurring the growth, scale and impact of our training relies on a federal government that can use this opportunity to be strategic with investments in the workforce system. Per Scholas applauds the House and Senate for its bipartisanship to drive WIOA forward with clear priorities, which will reduce barriers in advancing demand-driven training models like ours. 

House and Senate WIOA Priorities Take Shape:

In December 2023 the House Education & Workforce Committee passed ASWAA, with many of our key priorities included in the bill text. The Senate takes a different approach in many areas, and while still in it’s draft stages, Per Scholas highlights a few elements from the framework that offer a positive outlook:

• • Prioritizes evidence-based programming. For 2x evaluated models like Per Scholas, we’re excited to see WIOA provide a clear definition for “evidence-based” and encourage states to build emphasis around evidence-based activities in their State Plans. This creates better opportunities to promote and share information on high-impact programs to the public. 
  • Increases funding for skills development for adult workers. While the House specified WIOA spending (50%) on skills development for adult participants, the Senate framework drops this requirement. Instead, it would allocate more than $100 million in annual H1-B funding to increase funding levels for Individual Training Accounts (ITAs), or training vouchers. This  boost to funding levels would support higher-cost, higher-impact programs through WIOA.
  • Places a high bar on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). The Senate takes requirements for the ETPL a step further than the House. For standard eligibility, providers will need to meet rigorous criteria, including having programs that result in individuals being work-ready, equipped with strong industry-specific skills and postsecondary credentials at the end of training, and lead to roles that fall in an in-demand industry or occupation with high wages. This creates measured accountability around which programs on the ETPL are proven to lead to lifelong, positive impact on participants. 
  • Emphasizes employer-sponsored training.  Similar to the House’ Critical Industry Skills Fund, the Senate framework better encourages state-level investments into industry or sector partnerships, tapping into state reserves (10% Title I) for employer-based training. The emphasis on work-based learning for the adult, dislocated workers and youth populations promises new onramps to employment in nontraditional sectors, through models like Per Scholas’ Registered Cybersecurity Apprenticeship. 
  • Simplifies eligibility determination for training.  The Senate bill follows the House bill’s lead in streamlining enrollment for training participants by allowing them to participate in an eligible training program while their eligibility determination is completed. This addresses a long-standing challenge for individuals burdened with additional intake, and providers like Per Scholas, who often take on the cost to train  individuals when WIOA eligibility isn’t yet completed before training starts.
  • Integrates alignment between education and training providers. Under Title II WIOA, the Senate framework creates new measures related to participant completion rates in employer-connected learning and in eligible education programs. This creates opportunities for partnerships between adult education programs (primarily through community colleges) and occupational training programs through organizations like Per Scholas, where employer connections are more robust. 

• Authorizes the Workforce Data Quality Initiative (WDQI) and makes robust investments into the workforce data ecosystem. Like the House, the Senate includes provisions to leverage a national source of data, facilitating cross-state wage data and other linkages, and overall, improving data quality on participant earnings and employment. This is a major victory for Per Scholas and other workforce advocates, and will be critical to data transparency around programs under WIOA. 

What WIOA Still Needs:

A final bill must transform WIOA from a patchwork system to one that is better funded to deliver high-quality skills training that supports long-term economic mobility for working families, helps employers hire diverse talent and make investments into their workers, and advances equitable pathways to quality careers.  

Workforce development and opportunities for Per Scholas alumni empower them to thrive with new in-demand skills and experience. It means lifelong impact for workers like Ryan Chapman,  a Per Scholas Greater Boston graduate who, with only a high school diploma and some hardware repair experience, decided to pursue a career in cybersecurity with Per Scholas. In just three months, he earned his CompTIA CySA+ certification. After graduation from Per Scholas, Ryan landed a role with a local employer as a Networking Technician making $61K/year, transforming his life. 

“When I got into Per Scholas I remember feeling like my dreams were actually starting to unfold. I remember feeling blessed. My feelings were reaffirmed on the first day I showed up to smiling faces, new friends, and excitement,” said Ryan. 

There are still critical resource needs, such as funding for effective workforce organizations to scale their efforts and develop new models that address emerging labor market needs— accomplished through a bill introduced by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), the Better Jobs through Evidence and Innovation Act, which establishes the Workforce Development Innovation Fund. Championed by Per Scholas, critical legislation like this would make funding available to evidence-based employment and training programs that generate demonstrated, long-term economic improvements for jobseekers and employers, and produce high-quality evaluations of their impact. 

“The passage of a new Workforce Development Innovation Fund would mean effective workforce training providers across the nation, like us, can keep investing in America’s most valuable asset – our people,” said Plinio Ayala, President and CEO, Per Scholas. “Prioritizing improvements based on evidence would scale programs with the best track record of helping workers and their families achieve self-sufficiency. A resource like this will allow us to reach more people, and bring economic prosperity to more communities.”

Other investments into education and training programs loom on the horizon, with Short-term Pell Grants still a major topic for many workforce advocates. Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce predicts that 72 percent of jobs will require postsecondary education and training in 2031, and most of those jobs are expected to require a 4-year degree. With the Bipartisan Workforce Pell Act (H.R. 6585) at a standstill, Congress needs to be all-in on supporting career pathways and effective workforce development programs that are proven to advance economic mobility for working adults. We recommend lawmakers reinforce our shared recommendations via the America Forward Coalition, a network of more than 100 social innovation organizations that champion equitable, innovative, and effective solutions in workforce and education. 

As Congress charges ahead in summer 2024, Per Scholas will continue to work alongside policymakers to build on the latest WIOA framework, strengthen key reforms, and advocate for an equitable legislation that promotes our priorities. 

For more Per Scholas Perspectives, visit our website or contact Salwa Majeed, Senior Manager, Government Affairs at smajeed@perscholas.org.

Per Scholas Expands Tech Training to Kansas City

 The launch of the new Kansas City campus represents a pivotal moment in the efforts to bridge the digital skills gap and foster economic growth in the region; Now Accepting Applications

KANSAS CITY, MO (JUNE 26, 2024) – National tech training nonprofit Per Scholas launches its new campus in Kansas City, joining Great Jobs KC, the leading workforce development program in Kansas City, to provide holistic information technology training and career development opportunities. This strategic alliance marks a significant milestone in addressing the growing demand for skilled IT professionals in the Kansas City region. Per Scholas Kansas City will offer its no-cost technology skills training from its newest campus located at Offices at Park 39, 300 E 39th St., Kansas City, MO. In addition to Great Jobs KC selecting and investing in Per Scholas, Per Scholas Kansas City has received generous support from Comcast NBCUniversal, Cortex, Missouri Tech First Initiative powered by Cortex, and the NFL Foundation.

At the heart of this collaboration lies the shared commitment to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the ever-advancing tech industry. Per Scholas brings its renowned approach to IT training, which integrates technical education with professional development, including soft and hard skills. Through this partnership, Great Jobs KC and Per Scholas learners will undergo a comprehensive 13-week program designed to equip them with the expertise and confidence needed to excel in the IT field. After graduation, alumni will work with Great Jobs KC Employer Engagement Managers as well as Per Scholas’ Talent Solutions professionals to ensure job attainment.

The Per Scholas Kansas City campus will serve as a hub for innovative learning and career advancement, and offer comprehensive training for CompTIA A+ certification, a globally recognized credential validating foundational IT skills, as well as Google IT Support certification. These skills and certifications will position alumni for success in the rapidly expanding Kansas City tech sector.

Per Scholas President and CEO Plinio Ayala expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to expand our reach to Kansas City through this partnership with Great Jobs KC. By combining our expertise in IT training with their proven track record of workforce development, we are poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and the economic vitality of the region. We are grateful for their investment and the support of Missouri Tech First, Cortex, the NFL Foundation, and Comcast NBCUniversal.”

“Per Scholas’ new Kansas City campus is an exciting development for the region’s workforce,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This initiative is another example of the collaborative partnerships that are investing in our communities and state’s economy. By equipping Missourians with skills needed for high-tech jobs, Per Scholas is helping pave the way for a stronger workforce, more resilient economy, and prosperous future.”

“Per Scholas is providing cutting-edge training that’s helping Missourians prosper by preparing them for jobs in the technology industry,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “We’re grateful for the efforts of this organization as it opens doors for those entering the workforce or sharpening their skills in the Kansas City region.”

Per Scholas Kansas City’s inaugural cohort launched in May, beginning with its best-in-class IT Support course. Applications are open, and interested individuals can learn more and apply here for upcoming cohorts. Prospective learners must be at least 18 years or older, possess at least a high school diploma, authorized to work in the U.S., have a passion for technology, and have availability to be placed in a tech role following completion of the training.

Per Scholas unlocks potential for individuals, communities, and companies by offering rigorous, 12- to 15-week tech skills training and connecting Per Scholas graduates to high-growth careers in technology. Per Scholas Kansas City is the nonprofit’s second campus in Missouri, with outreach including Kansas, joining Per Scholas St. Louis, which has been training technologists in a variety of tech skills since the Cortex Innovation District brought the organization to St. Louis in 2022.

“We frequently hear from companies we grow and companies we recruit that the most important asset in a tech economy is talent,” said Sam Fiorello, President & CEO, Cortex. “Per Scholas is a model that proves that there are many paths beyond a four-year degree from a college or university for preparing someone for a successful tech career. We are proud to expand this training asset beyond the St. Louis region through our Missouri Tech First, powered by Cortex, initiative.”

“Equipping Missourians with the most in-demand skills and industry-informed training to navigate current and future opportunities is a business imperative as much as it is just,” said Kieran Blanks, VP of Workforce Systems at Cortex, which is spearheading the $7 million Missouri Tech First Initiative. “By strategically investing in our workforce and cultivating innovation, we are positioning Missouri as a national frontrunner in the digital economy, enticing companies seeking elite tech talent.”

Aligned with its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, 85 percent of Per Scholas learners are people of color, more than 40 percent identify as women, and more than half have a high school diploma as their highest education credential. Per Scholas graduates are hired into tech roles by more than 850 employer partners nationwide, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups. The Per Scholas model is proven and evidence-based. Per Scholas trains technologists go on to earn three times their pre-training wage in their first job following graduation. Plus, every dollar invested in Per Scholas results in an $8 net economic return.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Per Scholas to bring their transformative IT training program to Kansas City,” said Jimmy Swift, Great Jobs KC Chief Program Officer. “This partnership represents a significant investment in the future of our workforce, providing individuals with the opportunity to gain valuable skills and pursue fulfilling careers in the thriving tech industry.”

“Per Scholas expansion into Kansas City will undoubtedly help build a diverse and thriving workforce by providing access to skills training for in-demand tech careers,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer of Comcast Corporation and President of the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation. “Through Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity and economic mobility, we’re thrilled to partner with Per Scholas in their ongoing work to connect future technologists with leading businesses. We look forward to what we will continue to achieve together.”

“The NFL is proud to support the launch of Per Scholas’ Kansas City campus as they continue to break barriers and create positive social change,” said NFL Vice President, Social Responsibility Clare Graff. “Through Per Scholas’ no-cost tech training, individuals, particularly people of color, are empowered to enter the tech industry and launch thriving careers – a mission that aligns with the NFL’s commitment to create a more equitable society through our Inspire Change social justice initiative.”

To learn more about Great Jobs KC, click here . To learn more about Per Scholas Kansas City, click here, and follow Per Scholas Kansas City on LinkedIn and Facebook.

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, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Comcast NBCUniversal

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.

About Cortex

Cortex is a vibrant space serving as an inclusive economic engine for St. Louis. Cortex creates equitable economic impacts by leveraging high-quality facilities, developing programs that build knowledge and networks, and convening strategic partnerships that attract and support emerging and established companies. Founded in 2002 through a collaboration of Washington University in St. Louis, BJC HealthCare, the University of Missouri – St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the Missouri Botanical Garden, the Cortex Innovation Community (CortexSTL.org) is an internationally recognized hub of innovation and entrepreneurship that is focused on accelerating inclusive economic growth in St. Louis.

About NFL Inspire Change

Inspire Change is the NFL’s year-round social justice initiative aimed at reducing barriers to opportunity, particularly in communities of color, and showcasing how the collective NFL family is working to create positive change in communities across the country. Since the inception of Inspire Change, the NFL has provided more than $375 million to dozens of national grant partners and hundreds of grassroots organizations to advance social justice causes across the four pillars of the initiative: education, economic advancement, police-community relations, and criminal justice reform. To learn more about Inspire Change, please visit www.nfl.com/inspirechange. Follow @InspireChange on X/Twitter and Instagram. On Facebook, follow www.facebook.com/inspirechange. To view the Inspire Change Impact Report click here. 

About Great Jobs KC

Great Jobs KC is a Kansas City-based nonprofit that provides access to college scholarships and tuition-free job training, along with job placement assistance for individuals from low- and modest-income families in the metropolitan area, providing a pipeline of talent for a strong regional workforce. Please join us on our mission for economic independence for all. For more information, visit www.greatjobskc.org.

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