Per Scholas was awarded a grant as part of Governor Greg Abbott’s over $6.3 million in Texas Talent Connection grants. Per Scholas is one of 20 innovative workforce skills training and job placement programs in communities across the state that was awarded from the grants.

The $350,000 grant is for year one of the Creating Economic Mobility and Robust Futures Through Information Technology Training project serving Collin, Dallas, Denton, Fort Bend, Harris, Houston, and Tarrant counties for the Per Scholas Dallas and Per Scholas Houston campuses.

Learn more about this grant here.

Since 2012, Per Scholas has partnered with Barclays, empowering our learners and alumni to unlock their potential. Recently, Barclays hosted a volunteer event at their Times Square location for our learners and alumni, which included mock interviews and networking opportunities with Barclays employees. In addition to the event, Per Scholas alumni currently working at Barclays were featured on Barclays’ large screens in Times Square, showing that our collaboration is about more than just jobs—it’s about mentorship and empowerment.

“Per Scholas technologists are incredibly determined to be successful,” Eliza Tam, Managing Director at Barclays, reflected following the mock interview volunteer event. “Their commitment and determination set them apart from the rest.” Such sentiments echo the notion that Barclays’ support runs deep and that they have an engaging role as partners and as managers.

Eliza met Jeff Ates at a Per Scholas mock interview event years ago while he was still a learner, and it was at that event that she knew Jeff had what it took to become a leader in the industry. 

Per Scholas was a perfect fit for Jeff, as it would provide him with the specific skills and job-readiness training needed to directly launch his career. Jeff was accepted into Per Scholas New York’s 2018 Cybersecurity cohort. Shortly thereafter, he was hired at Barclays for an accelerated apprenticeship opportunity, which quickly grew into his current role as a Unix System Administrator, which was a direct result of the networking portion of the mock interview event with Barclays. “I’ve got my dream job,” Jeff reflected. “My life has changed completely…financially, I’m doing way better than I ever projected. The work/life balance is also great, which is good for my work style.” Jeff continues to excel in his role and is eager to continue his career in technology. 

Our partnership with Barclays has enabled us to expand Per Scholas’ capacity to create stronger connections with a broad range of employers, establishing a sustainable tech talent pipeline across the nation and contributing to the development and implementation of our cybersecurity curriculum, which has trained more than 2,300 technologists. 

We are grateful for our partnership with Barclays, and look forward to more volunteer events including the recent mock interview event, which showcase the multiple facets of our innovative partnership. 

Per Scholas is thrilled to have been selected for a grant renewal with the NFL as part of their Inspire Change social justice initiative. Per Scholas was one of 10 nonprofit partners selected for the measurable positive change they are enacting across the country. 

“We’re thrilled to continue unlocking potential across the country in partnership with the NFL Foundation and Inspire Change’s support,” said Per Scholas President and CEO Plinio Ayala. “With this extended commitment, Per Scholas will continue to provide no-cost tech training to future technologists, unlocking their potential and advancing economic equity for communities across the nation, including the launch of our newest campus in Kansas City.” 

Read more here. 

As cyber risks increase, so does the need for skilled cyber talent. However, a critical talent shortage is leaving organizations scrambling for solutions. Employers and the government are exploring innovative recruitment and training methods to address this gap. One solution is Per Scholas’ new cybersecurity apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Through this program, we will train 40 apprentices by the end of the year, with a goal of training 5K cyber learners during the next five years.

“Apprenticeships are not internships,” says Alanna Hughes, senior vice president of strategy and innovation for Per Scholas. “Registered apprenticeships do not have to be bureaucratic nightmares just because they are more structured,” she says. “We make it easier on the employer to take advantage of the perks by managing the administrative pieces.”

Read more about the need for cyber talent and our new apprenticeship program here!

Per Scholas alumna Ayana Dunlap participated in Stand Together Foundation’s Future of Work panel discussion at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego along with Steve Taylor, Director and Senior Fellow of Education & Workforce at Stand Together Trust, and Ken Ruggiero, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Ascent Funding. 

The panel explored policy and funding reforms crucial for ensuring financial accessibility to alternative education options, beyond traditional college routes. Ayana shared her journey with Per Scholas, highlighting its pivotal role in her tech industry breakthrough and subsequent high-growth career. “Per Scholas laid the IT foundation for my tech career. Many wonder how I advanced so swiftly.” Today, she’s the Assistant Vice President of Operations and Information Technology at the Bank Policy Institute in Washington D.C. 

Learn more about the panel and Stand Together Foundation’s key takeaways here. 

Per Scholas is excited to share that we were awarded a grant from the Apollo Opportunity Foundation as they work to advance their mission of expanding opportunity and supporting economic inclusion for underrepresented individuals. This grant comes shortly after the Apollo Opportunity Foundation celebrated its two-year anniversary.

“We are proud to partner with Per Scholas because of their remarkable results – thousands of individuals have built a better future for themselves and their families because they have participated in Per Scholas programs,” reflected Greg Sills, Apollo Opportunity Foundation Grants Council Member and Per Scholas Board Member.

The grant will not only help fuel Per Scholas’ growth to train more than 5,000 learners in 2024, but also support the expansion of Per Scholas’ Career Accelerator initiative—additional technical upskilling, coaching, and other career development resources to help alumni advance further and more quickly in their careers. The Career Accelerator will enable at least 80% of employed graduates to achieve a thriving wage within two years of their initial job attainment and to put more Per Scholas alumni in manager seats—so that they can hire the next generation of Per Scholas graduates to fill their old positions.

Support from the Apollo Opportunity Foundation goes far beyond just financial support. Over the past year, Apollo employees across the country (including Los Angeles, New York and Phoenix) have supported Per Scholas learners through mock interviews, resume reviews, workshops and networking; shared advice as keynote speakers at graduations and on virtual panels; provided strategic advisory support to key initiatives; and serve on Per Scholas’ National Board of Directors. The Foundation has also helped to raise awareness of our mission, including featuring Per Scholas learners and staff in Apollo Opportunity Foundation’s video showcasing their impact over the past two years.

“The work and mission of Per Scholas clearly embodies the Apollo Opportunity Foundation’s commitment to workforce development,” stated Lauren Coape Arnold, Executive Director, Apollo Opportunity Foundation. “Our people are eager to continue to scale this partnership through creative projects, events, and mentorship opportunities. We look forward to the continued impact of this partnership.”

Per Scholas is immensely grateful to the Apollo Opportunity Foundation for their deep partnership and support, which will help unlock potential for more than 15,000 learners and alumni over the next two years, changing the face of tech.

In the contemporary landscape of technology, there exists an undeniable gender disparity, with women significantly underrepresented in technical roles. Despite advancements in promoting diversity and inclusion, the tech industry continues to grapple with systemic barriers that hinder the full participation of women. According to research from Zippia, women make up 47% of the U.S. workforce, and as of 2022, they only make up 28% of the tech industry, revealing a stark reality: women remain a minority in tech-related professions, which raises concerns about equality, innovation, and societal progress. There has been much progress from organizations like Per Scholas and TEKsystems, who put diversity and inclusion at the forefront of their decision-making to increase results for companies’ bottom lines.

Persistent Gender Disparity Still Exists Across America

Despite concerted efforts to bridge the gender gap in technology, recent data underscores the persistence of disparity in a sense of belonging percentages between men and women, highlighting a substantial underrepresentation in tech. This data reflects a broader trend observed globally, where women continue to encounter obstacles in pursuing and thriving in technical careers and feel they don’t have the same growth opportunities as their male counterparts.

Barriers to Entry and Advancement

Numerous factors contribute to the underrepresentation of women in technology roles. Discrimination and bias in recruitment and hiring processes present formidable barriers, perpetuating a male-dominated culture within tech companies. Additionally, societal stereotypes and cultural norms often discourage girls and women from pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields from an early age, limiting their exposure to technical education and career opportunities. 

To combat barriers to entry and advancement for women in tech, Per Scholas focuses on training individuals typically underrepresented in tech roles – including women. Currently, two in five learners are women, a statistic that has continued to grow as we provide the necessary skills to break into tech. Our partner TEKsystems has also made it a priority to break barriers to entry and advancement by hiring skilled women into tech roles. 

Ammu Nair joined Per Scholas Seattle’s Full Stack Java Developer cohort in 2022. She had 3+ years of Java Development experience but had a hard time obtaining a career in the field.  Ammu had a large career gap due to personal events and felt that since her experience was not from the US, her skills were overlooked. She was able to prove herself throughout Per Scholas’ training, and with TEKsystems’ job placement, launched her career as an Associate Software Engineer. Ammu has aspirations to continue her career in technology and grow into a senior-level Developer.

Impact on Innovation and Diversity

The underrepresentation of women in technology has significant implications for innovation and diversity within the industry. Research suggests that diverse teams, encompassing a variety of perspectives and experiences, are more adept at problem-solving and driving creativity. However, the homogeneity prevalent in many tech workplaces stifles innovation by limiting the range of ideas and approaches.

Furthermore, the absence of gender diversity perpetuates the development of products and services that may overlook the needs and preferences of diverse user demographics. By neglecting the perspectives of women in the design and development process, tech companies risk creating products that fail to address the concerns and interests of half the population, ultimately undermining their market competitiveness and societal impact.

Addressing the Disparity: Towards Gender Equity in Tech

Efforts to address the gender disparity in technology must encompass multi-faceted strategies aimed at promoting inclusivity, equity, and opportunity for women. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, diversity training, and inclusive recruitment practices can help mitigate biases and create more supportive environments for women in tech. TEKsystems’ recent DEI report maps out how to address the lack of diversity in an organization and provides statistics that show while there is progress happening, there is always room for advancement in DEI. 

TEKsystems Global Services has hired many women through Per Scholas training into their workforce upskilling programs provided for their clients. Their technical practice is a safe space for women and a place that is focused on inclusion and connection. By championing diversity and inclusion as core values, tech companies can foster environments where women feel valued, empowered, and able to thrive professionally.

The underrepresentation of women in technology remains a pressing challenge that demands concerted action and commitment from all stakeholders. As the tech industry continues to drive innovation and shape the future of society, it is imperative to dismantle systemic barriers, challenge stereotypes, and foster inclusive cultures so we can create a more equitable and vibrant tech ecosystem that harnesses the full potential of all individuals, regardless of gender. The bottom line is that diversity of thought generates increased ROI and innovation – and that growth lies in the experience and skills of women in tech. To learn more about hiring women in tech, contact us at enterprise@perscholas.org.

Per Scholas Selected by Stand Together Foundation to Become Catalyst Impact Partner 

Per Scholas joins the second cohort of Catalyst Impact Partners, receiving management training, access to new customer-first impact measurement approach, and up to $300,000 in grants over the next three years.

Bronx, NY, March 25, 2024 – Per Scholas is proud to announce it has been selected to participate in Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Impact Grant Program, an initiative cultivating a group of the country’s most transformative nonprofits that demonstrate a better way to transform individual lives and create lasting change.

The Catalyst Impact Grant Program awards each incoming Impact Partner with Principle Based Management™ coaching and consulting, access to a new customer-first measurement approach created by Stand Together Foundation to understand and differentiate their impact, and grants up to $300,000 over three years. By 2025, Stand Together Foundation’s goal is to invest in up to 100 Catalyst partners who have successfully completed the Catalyst Program, committing up to $30 million to accelerate nonprofit impact and transform how society thinks about addressing poverty and social barriers.

Per Scholas is one of 25 Catalysts selected to join the Catalyst Impact Grant Program’s second cohort, which officially kicked off in January 2023. Nonprofits selected have the key ingredients to break the cycle of poverty. They put people at the forefront, see the unique potential in every individual, and are changing the way the country thinks about, talks about, and tackles poverty. The grant program is designed to provide resources for increased effectiveness, including management training and customer feedback tools to help nonprofits grow, scale, and replicate their success. Click here to view a full list of the 2023 Catalyst Impact Partners.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Stand Together Foundation and the Catalyst Impact Grant Program to further empower our learners and alumni to unlock potential in their tech careers,” reflected Per Scholas President and CEO Plinio Ayala. “Stand Together Foundation’s support resonates with our mission as we continue to change the face of technology and uplift individuals and communities, meeting the needs of employers through our innovative tech training.” 

Stand Together Foundation partners with the highest impact nonprofits around the nation, all committed to empowering the individuals they serve through a principled approach. This means that instead of treating people as problems to be managed with sweeping, top-down plans, these organizations help people realize their full potential through bottom-up empowerment and solutions that help individuals transform themselves and the world around them. Today, Stand Together Foundation partners with over 300 nonprofits across all 50 states.

Per Scholas was selected through an extensive vetting process and accepted into the program after a rigorous evaluation focused on impact, customer surveying, reach, and principle alignment. Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Impact Partner Initiative represents an investment in the diversity of nonprofits, audiences, and solutions as the way to end poverty. 

The 25 Impact Partners have diverse program models across the nation and are uniquely suited for rapid iteration and experimentation based on data collection and customer feedback. Each of these organizations focuses on relationships with their customers and prioritizes individual transformation rather than transactional services.

“Our Catalyst partners take a unique approach to helping people overcome barriers that is anchored in a strong belief in people,” said Evan Feinberg, executive director at Stand Together Foundation. “This initiative is about deepening our partnership so that Catalysts can scale their reach, better understand their impact, and ultimately transform the way society thinks about addressing social barriers. If these organizations continue to grow in their effectiveness, and everyone in the country hears about what they are doing, we can transform the entire social sector in America.”

Catalyst Impact Partners will be encouraged and supported to:

• Model a “customer-first” impact vision. Catalyst Impact Partners will participate in Stand Together Foundation’s pioneering measurement approach to understand impact through customer feedback.

• Advance a management culture that empowers employees. Catalyst Impact Partners will focus on leveraging Principle Based Management to empower their employees to empower the people they serve.
• Build the movement toward empowerment. Identify with and advocate for a culture of openness, dignity, mutual benefit, and empowerment among philanthropists, nonprofits, and the broader social sector.

Click here to learn more about Catalyst Impact Partners.

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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/X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

About Stand Together Foundation

Stand Together Foundation is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty in America by driving change from within communities. We are building a community of social entrepreneurs who believe in people, work from the bottom up, and unite with anyone to do right. Since 2016, we have committed over $120 million and counting to fuel the innovation of nonprofits throughout the country to build stronger, safer communities where all people can learn, contribute, and realize their full potential. Our goal is to help nonprofit leaders maximize their impact to transform more lives out of poverty. Learn more at www.StandTogetherFoundation.org.

A recent CIO Dive piece, Unlocking tech innovation through DEI: Insights from TEKsystems and Per Scholas, examines insights from a 2024 TEKsystems DEI report, emphasizing the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done. While there has been increasing recognition of DEI’s importance, many IT professionals remain indifferent. This report identifies challenges, particularly in gender diversity and mentorship programs, and acknowledges that 66% of employees recognize that their organization’s DEI policies could be improved. This article further advocates for IT decision-makers to reaffirm the importance of diversity across their organizations and calls for collaboration between company leaders and HR to do so, including investments in diverse talent and establishing robust mentoring programs. 

Read the full article here.

Per Scholas is proud to announce that we’ve joined Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Impact Partner Grant Program, receiving management training, access to a new Customer First Measurement approach, and up to $300,000 in grants over the next three years. This partnership will directly support the expansion of our Career Accelerator programming, which provides Per Scholas alumni with additional technical upskilling and other professional development opportunities to support their career journey toward a thriving wage.

Stand Together Foundation’s Catalyst Impact Grant Program is built on the same belief that drives our work: investing in people and communities creates lasting change. We are thrilled to partner with Stand Together Foundation through this grant program that puts people at the forefront.

We kicked off our partnership earlier this month, where Per Scholas SVP of Learner and Alumni Success Jay Dierig, Per Scholas VP of Research and Evaluation Dr. Angelica Thompson, and Per Scholas SVP of Development Evelyn Chen attended Stand Together Foundation’s Impact Partner Summit in Carlsbad, CA. During three meaningful days, we had the opportunity to connect with two dozen other nonprofits to trade ideas and inspiration and to further develop strategies for how we can support at least 80% of Per Scholas alumni to attain a thriving wage within two years of their initial job attainment.

Our Catalyst Success Manager, Nick England, also visited us at our Bronx campus, meeting with staff and hearing from current cyber security learners about their individual journeys to Per Scholas and what lies beyond. 

We are so excited to be embarking on this journey together to expand the impact of Per Scholas’ Career Accelerator, unlocking the potential we know exists in every single one of our thousands of alumni.