As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, we’re grateful for the learners, alumni, and partners who make Per Scholas’ work possible. In a new #QuickTake conversation, Per Scholas President Caitlyn Brazill sat down with Brooke DeRenzis, CEO of the National Skills Coalition, to discuss how high-quality, sector-focused training programs can create lasting economic mobility.

The discussion shows how Per Scholas’ no-cost IT training programs combine industry-recognized credentials with supportive services, financial coaching, and strong employer connections. Caitlyn explained how the organization’s dual focus on learners and employers ensures programs match industry needs and prepare learners for meaningful careers.

Learners gain from accelerated training tracks, integrated technical and professional skills, and wraparound supports that help them succeed. With 85% graduation rates and average earnings growth of three times pre-training wages, the programs have a significant impact on economic mobility. Caitlyn and Brooke also explored policy implications. They emphasized that investing in learners — including transportation, childcare, and more — helps more individuals achieve their career goals.

We are thankful for the chance to share this conversation. It celebrates the resilience, dedication, and aspirations of our learners.

📹 Watch the full conversation here: Quick Take with Brooke DeRenzis and special guest Caitlyn Brazill

Los Angeles, CA — We are proud to announce that Per Scholas has officially been selected for the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO)’s new High Road Training Partnerships (HRTP) Fund, a grant program that provides over $17 million in funding for innovative, high-quality workforce training models that are delivered through partnerships with worker-centered organizations and employers and that result in greater equity, sustainability, and job quality.

The program addresses the technology sector’s persistent skills gap and prioritizes underrepresented learners, including opportunity youth and individuals historically excluded from high-quality tech training and employment. In partnership with Goodwill of Southern California and the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department, Per Scholas will deliver a comprehensive training program combining technical instruction, soft skills, and hands-on experience to prepare learners for in-demand technology careers.

Program Highlights:

• 300–500 hours of hands-on instruction covering key IT concepts and professional skills.
• Industry-recognized credentials, including CompTIA A+ and Google IT Support certifications.
• Paid, real-world experience as Digital Navigators, providing community members with digital access support while building practical technology skills.

Through this initiative, participants will gain the education, support, and connections needed to secure long-term employment while also advancing systems-level outcomes such as equitable workforce pathways and inclusive hiring practices in the tech industry. Prospective participants can learn more and apply at https://www.perscholas.org/locations/los-angeles.

“At Per Scholas, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Through the High Road Digital Pathways partnership, we’re changing that—connecting Angelenos from underrepresented communities to the education, tools, and experiences they need to thrive in the technology sector. This initiative isn’t just about training people for jobs; it’s about building a future where digital equity, economic mobility, and human potential move forward together.”
— Patrice Madu, Per Scholas Los Angeles Managing Director

“In 2025, searching for a job, visiting a doctor, or signing up for a bank account all require digital access and know-how. This $1 million investment is catalyzing a workforce of Digital Navigators that will support community members in overcoming the very real digital divide, which we know disproportionately impacts Black, Latino, Indigenous, and other historically disinvested households, while also advancing the Navigators’ skills and experiences for dynamic, cross-sector tech careers here in Los Angeles County. We are so excited to build on our digital equity investments at DEO and across the County through this new program and partnership.” — Kelly LoBianco, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity

Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Care First Community Investment, the twenty grantees selected for the HRTP Fund are each developing or expanding worker- and industry-informed training programs that serve Los Angeles County individuals most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and racial and economic inequities. The sectors, communities, and training models represented through this fund are diverse—ranging from construction, hospitality and tourism, and the creative sector; to communities such as justice-involved individuals and opportunity youth; and models including pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, and other high-quality training approaches.

About DEO:
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity, launched in July 2022, helps job seekers, entrepreneurs, small businesses, major industries, and communities access life-changing opportunities, and is also home to the Office of Small Business, Los Angeles County’s one-stop shop dedicated to prospective entrepreneurs and small business owners. Stay connected with DEO! Follow @EconOppLA on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, subscribe to our newsletter, or visit opportunity.lacounty.gov to learn about DEO services.

About Per Scholas:
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward—aiming to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually by 2030, expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

Detroit, MI — Detroit’s tech and energy landscape is accelerating fast, and a new episode of DisruptED spotlights the people and partnerships fueling that momentum. Recorded live at the Power Up Detroit conference, the episode brings together voices at the forefront of the city’s workforce transformation.

Hosted by Ron J. Stefanski, the conversation features Kenneth Leroy W., Executive Vice President at Per Scholas, and Laura Chavez, Managing Director of Per Scholas Detroit. Together, they discuss how the organization is working closely with employers, community leaders, and grassroots innovators to equip Detroiters with the skills needed in a rapidly evolving economy.

The episode highlights several key drivers shaping Detroit’s next chapter:

• A booming tech and energy sector: Detroit is emerging as a national leader in mobility, clean energy, and advanced technology, creating new opportunities for both residents and employers.

• Community-powered innovation: Movements like Black Tech Saturdays are helping to diversify the tech landscape and build pathways for underrepresented talent.

• Industry-aligned training: Per Scholas continues to expand access to in-demand tech careers, offering flexible, employer-informed programs designed to meet Detroit’s growing workforce needs.
  

As Detroit continues its resurgence, organizations like Per Scholas play a critical role in ensuring local talent is prepared to thrive in the city’s modern economy.

🎧 Listen to the full episode: https://lnkd.in/eJiq3ne8

Since launching in 2019, the Per Scholas Philadelphia campus has trained more than 745 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as IT Support and Cybersecurity.

Today, alongside elected officials, community and employer partners, colleagues, inaugural cohort learners, and friends, Per Scholas Philadelphia hosted its Satellite Campus Launch at OIC Philadelphia with remarks from Bret Perkins, Senior Vice President, External and Government Affairs, Comcast; Sharif Street, Pennsylvania State Senator, District 3; Rue Landau, Councilmember, City of Philadelphia, At-Large; Jeffery Young Jr., Councilmember, City of Philadelphia, 5th District and Melissa Scott, Chief Information Officer, City of Philadelphia.

“At Per Scholas, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. With this new satellite campus, we’re bringing access to no-cost, tech education to North Philadelphia,” stated Joshua Park, Per Scholas Philadelphia Managing Director. “By partnering with OIC Philadelphia, we’re meeting learners where they are, providing the skills, resources, and networks they need to build thriving tech careers. This partnership represents what happens when mission-driven organizations work together to open doors to opportunity and drive lasting impact for Philadelphians.”

“At OIC Philadelphia, we’ve always believed in the power of partnership to create transformative change, and our collaboration with Per Scholas perfectly embodies this principle. In the legacy of our founder, Reverend Dr. Leon Sullivan, we’re committed to connecting our community members to family-sustaining careers with real growth potential. We’re thrilled to welcome Per Scholas to OIC Philadelphia this November, where together we’ll continue breaking down barriers and building pathways to economic opportunity for Philadelphia residents,” stated Sheila Ireland, President & Chief Executive Officer, OIC Philadelphia. “This partnership represents the kind of meaningful collaboration that creates lasting change, one life at a time.“

Per Scholas acknowledges Comcast for their generous contribution that made this Satellite Campus possible.

With a proven tech training model including both in-person and remote learning hubs, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the greater Philadelphia area. Per Scholas Philadelphia is transforming lives and will continue to shape Philadelphia’s future as a thriving technology hub by equipping Per Scholas Technologists with in-demand tech skills at no cost.

To learn more about Per Scholas Philadelphia, follow them on LinkedIn or Per Scholas Philadelphia.

About Per Scholas

As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward— expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills. With 20+ campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

About OIC Philadelphia

Founded in 1964 by Reverend Dr. Leon Sullivan, OIC Philadelphia has stood at the intersection of social justice, workforce development, and economic empowerment. Our mission is to foster connections to family-sustaining jobs with clear career ladder opportunities, enabling economic mobility for underserved Philadelphia residents. Through industry-recognized vocational training, comprehensive support services, and strategic employer partnerships, we create pathways to meaningful employment that transforms not just individual lives, but entire communities.

Located at 1231 N. Broad Street in a 100,000 square foot facility, OIC Philadelphia serves as a beacon of opportunity in North Philadelphia. With over 55,000 alumni since our founding, we have demonstrated unwavering commitment to breaking cycles of poverty and creating sustainable pathways to economic stability. Our organization operates with a deep understanding that workforce development extends beyond skills training to encompass holistic support that addresses the complex barriers facing our participants.

At Per Scholas, we believe talent is everywhere, even if opportunity is not. Our mission is to advance economic equity through rigorous technical training, professional development, and access to high-growth careers. That mission takes bold partners who believe in the transformative power of skills-first training. With that, we are proud to highlight our partnership with Cognizant.

Through a generous investment, Cognizant is directly enabling Per Scholas to scale our reach and impact, aiming to train 8,500 learners across 25 cities between June 2025 and December 2026. This partnership is the kind of strategic investment that amplifies our success model and our belief that the future isn’t waiting, and neither should talent development.

Cognizant’s investment aims to support aspiring technologists from low- to moderate-income households to pursue careers across five critical pathways: Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Infrastructure Technology, and Software Development. Per Scholas’ training combines 80% technical instruction with 20% professional development, all reinforced by wrap-around supports such as financial coaching, one-on-one counseling, and career readiness services. The result? Learners not only gain in-demand skills, but they are holistically prepared to succeed in the workforce and thrive long-term.

This work is especially critical as the U.S. faces a projected shortfall of 10 million unfilled tech jobs by 2030. Together, we are not just removing barriers for individuals hoping to enter thriving careers; we are shaping a more sustainable tech workforce and filling a critical skills gap that could stall economic progress.

As we move forward in this partnership, we are energized by the potential to reimagine workforce development for the AI era. Per Scholas President Caitlyn Brazill shared:

“What excites me most is the opportunity to use AI not just to build better tools, but to build better lives. With Cognizant’s support, we’re ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds can harness transformative technologies and pursue meaningful careers. Together, we are amplifying the skills-first narrative and showing the world that talent truly can come from anywhere.”

This October marks the second anniversary of Cognizant’s Synapse Initiative and we’re proud to celebrate this next chapter together. This partnership exemplifies the power of aligned vision, meaningful investment, and shared purpose.

Per Scholas is proud to once again be selected as a beneficiary of The New York Times Communities Fund holiday giving campaign, marking our third consecutive year participating in this 114-year-old tradition. Since its inception, the Fund has raised more than $354 million to strengthen communities through the generosity of New York Times readers and supporters.

The New York Times’ continued recognition of Per Scholas underscores our impact in advancing economic mobility through technology education. Support from the Fund in 2024-2025 enabled us to provide 2,282 individuals with the resources needed to participate in our no-cost technology and AI training programs, helping them launch life-changing careers in high-growth fields.

All funds raised from this campaign benefit our Career Access Fund, which provides learners with the essential materials, like textbooks, lab supplies, and certification exam fees needed to succeed. 

Thanks to many generous supporters Per Scholas has now empowered more than 30,000 individuals to pursue thriving careers in tech since 1995. This year, donations to the Fund will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $1 million, by an anonymous donor, doubling the impact of every gift.

To learn more about Per Scholas’s partnership with The Fund and to make a donation, please visit perscholas.org/nyt-communities-fund-2025.

To learn more about The New York Times Communities Fund, visit nytcommunitiesfund.org.

New York, NY – October 21, 2025 – Per Scholas is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of 50 nonprofit organizations worldwide to receive a grant from the Citi Foundation’s 2025 Global Innovation Challenge, which is distributing a collective $25 million to accelerate youth-employability initiatives. 

Launched by the Citi Foundation, the 2025 Global Innovation Challenge awards each selected organization a grant of $500,000 to pilot or scale innovative employment solutions for low-income youth, building on Citi and the Citi Foundation’s longstanding commitment to young people and their economic futures. The grant supports programs such as digital and AI upskilling, technical & vocational training, work-based learning, career guidance, entrepreneurship resources, and mentorship.

Per Scholas is committed to closing the tech-skills divide and advancing economic mobility through no-cost, rigorous technical training that leads to high-growth tech careers. Over the past three decades, the organization has supported 30,000+ learners across the U.S. in launching tech careers through programs in IT Support, Cybersecurity, Cloud, Software Engineering, and more. 

With the grant support from the Citi Foundation, Per Scholas will further scale its model—expanding its reach, deepening impact, and innovating new tech-training pathways to ensure youth access to meaningful, sustainable careers.

• Youth unemployment remains a global challenge. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates 65 million young people are unemployed worldwide. 
• Employers report a major barrier: mismatch of skills—63% say this blocks hiring of qualified workers.
• With rapid digital transformation underway, demand is growing for new skills in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and other high-growth tech sectors.

By combining employer-aligned technical instruction, professional-skills development and employer partnerships, Per Scholas addresses these gaps and helps learners move from under-employment to thriving technology careers.

Over the next two years, Per Scholas will deploy this funding to:

• Expand access in the five existing markets: Los Angeles, New York, Orlando, Chicago, and the greater Washington, D.C area..
• Develop new or enhance curriculum in emerging tech sectors (e.g., AI, cloud infrastructure).
• Strengthen employer partnerships to boost job attainment outcomes for Per Scholas Technologists.

Through this partnership, Per Scholas and the Citi Foundation are investing in the promise and potential of young adults. By providing access to no-cost, high-quality tech training and career pathways, this collaboration will help young people gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. With the Citi Foundation’s support, Per Scholas will continue to empower the next generation of technologists—creating pathways to meaningful employment, long-term economic mobility, and a stronger, more inclusive workforce.

About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, we are charting an ambitious path forward— expanding access to high-growth tech careers and fostering economic mobility nationwide. Since 1995, we’ve offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills. On average, our learners earn 3x their pre-training wage in their first role after Per Scholas. With 25 campuses and remote programs, we partner with employers—from Fortune 500 companies to startups—to create inclusive talent pipelines in fields like Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, and Software Engineering. More than half of our learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone across urban, suburban, and rural communities, empowering individuals to unlock their potential and drive transformative economic change nationwide.

Learn more at PerScholas.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.

Citi Foundation

The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, catalyze job opportunities for youth, and reimagine approaches to building economically vibrant communities. The Citi Foundation’s “More than Philanthropy” approach leverages the enormous expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation. For more information, visit www.citifoundation.com. 

Media Contact
For Per Scholas:
Mackenzie Loewen, communications@perscholas.org 

For Citi Foundation:
Julia Drabick: (919) 219-4605, julia.drabick@citi.com

Per Scholas is proud to announce a transformational $1 million grant from Truist Foundation to expand access to no-cost technology training across multiple markets, fueling economic mobility and opportunities for skilled individuals launching careers in technology.

This grant supports our initiative, Scaling Career Accelerator and Satellite Programs in Truist Markets, which will provide training to nearly 1,000 learners, including both immersive learners and alumni upskillers.

“This grant from Truist Foundation is a powerful endorsement of our model and shared commitment to building a strong tech workforce in the United States,” said Per Scholas CEO Plinio Ayala. “Together, we’re helping learners build in-demand skills and launch life-changing careers in the United States.”

With Truist Foundation’s support, Per Scholas will:

• Scale Career Accelerator courses in fast-growing fields such as AI Prompt Engineering, Ethical Hacking, and Cloud Computing, enrolling 600 Per Scholas alumni across Baltimore, Dallas, Houston, Orlando, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, North Carolina, and the National Capital Region.
• Launch four new Satellite training sites in Cincinnati/Kentucky, North Carolina, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia, enrolling 335 learners and building strong local employer pipelines.

“At Truist, our purpose is to inspire and build better lives and communities and to do this we support a wide variety of initiatives like Per Scholas,” said president of Truist Foundation, Lynette Bell. “I’m excited to see how they’ll be able to expand access to no-cost technology training that unlocks economic mobility and career pathways for learners across our footprint. Together we’re strengthening local talent pipelines and fueling meaningful growth in the technology space one learner, one opportunity and one future at a time.”

By expanding both advanced upskilling and new market entry, this investment will ensure that more individuals gain the skills and networks needed to thrive in the digital economy.

Truist Foundation’s investment reflects a shared vision, creating greater economic mobility through skills-based training and access to opportunity. By partnering together, we are driving impact at scale and helping communities across the country unlock potential and launch thriving careers in technology.

We are grateful to Truist Foundation for its commitment to building stronger communities, companies, and economies.

Per Scholas is proud to announce a new milestone in collaboration with IBM to expand access to the innovative IBM SkillsBuild platform. This partnership will support the training of immersive learners and alumni technologists over the next year, including an opportunity for learners and alumni to access IBM SkillsBuild, to deepen their technical expertise, pursue additional certifications, and unlock potential through new career opportunities.

By integrating IBM SkillsBuild into our training model, Per Scholas learners will have access to an even broader range of resources designed to sharpen their technical skills and prepare them for long-term success in the ever-evolving tech industry.

IBM will also support our mission by connecting with learners and alumni through weekly volunteer engagements for the month of October. This partnership marks a new chapter in our collaboration with IBM, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing economic mobility and preparing individuals for the jobs of the future.

Per Scholas was proudly represented at the 2025 Military Influencers Conference (MIC) this fall. As one of the largest convenings in the country focused on empowering the military community through networking, innovation, and cross-movement collaboration, the MIC is a powerful space for connection. 

This year, our presence included George Darby III, CPR, CVR, Director of Veterans Recruitment & Partnerships; Lindsey Fawley, lISW-S, Director of Learner Support and Army Spouse; Marlena Staley, CFP, AFC, MBA, CFSW, Sr. Manager, Financial Coach, Marine Corps Spouse & Air Force Mother; Katherine Tran, Technical Instructor and Navy Spouse; Lauren Blosser, Senior Manager of Development National Accounts; Ryan Spears, Manager, Recruitment & Admissions, Per Scholas Atlanta; and Feleg Abraham, Associate, Recruitment & Admissions, Per Scholas Atlanta. 

Per Scholas is continuing to further the pathway to economic mobility for military service members, veterans, and spouses as they transition to civilian life by offering no-cost, in-demand, technical skills training. 

Learn more about Per Scholas Vets in Tech here.