The Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena, and Stand Together recently announced a collaborative social impact partnership aimed at fostering local community and education efforts. This initiative includes several impactful programs to support economic mobility, youth empowerment, and educational innovation. Per Scholas is one of the partnering organizations participating.

For Per Scholas, this partnership is a vital opportunity to amplify our mission. As part of the “Building a Brighter Future” initiative, we will showcase the value of hiring individuals with nontraditional credentials. By engaging business leaders and hosting interactive networking events, this collaboration will highlight the success stories of technologists trained through immersive programs, helping to create more inclusive hiring practices in the Atlanta area.

Additionally, the partnership aligns with Per Scholas’ broader goals of economic empowerment by spotlighting the untapped potential of diverse talent pools. By working alongside the Hawks, Stand Together, and other community-focused organizations, Per Scholas reaffirms our dedication to transforming lives through technology and driving systemic change in the workforce.

For more details on the initiative, visit the official announcement on Stand Together’s site or explore the Hawks’ announcement.

On October 24th, Blue Meridian held their annual Partnership Summit, which brings together organizations with a shared commitment to improve the lives of marginalized communities in the US. The concept of this year’s summit was “Unlocking Potential,” an integral theme close to Per Scholas’ heart.

Per Scholas’ President and CEO, Plinio Ayala, was a featured speaker at the event, hosting a breakout room panel discussion entitled “Changing the Face of Technology.” Plinio discussed Per Scholas’ commitment to unlocking potential for individuals, families, communities, companies, and local economies through technical skills training. He highlighted the significance of diversity in tech, and the importance of connecting our skilled alumni with employers, enabling alumni to launch thriving, high-growth careers in tech.

Two of our wonderful Per Scholas alumni were featured in the panel: Moja Chatman, who graduated from Per Scholas’ AWS re/Start course in September 2020 and now works as a Junior Software Developer at Barclays, and Jadah Stone, who graduated from Per Scholas’ Network Support course in 2019, and now works as a Systems Engineer at Saks Cloud Services.

Jadah and Moja shared their experiences at Per Scholas, as well as their journey’s to success post-graduation, and emphasized the importance of organizations like Per Scholas in helping others who wish to find a pathway to economic mobility.

On October 17th, Per Scholas’s Diverse by Design hosted a webinar, Unleashing the Power of Diversity in the Energy Sector, which explored the role of digital literacy in preparing underrepresented communities for high-demand, technology-driven roles in the energy sector, particularly in response to policies like Justice40, which aims to deliver 40% of the benefits from climate and clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities.

The event was hosted by Per Scholas’s Senior Director of Diverse by Design, Omoanatse McCarthur, and included a discussion panel followed by a Q&A session. Panelists included Janet Pope, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility & Engagement for the US and Canada at Capgemini, Paul Douglas, President of The JPI Group, Antuan Cannon, Vice President of Talent Development and Innovation at Willdan Energy Solutions, and Tracey Woods, Manager of Business Supplier Diversity with Constellation Energy.

The panelists discussed a variety of topics, including the energy sector’s rapid transition towards renewable resources and innovative technologies, as well as the critical role of digital literacy in unlocking new career pathways. They examined how equipping underrepresented communities with digital skills is essential for creating an equitable workforce capable of thriving in the energy industry’s future. This not only fosters economic empowerment but also drives Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, ensuring that historically marginalized groups have access to meaningful, long-term careers in clean energy.

On October 2, Per Scholas Director of Veteran Recruitment and Partnerships, George Darby III, delivered an impactful session – “Building a Military Ready Culture vs. Military Friendly Culture” at the Military Influencers Conference. His session highlighted the critical difference between simply being Military Friendly and becoming truly Military Ready, urging organizations to go beyond initial outreach to create environments where veterans and their families can thrive long-term.

Darby emphasized that while being Military Friendly is a great first step—helping veterans and military spouses get a foot in the door—it is not enough to retain them. He called for a paradigm shift in organizational culture, advocating for employers to adopt Military Ready practices that take into account the unique challenges veterans and their families face during the transition to civilian life. He shared key strategies such as implementing veteran-specific onboarding programs, providing mental health support, and offering flexible employment options for military spouses.

Darby also spoke about the crucial role that organizations can play in building sustainable career pathways for military spouses, who often struggle with frequent relocations and gaps in employment. He shared how organizations can make a difference by offering remote work opportunities, flexible schedules, and professional development to ensure their success.

The session was a powerful call to action, urging companies to adopt a Military Ready mindset and truly commit to engaging the military community at all levels.

Jenn Fowler Howard, Senior Managing Director of Per Scholas Columbus, was recently recognized for her leadership and commitment to workforce development and equitable access to education. She was featured in Women We Admire’s article “The Top 50 Women Leaders of Columbus for 2024” for her impactful role in overseeing strategic partnerships and program execution to advance Per Scholas’ mission of providing technology training to underrepresented communities.

Howard’s work extends beyond Per Scholas, as she also serves as the founder and executive director of Project C.L.O.U.D.S, a nonprofit focused on leadership development and career preparation for youth. Her recent TEDx appearance highlights her passion for empowering young people and amplifying the influence of positive role models in their lives. This feature highlights Howard’s impact on the community and her dedication to uplifting others through education, leadership, and advocacy. Her leadership in Per Scholas Columbus plays a crucial role in bridging the gap for individuals seeking career advancement in the tech industry, and her personal endeavors further showcase her drive to inspire and support youth in reaching their full potential.

On September 18, Per Scholas Philadelphia’s IT Support cohort was welcomed by TD Bank for a dynamic corporate engagement event. The in-person gathering aimed to foster deeper connections between aspiring technologists and industry professionals while providing hands-on career development opportunities.

The event kicked off with a personal tour of TD Bank’s Philadelphia office, giving participants a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s operations, infrastructure, and technological innovation. This immersive experience allowed the cohort to see firsthand the real-world applications of IT in a corporate setting.

Following the tour, TD Bank’s leadership team held a 30-minute panel discussion. Leaders shared insights on navigating careers in IT, the importance of continuous learning, and what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of technology. The session was interactive, with learners asking questions and gaining valuable advice directly from industry leaders.

The event then shifted to the mock interviews portion of the day, where the IT Support learners engaged in one-on-one interview practice with TD Bank professionals. This one-hour session provided learners with feedback on their interviewing skills, helping them refine their techniques and build confidence for future job opportunities.

The day concluded with a networking lunch, offering time for Per Scholas Philadelphia learners to connect with TD Bank employees, leadership, and their fellow cohort members. This informal setting fostered conversations about career paths, personal experiences, and potential collaborations.

Overall, the event provided an enriching experience for the IT Support cohort, blending professional development with corporate insights, while reinforcing Per Scholas’ mission to create access to career pathways in technology.

On Thursday, September 19, Per Scholas hosted a panel, Build Your Talent Pipeline through Cybersecurity & Tech Apprenticeships, with industry leaders addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges: the shortage of skilled cybersecurity and tech professionals. The event, led by Alanna Hughes, Senior Vice President of Innovation & Strategy at Per Scholas, Patrice Madu, Per Scholas Los Angeles Managing Director, and Terence West, Senior Director of Apprenticeships at Per Scholas, provided attendees with insights into overcoming hiring challenges through innovative apprenticeship programs.

Key speakers included Sabra Johnson, General Manager at ISD; Walter Tucker IV, Program Manager at ISD; Nicole Van Baelen, HR Director at Trane; and Ladena Sampson, Program Manager at Train, who shared their experiences on successfully building a talent pipeline through apprenticeships.

Throughout the event, attendees learned practical strategies to bypass common barriers to acquiring top cybersecurity talent. The discussions provided an in-depth look at the current cybersecurity hiring landscape, helping participants understand how to stay competitive in an evolving market. Speakers also highlighted how apprenticeships can play a crucial role in cultivating future leaders and retaining skilled professionals.

The event was more than just a discussion; it offered an invaluable opportunity for networking and idea exchange. If you’re interested in learning more about apprenticeship opportunities, reach out to Alanna Hughes at [email protected].

Per Scholas is excited to announce that Brian McRae, Managing Director of the Seattle Campus, has been featured in a recent article by the Seattle Metro Chamber. The piece highlights Per Scholas’ mission to promote economic equity through comprehensive, free tech training for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including women, people of color, and veterans. With a strong commitment to advancing this mission, Brian leads our efforts to prepare learners for careers in IT support, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, emphasizing the importance of earning industry-recognized certifications.

Under Brian’s leadership, we strive to equip our graduates with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the tech sector. Through rigorous training and professional development, we provide our learners with the tools necessary to thrive in an evolving industry. In his interview, Brian stressed the critical role of partnerships with local businesses in facilitating job placements for graduates. By collaborating with small to mid-sized companies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to connect motivated learners with meaningful employment opportunities. These partnerships not only help our graduates launch sustainable careers but also contribute to fostering a more inclusive tech workforce in the Seattle area. As we continue to expand our impact, Brian remains dedicated to driving positive change and strengthening our community connections.

Per Scholas’ Executive Vice President of DEIB&C and special advisor to the CEO, Ken Walker, has been featured once again in City & State New York! This time, Ken has been named a New York Trailblazer in Building and Real Estate. This honor celebrates leaders in the movement to reshape New York City’s landscape, improving space and affordability within the city.

Ken was recognized for his important work in helping to guide the growth of Per Scholas’s campus real estate portfolio in New York and in dozens of locations across the country. Ken also helped launch Per Scholas’s Diverse by Design initiative to help organizations build diverse and inclusive tech workspaces, open doors of opportunity to diverse tech talent, and drive diversity in the tech industry. Congratulations, Ken!

See the Trailblazers in Building and Real Estate here.

Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, recognizes and celebrates the many contributions of Hispanic and Latinx people. From celebrating traditional foods and vibrant art to recognizing influential figures, this month highlights the rich culture and significance of Hispanic communities.

As the Hispanic and Latinx populations continue to grow in the United States, their influence in the tech industry is essential for driving diversity and creating inclusive environments. However, they face significant challenges as minorities remain underrepresented in the tech field. It’s fitting that this year’s theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is Pioneers of Change. Pioneers of Change celebrates those breaking barriers today and paving the way for future generations to create greater inclusion and representation in the tech field.

At Per Scholas, our mission is to provide accessible tech education that empowers Hispanic and Latinx communities to overcome underrepresentation. We ensure learners gain the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers and thrive in the industry.

Looking Forward: The Future of Hispanic Heritage in Tech

Currently, the majority of Latinx K-12 learners are in states with the highest demand for technology jobs. At Per Scholas, there are opportunities for further education designed to prepare students for success in the tech industry after high school graduation, allowing them to thrive in the growing field around them. The increasing influence of Hispanics in tech will continue to increase diversity and drive innovation.   

Diversity, particularly in tech leadership roles, is vital because it can improve innovation and creativity, leading to increased revenue. By uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds, ideas, and experiences, we can foster creativity and promote a richer diversity in the tech industry. Diversity enhances the success of Latinx learners and empowers the tech industry to adapt and excel in a competitive field

Hispanic culture contributes to this diversity. It is deeply rooted in community and family, fostering future Latinx tech employees with strong teamwork skills and a foundational work ethic. These values can have a positive influence on the tech industry by providing the collaborative work environment necessary to drive creativity and innovation. 

Hispanic professionals have already made significant contributions in tech. They’re becoming more prominent in large corporations such as Google and Microsoft and are a driving force behind many small businesses and tech startups. 

Per Scholas is leading the way in supporting Hispanic learners. We’re on the cutting edge of supporting and amplifying Hispanic voices by providing exceptional training opportunities. We’ve also formed strong relationships with various partners and supporters. Per Scholas will continue supporting Hispanic learners through expanded programs, partnerships, and outreach into the community.

Breaking Barriers: How Per Scholas Supports Hispanic Students in Tech  

Hispanic and Latinx learners face many challenges entering and thriving in the tech industry, including limited access to tech-focused education in many communities. Financial barriers can also hinder an individual’s ability to further education. A current lack of representation in the tech field means fewer role models and mentors for Hispanics seeking careers in tech.

Per Scholas is helping Hispanic learners overcome these barriers by providing the following:

• Exceptional Training
• Professional Development
• Connections to 850+ Employee Partners
• Community Support

Building a supportive community is particularly important in helping Hispanic learners succeed in tech. Mentorship helps learners develop core technology skills and enables them to build confidence and a deeper understanding of the technology industry.

There are already many incredible success stories about our alumni, including Hispanics in tech:

• Catherine Acevedo: Born in the Dominican Republic, Catherine Acevedo came to New Jersey as a young girl, eventually settling in New York. She worked in the restaurant industry and took courses in business and accounting. While doing computer work, she took an interest in cybersecurity. At the urging of her manager, Catherine enrolled in Per Scholas’s cybersecurity course and landed a great job as an Associate Engineer at Nagarro within two weeks of graduating.
• Angel Juarez: While restocking products at a retail store, Angel Juarez decided to apply for a Software Engineering Course at Per Scholas. He’s now a full-stack engineer with American Express and dreams of continuing his education by studying robotics.

The Role of Hispanic Tech Professionals in Building a More Inclusive Future 

Greater inclusion in tech brings diverse experiences and perspectives to the table. This can lead to more equitable technology solutions, such as improved customer outcomes and increased access to technology for everyone.

Hispanic professionals are already making great strides in the technology sector. A few include Paula Bellizia, who has held prominent positions at Google and Microsoft, and Victor Delgado, who heads Samsung’s Strategic Alliances in South Korea.

Hispanics in tech can inspire the next generation by volunteering at local schools and sharing their tech skills and knowledge. They can also engage in mentorship programs in the workplace, which help promote tech diversity. 

Why Representation Matters: Encouraging the Next Generation of Hispanic Tech Talent

The Hispanic population in the United States has recently passed 65 million, accounting for almost 71% of all population growth between 2022 and 2023. This means representation in tech is crucial for understanding the needs of the Hispanic community and inspiring future generations of Hispanic learners.

Watching successful role models in action through mentorship programs or other community involvement can inspire learners and professionals to choose technology as a future career.

There are several ways Per Scholas is reaching out to empower the next generation. The Centralized Internal Foundation was created to enable learners and diversify the tech industry. We also promote collaborative consulting and develop a customized pipeline of diverse candidates with skills to meet various business needs.

Support for Hispanic learners and diversity in tech can be increased in many ways. Schools can start by training teachers to better understand and support cultural differences. Families can help learners develop better language skills and increase their involvement in school activities. Communities can support local Hispanic organizations and provide learners with the necessary resources to succeed.

The Hispanic Community is increasingly driving the technology boom, but much work still needs to be done. Everyone must do their part to continue making progress. Whether through mentoring, advocating for diversity in tech, or supporting Per Scholas, we can each contribute toward breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future.

If you’re interested in helping us reboot the economy more inclusively, please donate to Per Scholas today.