Caitlyn Brazill Appointed to Inaugural America Forward Policy Council

NEW YORK, NY — March 3, 2026 — Per Scholas proudly announces that Caitlyn Brazill, President at Per Scholas, has been appointed to the inaugural America Forward Policy Council, a new national leadership body convened by the America Forward Coalition to help shape evidence-based public policy and advance innovative solutions that expand economic opportunity across the United States.

The America Forward Policy Council brings together 15 distinguished leaders from across public policy, nonprofit leadership, advocacy, and civic innovation. Members were selected for their deep expertise and demonstrated commitment to advancing practical, results-driven solutions addressing some of the nation’s most pressing challenges — including education, workforce development, economic mobility, youth wellbeing, and civic participation.

As a member of the inaugural council, Brazill will help guide the coalition’s national policy agenda, providing strategic insight to strengthen partnerships between policymakers and social innovators working to expand opportunity and drive measurable outcomes for communities nationwide.

“I’m honored to join the America Forward Policy Council at a moment when evidence-based policy and cross-sector collaboration are essential to expanding economic mobility,” said Brazill. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen how workforce development organizations and social innovators can inform smarter public policy when their outcomes and community impact are centered in data-driven decision-making. I look forward to working alongside fellow council members to advance policies that scale proven solutions and create equitable pathways to opportunity.”

The Policy Council will serve as a strategic advisory body supporting America Forward’s mission to unite social entrepreneurs with policymakers to champion policies that foster innovation, reward impact, and scale proven solutions. Working alongside the coalition’s Advisory Board and staff, council members will help ensure policy priorities reflect the real needs and aspirations of communities across the country.

Brazill joins a cohort of nationally recognized leaders committed to advancing evidence-based approaches that expand access to opportunity and strengthen the future of work.

Her appointment further underscores Per Scholas’ ongoing commitment to shaping national workforce policy and advocating for solutions that connect individuals to high-growth careers while helping employers build diverse, future-ready talent pipelines.

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 $35 billion in increased personal earnings. 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.

Caitlyn Brazill Joins National Skills Coalition Advisory Council

NEW YORK, NY — March 3, 2026 — Per Scholas proudly announces that Caitlyn Brazill, President of Per Scholas, has been appointed to the A New Promise of Work Advisory Council at the National Skills Coalition (NSC), a new cross-sector leadership body convened to shape a forward-looking national workforce agenda that expands access to skills, good jobs, and long-term economic mobility.

The advisory council brings together 34 distinguished leaders from workforce development, public policy, business, and nonprofit sectors. Members were selected for their expertise and commitment to advancing practical, results-driven solutions addressing workforce challenges, economic equity, skills training, and the future of work.

As a member of the council, Brazill will provide strategic guidance to NSC, helping shape policies that strengthen workforce systems, expand pathways to valuable skills and high-quality jobs, and drive measurable outcomes for workers, learners, and communities nationwide.

“We are at a pivotal moment where workforce systems must evolve to meet the changing needs of workers and employers,” said Brazill. “I’m honored to join the National Skills Coalition Advisory Council and collaborate with leaders across the country to advance workforce solutions that create equitable opportunities and economic mobility for all.”

The council’s work will inform NSC’s A New Promise of Work initiative, which aims to reposition workforce development as a first-choice investment—strengthening communities, expanding access to opportunity, and supporting long-term economic growth. Throughout 2026, NSC will engage local leaders, learners, and employers to ensure the agenda reflects real-world needs and prepares workers for an evolving economy shaped by technology and demographic change.

Brazill’s appointment reinforces Per Scholas’ continued commitment to shaping national workforce policy and advocating for strategies that connect skilled technologists to in-demand careers while helping employers build diverse, future-ready talent pipelines.

Read the official press release here. 

About Per Scholas
As Per Scholas celebrates 30 years of impact, the organization is 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, Per Scholas has offered no-cost tech training to more than 30,000 technologists in the most sought-after tech skills, generating over $35 billion in increased personal earnings. On average, learners earn three times their pre-training wage in their first role after completing a program. With 25 campuses and remote programs, Per Scholas partners 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 learners hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential.

Per Scholas is 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.

Per Scholas Appoints Dr. Sylvia R. Mitchell as Executive Vice President of Curriculum, Design & Development

NEW YORK, NY — February 25, 2026 — Per Scholas today announced the appointment of Dr. Sylvia R. Mitchell as Executive Vice President of Curriculum, Design & Development, welcoming her to the organization’s National Leadership Team. In this role, Dr. Mitchell will lead the national strategy, design, and development of industry-aligned curriculum that prepares adult learners for high-growth careers in technology and critical infrastructure.

Dr. Mitchell will oversee curriculum architecture, learning experience design, and technical program development across multiple domains, including IT, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI/ML, and advanced manufacturing. Her leadership will help ensure that Per Scholas continues to deliver scalable, workforce-driven training solutions that connect learners to sustainable career pathways and advance economic mobility nationwide.

Dr. Mitchell brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience in education and workforce development, with a strong focus on serving adult learners and underserved communities. Throughout her career, she has led large-scale workforce transformation initiatives across multiple states and secured more than $50 million in grant funding to expand access to career-connected education and employment opportunities.

Prior to joining Per Scholas, Dr. Mitchell held several senior leadership roles, including Superintendent of Schools, Vice President of Schools, and Chief of Strategic District Supports. In these roles, she led organizational transformation efforts to strengthen workforce pipelines, improve employment outcomes, and align education systems with evolving industry needs.

A nationally recognized speaker, author, and advocate for workforce equity and community transformation, Dr. Mitchell is driven by a belief in the power of education and opportunity to transform lives and communities. Grounded in a lifelong commitment to service, she remains focused on building systems that enable adult learners to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.

Dr. Mitchell joins Per Scholas at a pivotal moment as the organization continues to expand its national footprint and advance innovative, employer-aligned training programs designed to meet the needs of both learners and industry.

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 $35 billion in increased personal earnings. 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.

Per Scholas Launches New AI Solutions Developer Alumni Course with Support from TEKsystems

Innovative upskilling program expands access to advanced AI training for tech professionals navigating a rapidly evolving workforce

New York, NY — January 2026 — Per Scholas, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic mobility through no-cost technology training, today announced the launch of its new AI Solutions Developer course for alumni, made possible through the generous support of long-time corporate partner TEKsystems, a leading provider of IT talent and services.

Launched on January 26, 2026, the inaugural cohort marks a significant expansion of Per Scholas’ Career Accelerator Upskilling offerings and reflects the organization’s continued investment in lifelong learning, advanced technical upskilling, and workforce relevance in an AI-driven economy. A recent analysis of Career Accelerator showed that it led to a 32% wage increase for Per Scholas graduates who completed instructor-led upskilling courses. 

As artificial intelligence reshapes job roles across industries, the AI Solutions Developer course is designed to equip experienced technologists with in-demand, applied skills, such as Prompt engineering techniques and Python, that align directly with employer needs. The program blends hands-on technical instruction with real-world tools and use cases, enabling alumni to strengthen their competitiveness in a rapidly changing labor market.

“This course represents an important evolution in how we support our alumni—not just in launching their careers, but in helping them continue to grow and adapt as technology and employer expectations change,” said Per Scholas President, Caitlyn Brazill. “With TEKsystems’ support, we’re expanding access to advanced AI skills that are increasingly essential for today’s workforce.”

TEKsystems’ sponsorship supports the first cohort of the AI Solutions Developer course, underscoring the company’s commitment to developing future-ready tech talent and advancing innovative workforce solutions.

“As AI transforms the nature of work across industries, employers need access to practical, in‑demand skills,” said TEKsystems Director of Marketplace Inclusion, John Lullen. “Through our ongoing partnership with Per Scholas and this innovative alumni course, we’re helping technologists build the capabilities they need to thrive in the next generation of tech roles.”

The AI Solutions Developer course is part of Per Scholas’ broader strategy to strengthen career mobility and long-term economic opportunity by pairing immersive, employer-aligned training with continuous upskilling opportunities for alumni nationwide.

With strong early demand—over 100 applications received for the inaugural cohort—the program demonstrates the growing appetite among technologists for advanced, practical AI education that keeps pace with industry change.

View Press Release.

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 $35 billion in increased personal earnings. 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.

About TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services

We’re a leading provider of business and technology services. We accelerate business transformation for our customers. Our expertise in strategy, design, execution and operations unlocks business value through a range of solutions. We’re a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 customers—including 80% of the Fortune 500—across North America, Europe and Asia, who partner with us for our scale, full-stack capabilities and speed. We’re strategic thinkers, hands-on collaborators, helping customers capitalize on change and master the momentum of technology. We’re building tomorrow by delivering business outcomes and making positive impacts in our global communities. TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services are Allegis Group companies.

 Learn more at TEKsystems.com.

The BlackRock Foundation’s Investment in Per Scholas Is Expanding Economic Mobility Across North Carolina
New data shows 339 learners trained statewide through the grant, earning an average of 2.6X their pre-program income
Graduation ceremony held today in Uptown Charlotte celebrated graduates on pathways to tech careers

Charlotte, NC — December 18, 2025 — Today, free tech-training program Per Scholas North Carolina and The BlackRock Foundation celebrated a major milestone: 339 North Carolinians trained in less than one year through their IT workforce training initiative. New data shows graduates are earning, on average, 2.6 times their pre-program income, representing an estimated $100 million in lifetime earnings uplift.

Earlier this year, The BlackRock Foundation committed $1 million to Per Scholas North Carolina to expand access to high-quality tech training and prepare more North Carolinians for in-demand jobs. Less than a year into the partnership, the initiative is well on track to meet its two-year goal of training 530 learners, with graduates earning industry-recognized credentials and already securing in-demand jobs across the technology sector including Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Data Analytics.

The program is reaching those who stand to benefit most: 38% of graduates hold only a high school diploma, and 42% are parents with children under 18. The resulting estimated income gains are helping families build long-term financial stability.

“As a proud North Carolina resident, I’m thrilled to see The BlackRock Foundation partnering with Per Scholas to expand opportunity in the community,” said Carrie Schroen, a BlackRock Managing Director. “Helping more people experience financial well-being – including building the foundation for a secure retirement – is central to BlackRock’s purpose. We’re honored to invest in the region’s future. These students are not only building careers, they’re paving the way toward lasting financial security and I’m excited to see the impact they will make in our communities.”

One of today’s graduates, Tim Kinsey, enrolled in Per Scholas Western North Carolina’s IT Support course in June 2025 while he was juggling a series of hourly service jobs and earning below the region’s basic living-wage thresholds. Today, he graduated and has already secured a full-time Computer Support Technician I role with Henderson County, earning an annual salary nearly double his previous income and beginning a stable career track rarely accessible in rural counties without formal tech training.

“Before Per Scholas, I was piecing together several jobs just to get by,” said Tim Kinsey, Per Scholas North Carolina Graduate. “Now I’m stepping into a career with real growth, benefits, and the chance to build a future for my family — all while staying in the community I love.”

The program’s impact is especially significant in Western NC, where typical entry-level wages are $15–$17 per hour. Launched in partnership with Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College after Hurricane Helene, Per Scholas Western NC is creating pathways into resilient, higher-wage tech careers and is on track to train 100 rural learners by 2026.

“We’re just getting started in rural North Carolina, and the results already speak for themselves. When learners double or even triple their income, that’s not only life-changing for their families — it strengthens entire communities,” stated Per Scholas North Carolina Senior Managing Director Mike Terrell. “These are dollars that stay local, support small businesses, and help rural economies grow. Thanks to The BlackRock Foundation’s grant we’re proving what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.”

In North Carolina—where BlackRock has invested over $100 billion in NC-based public companies on behalf of clients—the BlackRock Foundation is partnering with Per Scholas to fuel greater economic opportunity. Through the firm’s investments on behalf of clients and The Foundation’s philanthropic support, BlackRock is supporting North Carolina families in taking steps to secure their financial futures.

“Tim’s story exemplifies the mission of The BlackRock Foundation,” said Claire Chamberlain, President of The BlackRock Foundation. “By ensuring people have the skills for in-demand jobs, Per Scholas is helping more North Carolinians get on the path to thriving wage careers in their own communities so they can support their families and build financial security.”

Today’s ceremony in Uptown Charlotte celebrated graduates’ achievements and featured remarks from Per Scholas alumni living in Charlotte and Western North Carolina, and from BlackRock Managing Director, Carrie Schroen.

Per Scholas also announced the launch of its third cohort in January, continuing its momentum and opening doors for even more North Carolinians in 2026. To register for the next cohort, check out the Per Scholas North Carolina registration page: https://perscholas.org/locations/northcarolina/.

Since launching in 2020, Per Scholas North Carolina has trained more than 1,000 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as Cybersecurity, End User Support and Salesforce Administrator. Alumni have earned jobs at employers including Capgemini, Humana, and Wells Fargo.

About The BlackRock Foundation

Guided by BlackRock’s purpose to help more and more people experience financial well-being, The BlackRock Foundation focuses on increasing economic security for low- to moderate- income households by helping them earn, save and invest – earlier, more often and for their futures. With our partners, we aim to support the building of a financial safety net to protect against shocks that widen disparities and make it easier to build wealth and support upward mobility.

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, generating over $2 billion in increased personal earnings. 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.

October 30, 2025 — Per Scholas is proud to share that its Boston campus has been recognized by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) for excellence in non-credit programming. This distinction places Per Scholas among the inaugural cohort of eight organizations acknowledged for meeting the highest standards of educational quality and impact in non-credit learning.

This recognition marks a significant milestone in advancing quality assurance and accountability for non-credit education across the region. Selected organizations—including Central Connecticut State University, Great Bay Community College, Kennebec Valley Community College, MCPHS University, New York University School of Professional Studies, Per Scholas, and York Community College—completed a comprehensive evaluation process based on NECHE’s Non-Credit Quality Assurance Framework.

Each organization underwent an extensive review process, including the submission of an evidence-based report, a peer evaluation site visit, and a review by NECHE’s Non-Credit Recognition Committee, which is composed of Commissioners and external experts. The Commission formally recognized Per Scholas and the other institutions during its September 2025 meeting.

Per Scholas’ recognition underscores the organization’s commitment to ensuring that non-credit programs meet the highest standards of educational excellence. The recognition validates the rigor, quality, and workforce relevance of Per Scholas’ training programs, providing learners and employers alike with a trusted, third-party endorsement of skills and outcomes.

The NECHE Non-Credit Recognition initiative reflects the Commission’s broader efforts to respond to the growing number of students enrolled in non-credit programs and the need for consistent quality standards across this expanding education sector.

Learn more about NECHE’s Non-Credit Recognition Process at neche.org.

Per Scholas’ Career Accelerator Program Drives Wage Increases for Early Career Tech Workers 

New research reveals upskilling leads to a 32% wage increase, proving that targeted, continuous training effectively closes the skills and wage gap 

Bronx, NY – October 20, 2025 – Per Scholas, a national tech training nonprofit, today announced the findings of a new study that highlights the critical role of continuous upskilling in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. The study, detailed in the white paper “Upskilling: A Pathway to Economic Advancement for Early Career Tech Workers,” showcases how the organization’s innovative Career Accelerator program effectively promotes continued economic mobility for tech professionals. 

Per Scholas launched its Career Accelerator program in 2021 to tackle a persistent, industry-wide challenge: ensuring graduates’ career momentum lasts long after their first job. This research underscored the critical need for a sustainable pathway to continued career growth, especially as AI continues to evolve workforce needs. 

Graduates who completed instructor-led upskilling courses saw average earnings grow by 32%—a $14k annual increase for a full-time worker—compared to their first post-graduation job. While this finding is based on unadjusted data, it demonstrates broad gains across learners. After controlling for key demographics, participants still experienced a significant wage premium. This compares to a 17% increase or $7k for alumni who did not complete a Career Accelerator course.

Additionally, after controlling for key demographic, educational, and work experience variables, the researchers found a statistically significant increase in earnings among those who complete an instructor-led upskilling course, compared to those who did not engage — an annual differential of $4,200. The data also suggests that the training format is critical, with instructor-led courses yielding the highest wage gains.

“As technology’s pace accelerates, upskilling is crucial for economic and career growth,” said Caitlyn Brazill, President, Per Scholas. “Our study shows that initiatives like Career Accelerator effectively close skills gaps and boost tech workers’ earning potential and career trajectories. To empower our workforce and build a resilient economy, we urge leaders to invest in working adults, track their progress, design inclusively, and keep skills agile—a roadmap for individual prosperity and economic resilience.”

Per Scholas’ Career Accelerator offers a large variety of short-format, career pathways-aligned upskilling courses designed to fit the busy lives of working professionals, with remote, instructor-led, and asynchronous options available. The program, which currently serves Per Scholas alumni, was designed to accommodate any incumbent workers, addressing a growing need for skills training with the rise of AI.

“Per Scholas didn’t just teach me IT skills; they helped me see a future I never thought possible,” said Per Scholas alumna Kenetra Woods. “From being laid off to becoming a System Administrator–earning 20% more–my experience with Career Accelerator was truly life-changing. I learned not only technical skills, but the importance of showing up every day, staying focused, and believing that I belonged. Now I mentor new alumni, helping them navigate the path I once found so daunting.”

Download now the full white paper, Upskilling: A Pathway to Economic Advancement for Early Career Tech Workers.

# # # 

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.

Per Scholas Launches 25th Campus in Partnership with JobTrain: Expanding No-Cost Tech Training in the Bay Area 

Learners will earn a CompTIA A+ certification, laying the foundation for high-growth tech careers

Menlo Park, CA – October 2, 2025 – In an innovative new partnership, Per Scholas has teamed up with JobTrain, a Bay Area-based educational and training institution, to launch its 25th campus in the heart of Silicon Valley. This collaboration aims to address the talent needs of the area’s booming tech industry while creating new pathways to economic mobility for local residents. 

“Establishing Per Scholas’ twenty-fifth campus is a landmark moment, as we bring our tech programs to the pinnacle region of technological innovation,” said Plinio Ayala, CEO at Per Scholas. “A significant training opportunity gap persists in the region. By partnering with JobTrain, an institution with deep roots and unmatched expertise in the Bay Area, we can combine our proven, no-cost technical training with their exceptional professional development. Together, we can unlock the potential of overlooked talent and build a robust tech workforce for the region’s leading companies.”

The Bay Area, a global tech industry hub, has a continuous and robust demand for IT Technicians and System Administrators. To close the talent gap, the campus will offer a 13-week entry-level IT Support course that builds a strong foundation in system administration, with a focus on supporting Windows server infrastructures and managing IT services using platforms like ServiceNow. In line with Per Scholas’ AI vision, learners will build fluency with generative AI tools like ChatGPT and benefit from innovations such as our AI tutoring chatbot. These skills are becoming critical for IT roles in troubleshooting, system management, and career preparation. Upon successful course completion, learners will earn a CompTIA A+ certification and be equipped to pursue a range of roles, such as IT Technician or System Administrator.

“For decades, JobTrain has been dedicated to providing our community with pathways to prosperity. In a region so deeply connected to technological innovation, access to the skills needed for high-growth tech careers is critical,” said Barrie Hathaway, President & CEO at JobTrain. “That’s why our partnership with Per Scholas is a game-changer. We are not just preparing individuals for a job; we are empowering them with the skills, confidence, and network to build lasting careers and thrive.”

“We’re proud to support this partnership between Per Scholas and JobTrain,” says longtime supporter and Bay Area native Charlie Wolfson, Executive Director of Arrow Impact. “By launching a new campus in Silicon Valley, Per Scholas and JobTrain are building on the region’s legacy as a global innovation hub and ensuring that more people from underrepresented backgrounds can share in its future and shape the breakthroughs to come.”

The first cohort will begin on October 6, 2025, at JobTrain’s offices at 1200 O’Brien Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025. The courses will follow a hybrid on-site and virtual model and interested candidates can confirm their eligibility and apply here. 

To learn more about JobTrain, please visit jobtrainworks.org. To learn more about Per Scholas Bay Area, click here.

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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 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. 

About JobTrain

JobTrain is a nationally accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational and training institution serving the Bay Area since 1965. With a mission to help those most in need to succeed, JobTrain offers industry-relevant vocational training, academic instruction, and essential skills development, along with rapid-employment services through its Career Centers in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. More than 190,000 individuals have turned to JobTrain for the skills, confidence, and connections to build sustainable careers. In partnership with employers and community organizations, JobTrain transforms lives and strengthens communities. Learn more at www.jobtrainworks.org.

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

Charlotte, N.C., September 25, 2025 — Since launching in 2020, the Per Scholas North Carolina campus has trained over 1,000 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as Cybersecurity, End User Support and Salesforce Administrator. Our alumni have earned jobs at employers including Capgemini, Humana, and Wells Fargo.

Today, alongside community and employer partners, colleagues, alumni, and friends, Per Scholas North Carolina hosted its Five-Year Campus Celebration in Charlotte with remarks from Sherri Jones, Workforce & Career Development Manager, City of Charlotte; Leaton Harris, Vice President, Engagement and Inclusion, TEKsystems; and Kathleen Evans, Regional Director of External Affairs, AT&T. Jasmine Miller, Chief Program Officer, Per Scholas and Robin Nadeau, Regional Senior Vice President South, Per Scholas were also in attendance. A formal check presentation and reception followed. 

“I’m excited to celebrate this milestone not just for our team, but for the hundreds of North Carolinians who turned potential into thriving tech careers through Per Scholas, and I’m grateful to everyone who trusted us to be a part of their career journey. When we launched during the pandemic, our goal was to expand pathways to economic mobility for our neighbors, and five years later, I’m proud to say that we’ve helped generate more than $29 million in new wages in Charlotte and across North Carolina,” said Mike Terrell, Senior Managing Director, Per Scholas North Carolina. None of this would have been possible without our employer and philanthropic partners, and our incredible staff and alumni community—thank you for believing in this work. The next five years are about scaling and deepening our impact: continuing to expand our reach across North Carolina and sharpening our focus on in-demand skills so local companies can hire job-ready talent.” 

In addition to AT&T, Per Scholas North Carolina acknowledges the generous ongoing support of The BlackRock Foundation, Focusing Philanthropy, Truist Foundation, Leon Levine Foundation, Leonard G. Herring Foundation, Bank of America, City of Charlotte, Cloudera, Lenovo, Mecklenburg County, and TD Bank. Without our partners, our work would not be possible. 

“AT&T is proud to support Per Scholas and its mission to empower learners and prepare them to succeed in technology-based careers today and in the future. By providing access to digital skills training, career readiness instruction, and educational resources, we are equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive in a 21st-century world,” said Kathleen Evans, Regional Director of External Affairs, AT&T North Carolina. “Together with Per Scholas, we are connecting more North Carolinians and empowering the next generation of technology leaders.” 

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 North Carolina area. Notably, every dollar invested in Per Scholas yields an $8 net economic return. Per Scholas North Carolina is transforming lives and will now be shaping North Carolina’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 North Carolina, follow them on LinkedIn or Per Scholas North Carolina.

Contact: Rafael Gerena, Vice President of Communications & Policy, Per Scholas

communications@perscholas.org. 

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, generating over $35 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.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T  

At AT&T, our corporate responsibility work is dedicated to bridging the digital divide across the country. We are committed to providing people of all ages and from every community with the essential resources they need to thrive in the digital era. For generations, we have supported programs that impact millions of individuals nationwide, and since 2021, we have committed $5 billion to initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and improve access to high-speed internet. Our efforts particularly focus on uplifting underserved communities, including students, older adults, and those on tribal lands, ensuring everyone can participate in the digital world and benefit from its opportunities.

Per Scholas Marks 30 Years of Unlocking Tech Careers, Honors Leaders from Comcast and Ballmer Group at Anniversary Gala

Celebrating three decades of bridging the opportunity gap, the no-cost tech training provider will honor key partners at its New York City anniversary gala

NEW YORK, NY – September 25, 2025 – Per Scholas, a national tech training nonprofit, today announced it will host Empowering The Future: Celebrating 30 Years of Unlocking Potential, its 30th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday, October 21 at Guastavino’s in New York City. This milestone event will celebrate three decades of advancing economic mobility by providing access to high-quality, no-cost tech training to untapped talent. The gala will feature esteemed speakers and honor two key partners for their transformative impact:

• Dalila Wilson-Scott, Executive Vice President and Chief Impact & Inclusion Officer of Comcast Corporation and President of the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation, will be recognized for her transformative impact in corporate responsibility and for driving strategic initiatives that create opportunity in communities. This includes her leadership of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion initiative to connect people to the internet, provide digital opportunity, and build a future of Unlimited Possibilities.
• Ballmer Group, co-founded by Connie and Steve Ballmer, will be honored for its commitment to improving economic mobility for children and families. Through their partnership, Ballmer Group has been a catalyst for Per Scholas’ innovation and growth, enabling the development of immersive training models and the integration of cutting-edge AI and data center content into the curriculum. The award will be accepted by Terri Ludwig, Chief Executive Officer of Ballmer Group.

“Since its founding in the South Bronx in 1995, Per Scholas has been driven by a simple belief: that a thriving workforce begins with equitable access to opportunity,” Plinio Ayala, CEO of Per Scholas said. “This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on our impact, highlight the incredible stories of our learners, and honor the invaluable partnerships that shaped our journey, while looking ahead to an even brighter future.” 

The evening will feature a keynote address from Rashaun Williams, founder and CIO of Harbinger Sports Partners, limited partner of the NFL Atlanta Falcons, and guest Shark on ABC’s Shark Tank. Williams will be joined by esteemed guest speakers Ginni Rometty and Charles Phillips. Rometty is the former Chairman, President and CEO of IBM and Co-Chair of OneTen; she also serves on the boards of JPMorgan Chase, Cargill, and Memorial Sloan Kettering. Phillips is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Recognize and previously served as CEO of Infor, President of Oracle, and Managing Director at Morgan Stanley; he also serves on the boards of American Express, the Apollo Theater and more.

Event Details:

• What: Per Scholas 30th Anniversary Celebration
• When: October 21, 2025, 6:00 PM EST
• Where: Guastavino’s, 409 East 59th Street, NYC

Per Scholas’ 30th anniversary gala is presented by Comcast, with generous support from additional sponsors including Allstate, Amazon, EY, Guardian, TEKsystems, Apollo Global Management, Cognizant, Capgemini, CDW, Jean Hill and Larry Schultis, Dirk Manelski, Microsoft, Prudential, Ian Shrank and Alexandra W. Logue, S&P Global, Dana and Josh Lieberman, Lewis E. Miller, and PwC.

For more information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website.

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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.