Los Angeles, C.A., March 13, 2025 — Since launching in March 2023, the Per Scholas Los Angeles campus has trained over 300 learners, equipping them with critical tech skills such as IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering.

Today, alongside community and employer partners, colleagues, learners, and friends, Per Scholas Los Angeles hosted a grand opening celebration featuring the graduation ceremony of its first in-person cohort, followed by a ribbon-cutting dedication with remarks from the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Los Angeles Economic & Workforce Development Department, and an open house reception.

“Technology is ever-evolving, and so too must we. This grand opening isn’t just about a new space; it’s about opening doors to new possibilities, new skills, and new futures for those who seek to thrive in the digital age,” said Patrice Madu, Per Scholas Los Angeles Managing Director.

Per Scholas Los Angeles acknowledges the generous support of Focusing Philanthropy, The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, the Foundation for California Community Colleges, The James Irvine Foundation, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., Comcast NBCUniversal, Joseph Drown Foundation, Michael J. Connell Foundation, Microsoft, Amazon, the City of Los Angeles Economic & Workforce Development Department, and Match Group.

With a proven model that includes both in-person and remote learning hubs, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the state. Notably, every dollar invested in Per Scholas yields an $8 net economic return. Per Scholas Los Angeles is transforming lives and shaping Los Angeles’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 Los Angeles, follow them on LinkedIn or visit their page.

About Per Scholas

Per Scholas is proud to celebrate 30 years of fostering economic mobility by giving individuals from diverse backgrounds access to high-growth tech careers. 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. By 2030, we aim to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually—building on three decades of impact. 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. 85%+ of our learners are people of color, 40% are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone, driving transformative economic change.

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

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Per Scholas Appoints New Chief Operating Officer to

Accelerate Mission-Driven Initiatives

BRONX, N.Y. (January, 31, 2025) — National nonprofit Per Scholas has appointed a new Chief Operating Officer to their National Leadership Team. Tamara Johnson, previously Per Scholas Chief of Staff, continues her career with the nonprofit in this new role with a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and operational management, ready to further the organization’s mission of building a more equitable workforce.

In this role, Tamara is responsible for the successful execution of our strategic plan, working in close partnership and collaboration with Per Scholas’ multiple funding and employer partners.

Tamara has built a career in both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Before Per Scholas, Tamara spent the past 15 years in the workforce development field, including nearly 12 years as a senior leader at leading nonprofits such as Year Up and Genesys Works. Before Year Up, she built collaborative client relationships in relationship management and business development roles in for-profit organizations.

“I am honored to move into this role at Per Scholas as Chief Operating Officer,” said Tamara Johnson. “This organization is at the forefront of creating meaningful opportunities for individuals to thrive in the tech workforce. I look forward to working with the incredible team at Per Scholas to expand our reach and deepen our impact across the nation.”

Per Scholas has a longstanding reputation for delivering industry-recognized training and connecting talented individuals to high-growth careers. Appointing Tamara Johnson as Chief Operating Officer underscores Per Scholas’ dedication to scaling its efforts and ensuring that technology career opportunities are accessible to all.

“Tamara’s extensive experience and passion for workforce equity make her an ideal leader for this critical role,” said Per Scholas President and CEO Plinio Ayala. “As we continue to scale our programs and serve even more learners, her vision and expertise will be instrumental in driving operational excellence and advancing our mission.”

For more information about Per Scholas and its programs, please visit www.perscholas.org.

About Per Scholas: 

Per Scholas is proud to celebrate 30 years of fostering economic mobility by giving individuals from diverse backgrounds access to high-growth tech careers. 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. By 2030, we aim to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually—building on three decades of impact. 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. 85%+ of our learners are people of color, 40% are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone, driving transformative economic change.

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

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Per Scholas Buffalo Celebrates Inaugural Graduating Cohort

Ushering in the next generation of skilled tech talent, Per Scholas is driving Economic Mobility in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y., Jan. 24, 2025 — After opening its doors to the city of Buffalo, NY, in August 2024, Per Scholas, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic mobility through rigorous and no-cost technology training, today proudly celebrates the graduation of its first Buffalo-based cohort of aspiring tech professionals.

Per Scholas Buffalo’s inaugural class completed 13 weeks of intensive training in IT Support, earning the Google IT Support Professional Certificate and the CompTIA A+ certification. These industry-recognized credentials equip graduates with in-demand skills to secure high-paying, sustainable careers in Buffalo’s rapidly growing technology sector.

“The hard work and determination of this graduating class is a testament to the caliber of untapped talent skills-trained professionals have to offer,” Jeremy Besch, Per Scholas Buffalo Managing Director said. “Buffalo is a burgeoning tech hub and is in need of these candidates.”

In addition to Per Scholas President & CEO Plinio Ayala, the graduating class is honored by esteemed ceremony speakers including Bonnie Kane Lockwood who is representing the Office of Kathy C. Hochul the 57th Governor of the State of New York, Empire State Development and New York Power Authority; Morgan Foss, Buffalo Bills Foundation Program Manager at the NFL Buffalo Bills Foundation; and Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes, Majority Leader of the New York State Assembly.

Thanks to generous support from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, Empire State Development, New York Power Authority, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Fund, Amazon, Citizens, Larkin Development, and National Football League—via an Inspire Change grant, Per Scholas has established its third New York campus and expanded its national footprint of more than 20+ campuses. With a proven model that includes in-person and remote learning hubs, Per Scholas continues to unlock opportunities for individuals, strengthen communities, and drive business success across the state. Notably, every dollar invested in Per Scholas yields an $8 net economic return.

Per Scholas Buffalo learners also benefit from financial support options, such as the Zero Percent Loan, designed to ease personal expenses during training. This innovative program charges no interest, late fees, or origination fees. Repayment begins only after graduation and once learners secure a job earning a minimum of $40,000 annually.

By equipping graduates with in-demand tech skills, Per Scholas Buffalo is transforming lives and helping to shape Buffalo’s future as a thriving technology hub. To learn more about Per Scholas Buffalo, follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook, or visit their page.

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About Per Scholas

Per Scholas is proud to celebrate 30 years of fostering economic mobility by giving individuals from diverse backgrounds access to high-growth tech careers. 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. By 2030, we aim to train and upskill 25,000 technologists annually—building on three decades of impact. 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. 85%+ of our learners are people of color, 40% are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. We are building a future where successful careers in tech are accessible to everyone, driving transformative economic change.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rafael Gerena

[email protected] | 689-239-3127

Social Finance Partners with Per Scholas to Offer Living Expense Loans to Learners

The Zero Percent Loan program helps participants to cover living expenses with support from Social Finance, a grantee of the Google Career Certificates Fund

Boston, MA and New York, NY (December 16, 2024)—Social Finance, a leader in innovative workforce investments, has partnered with Per Scholas on a pilot program that offers living expense loans to participants in Per Scholas’ three-month, no-cost IT Support training program. The Zero Percent Loan (ZPL) program helps participants to cover living expenses while they complete the Google IT Support Certificate—training for in-demand, well-paying jobs with pathways to economic mobility—allowing them to focus on gaining the skills needed for these careers.

There are many good jobs that need to be filled, but they often require a degree or credential. These training programs are out of reach for many prospective participants who must decide between pursuing training and working so that they can cover their living expenses.

The Per Scholas ZPL is managed by Social Finance, a grant recipient of the $100 million Google Career Certificates Fund. The program supported by the Google Career Certificates Fund aims to drive $1 billion in aggregate wage gains for more than 20,000 people while providing wraparound support services such as professional coaching, interview prep, and job placement assistance. With the ZPL, learners receive $3,000 over the course of the three-month long Per Scholas program. The loans are flexible, allowing learners to use them according to their needs for expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, or childcare. Learners only repay the ZPL via no-interest, low monthly payments if they secure jobs making above a minimum salary. Repayments received are reinvested back into the program to allow more learners to benefit.

Per Scholas piloted the loan across 21 IT support cohorts at eight campuses—Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, North Carolina, and Philadelphia—and aims to expand the program with support from additional partners.

“The Zero Percent Loan program is a game-changer in Per Scholas’ mission to drive economic mobility and build a diverse, inclusive tech workforce,” said Plinio Ayala, president and CEO of Per Scholas. “By tackling the often-overlooked challenge of living expenses during training, this initiative reduces financial barriers that have long kept talented individuals from reaching their full potential. With the support of Social Finance, Google.org, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, and the Charles Koch Foundation, we are not just empowering learners to gain critical skills for in-demand careers—we are creating a model for lasting economic equity and reshaping the future of opportunity in the tech industry.”

Early results from the pilot demonstrate the impact of the ZPL, with participants achieving an 83% graduation rate compared to 70% for non-participants, a statistically significant improvement. Detailed in a newly released report by Per Scholas, the pilot ran from June 2023 to March 2024, with nearly 60% of all eligible learners applying for the ZPL.

“We designed this program, made possible through the Google Career Certificates Fund, to support learners as they prepare for jobs that lead to economic mobility. We are encouraged by the early results of the Zero Percent Loan pilot with Per Scholas, which show greater persistence among learners using the loan,” said Jake Edwards, VP of Impact Investments at Social Finance. “We are excited to apply learnings from the partnership, and other training providers supported by the Fund, to build the knowledge base of what works to help more learners upskill at scale.”

The program is already helping learners improve their job prospects and earning potential. Wanting to switch careers, Tori Haynes—who had been working as a security guard and DJ—was encouraged by a Per Scholas alum to consider Per Scholas training to pursue her interest in a career in tech. Tori enrolled in Per Scholas’ IT Support course in Baltimore. The ZPL provided Tori with the financial stability to focus on the program, helping her gain technical and professional skills. Tori now works as an IT Support Specialist at a real estate company and is exploring opportunities in emerging technologies, including AI.

“When I found out I got the loan, it was such a relief—it was one less thing to worry about. It allowed me to concentrate fully on my studies and gave me a cushion so I didn’t have to work constantly to make ends meet,” Tori said. “Some people literally can’t pursue education because they can’t afford it. Doing this program for free and with the extra financial help? That’s a miracle for some people.”

The Google Career Certificates were developed by Google employees to support skilling in high-demand fields within 3-6 months—with no degree or experience required. The Google Career Certificates Fund began supporting learners with training providers including inaugural training providers Merit America and Year Up in 2022. In addition to training and wraparound support, learners are also connected to an employer consortium of over 150 companies that consider Google Career Certificates graduates.

To learn more about Per Scholas’ IT Support training program and how you can enroll, visit perscholas.org.

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About Social Finance

Social Finance (SF Advisors, LLC) is a national nonprofit and registered investment advisor. We work with the public, private, and social sectors to create partnerships and investments that measurably improve lives. Since our founding in 2011, we have mobilized more than $400 million in new investments designed to help people and communities realize improved outcomes in workforce and economic mobility, health, and housing. Learn more at socialfinance.org.

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, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Per Scholas Expands Tech Training to Buffalo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Per Scholas

For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has been on a mission to drive equity and opportunity in the ever-advancing technology landscape by unlocking the untapped potential of individuals, uplifting communities, and meeting the needs of employers through rigorous tech training. By teaming up with dynamic employer partners, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we’re forging inclusive tech talent pipelines, fulfilling an ever-increasing need for skilled talent. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and counting, Per Scholas offers no-cost training programs in the most sought-after tech skills, spanning Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, 25,000+ individuals have been trained through Per Scholas, propelling their professional trajectories into high-growth tech careers with salaries three times higher than their pre-training earnings. At Per Scholas, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re in our DNA. 85+ percent of our learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

About Empire State Development

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

About Amazon

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

About The NFL Foundation

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

About Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

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

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Per Scholas Expands Tech Training to Kansas City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Per Scholas

For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has been on a mission to drive equity and opportunity in the ever-advancing technology landscape by unlocking the untapped potential of individuals, uplifting communities, and meeting the needs of employers through rigorous tech training. By teaming up with dynamic employer partners, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we’re forging inclusive tech talent pipelines, fulfilling an ever-increasing need for skilled talent. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and counting, Per Scholas offers no-cost training programs in the most sought-after tech skills, spanning Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, 25,000+ individuals have been trained through Per Scholas, propelling their professional trajectories into high-growth tech careers with salaries three times higher than their pre-training earnings. At Per Scholas, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re in our DNA. 85+ percent of our learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Comcast NBCUniversal

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

About Cortex

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

About NFL Inspire Change

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

About Great Jobs KC

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

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On Juneteenth, Michael Terrell, Per Scholas Senior Managing Director, and Edwin Harris II, Per Scholas Manager, Business Solutions, connected with NAVEX to discuss Per Scholas’ impact, history, mission, and commitment to diversity in tech. Thy discussed Per Scholas’ 30-year history, our goal to create pathways for individuals to enter the technology industry and secure high-wage, high-growth careers, and our commitment to addressing the diversity gap in the tech industry by ensuring that the workforce reflects the diverse communities it serves. 

“Juneteenth for me is a celebration,” Edwin Harris II said. “It’s particularly impactful within the African American culture, but a national celebration of freedom that comes with that. So, in context to Per Scholas, given the fact that we work with a lot of minority organizers, populations, I think it’s just another holiday to remember some of the struggles, but also take a chance to celebrate the overcoming of said struggles within our society and economy, ensuring history and traditions are never lost.”

Read the full article here.

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. 

Per Scholas Welcomes Two National Board Members

Leaders from Telecommunications and Technology Contribute to Transform America’s Tech Workforce

BRONX, N.Y. (March 28, 2024) – Today, leading national tech training nonprofit advancing economic equity Per Scholas welcomed two National Board Members. 

New National Per Scholas Board Members include:

Kristen Chard, Head of Commerce, Google. Kristen joined Google in 2007 and now serves as a Head of Commerce in Google’s Mid Market sales division, GCS. Outside of work, Kristen focuses her energy on partnering with organizations to help underserved populations.

Rick Rioboli, Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Comcast Cable. Rick serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Comcast Cable. Rick is an advocate for ongoing education and career development both at Comcast and across the Philadelphia tech community

“We are honored to welcome Kristen and Rick to Per Scholas’ National Board, where their dedication, expertise, and enthusiasm will greatly contribute to our mission of unlocking potential,” stated Plinio Ayala, President & CEO of Per Scholas. “Our National Board Members exemplify our vision to further change the face of technology to achieve a strong economy for all.”

To learn more about Per Scholas’s work and our National Board, visit PerScholas.org. 

About Per Scholas

For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has been on a mission to drive equity and opportunity in the ever-advancing technology landscape by unlocking the untapped potential of individuals, uplifting communities, and meeting the needs of employers through rigorous tech training. By teaming up with dynamic employer partners, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we’re forging inclusive tech talent pipelines, fulfilling an ever-increasing need for skilled talent. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and counting, Per Scholas offers no-cost training programs in the most sought-after tech skills, spanning Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, 25,000+ individuals have been trained through Per Scholas, propelling their professional trajectories into high-growth tech careers with salaries three times higher than their pre-training earnings. At Per Scholas, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging aren’t just buzzwords—they’re in our DNA. 85+ percent of our learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half hold a high school diploma as their highest educational credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

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