Per Scholas connects adults to free training for tech jobs

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — In February, Forbes ranked D.C. as the top hub for tech careers, but finding those jobs can be tricky.

With that in mind, Per Scholas has been trying to bridge the gap.

“We know that there is a need for technologists in this area. There are barriers to entry, which is the things that we try to solve for,” said Jessica Diaz Council, senior managing director for the national capital region.

Per Scholas connects adults 18 and above with jobs in help desk support, end-user desk support, software engineering and more.

“It’s 100% tuition free. We are funded by a variety of partners,” said Council. “You’re in the training, up to 18 weeks, depending on the track you choose.”

Participants who complete the free program usually make at least $21 an hour.

“Eighty-five percent of our learners are people of color, more than a third of them identify as women and have a high school diploma as their highest educational credential,” Council said. “We know the trajectory these tech careers can have and the impact it could have on not only one individual but that entire household that they might be a part of.”

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