Per Scholas Atlanta: Tuition-free training prepares job seekers for tech careers

Sherri Sims serves as the managing director of Per Scholas Atlanta, a nonprofit organization that provides tuition-free technical training to job seekers. The program focuses on high-demand fields such as IT support, cybersecurity, software engineering, and critical facilities. Sims oversees the curriculum and supports students as they transition into professional roles.

Sims previously worked as a consulting lead in the United States, most recently at IBM Global Business Services in the Chicago area. Before that, she held management positions in the technology sector. Her career path began in Chicago, where she noted that high-end IT careers were not commonly projected for people from her background. A conversation with someone earning $30,000 in computer science convinced her to pursue that field in college.

The nonprofit structure allows students to avoid the debt associated with traditional degrees. Sims explains that the organization aims to make IT accessible by removing the financial barrier. The curriculum is designed to prepare candidates for specific job roles rather than just general concepts. Students learn practical skills in areas like software support and data center operations.

Sims emphasizes the importance of cultural fit within the tech industry. She states that the program helps candidates understand how to present themselves in job interviews and workplace environments. The training includes preparation for technical assessments and behavioral questions. The goal is to ensure that graduates are ready to contribute immediately upon hiring.

The organization partners with local employers to place graduates in jobs. Sims notes that the feedback from hiring managers has been positive regarding the preparedness of the students. The program tracks the career outcomes of its alumni to measure success. Recent data shows a high placement rate for graduates who complete the full course of study.

Sims addresses common misconceptions about who can succeed in technology. She argues that the industry is open to candidates from diverse backgrounds, not just those with a computer science degree. The program includes mentorship and coaching to help students navigate the job search. Sims works directly with candidates to refine their resumes and interview techniques.

The nonprofit continues to expand its reach in the Atlanta area. Sims plans to increase the number of cohorts offered in the coming year. The organization is also looking to add more specialized tracks in response to employer demand. Funding for the program comes from a combination of grants and private donations.

Sims remains focused on the long-term career development of her students. She advises graduates to continue learning and adapting to new technologies. The organization maintains an alumni network to provide ongoing support. Sims says the next step is to deepen partnerships with regional tech companies to create more direct hiring pipelines.