Per Scholas & Splunk: Expanding Access to Cybersecurity Careers
As cyber threats grow increasingly advanced and data breaches dominate headlines, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been higher. Unfortunately, access to the training necessary to enter this field remains out of reach for many individuals.
Per Scholas aims to change that narrative. The organization delivers intensive, tuition-free training in technology fields, connecting adult learners from low- to moderate-income communities across the United States with career opportunities. With a mission to broaden access to tech careers, Per Scholas aligns naturally with Splunk, which is committed to equipping individuals with essential data skills and tools.
The partnership between Splunk and Per Scholas dates back to 2018, when Splunk began supporting tech training for underserved talent pools in New York City. In 2021, the partnership deepened with the introduction of unrestricted grant funding, enabling Per Scholas to expand rapidly. The program has grown from 3,500 learners and alumni across 16 campuses to a projected 7,500 across 24 campuses by 2025. This investment has paid off—Splunk now employs four Per Scholas graduates in full-time cybersecurity roles. Moreover, Splunk’s involvement has helped attract major investments from other donors, such as the $20 million grant from MacKenzie Scott in 2023.
Cybersecurity Training That Changes Lives
Per Scholas offers more than just technical instruction. Learners gain hands-on experience, career development resources, and access to job interviews with leading companies. In addition to tech training, around 20% of the curriculum is focused on professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and navigating the job market. Over ten weeks, students build career strategies, develop personal brands, practice interviews, and learn to negotiate job offers.
One of the program’s standout offerings is the 15-week Cybersecurity Analyst course, which includes training on Splunk tools and prepares students for the Splunk Core User certification. Graduates go on to fill in-demand roles like cybersecurity associate and support specialist. Continued learning is also encouraged through the Career Accelerator program, where alumni can earn both Core and Power User certifications.
Per Scholas is scaling to meet rising demand. In the past three years, participation has surged and campuses now span 18 states. Within a year of graduation, 80% of alumni secure jobs paying over $21 an hour, generating an estimated $148 million in annual earnings across the learner community.
The impact extends beyond individual success. According to nonpartisan research group MDRC, every dollar invested in Per Scholas produces an $8 return to the local economy—through higher tax contributions, greater consumer spending, and decreased reliance on public assistance.
“Our collaboration with Splunk has empowered our students with in-demand skills in cybersecurity and data analytics. This partnership opens doors to life-changing career paths and supports the growth of a diverse and inclusive tech workforce. We look forward to expanding these programs and continuing to make a lasting difference with partners like Splunk.” - Plinio Ayala, President and CEO, Per Scholas
Building Pathways into Cybersecurity Careers
Per Scholas’ Tech Talent Solutions team works closely with employers nationwide to match graduates with job openings. Among the success stories is Farquleet Fajar, now a Customer Trust Analyst at Splunk. Originally from Pakistan, Farquleet developed an interest in tech during high school and pursued cybersecurity through Per Scholas.
“The course gave us great practical experience and insight into different areas of cybersecurity,” she explains. “The instructors were incredibly supportive and went the extra mile to ensure we were learning and engaged.”
After her training, she interned with Splunk before being hired full-time. She continues to build her skills and is now working toward advanced cybersecurity certifications and a master’s degree.
Farquleet’s journey is just one example of how Per Scholas empowers learners to transform their futures. With ongoing support and a growing network, the organization is set to create thousands more success stories in the years ahead.
Click here to know ways you can support this vital work
Per Scholas aims to change that narrative. The organization delivers intensive, tuition-free training in technology fields, connecting adult learners from low- to moderate-income communities across the United States with career opportunities. With a mission to broaden access to tech careers, Per Scholas aligns naturally with Splunk, which is committed to equipping individuals with essential data skills and tools.
The partnership between Splunk and Per Scholas dates back to 2018, when Splunk began supporting tech training for underserved talent pools in New York City. In 2021, the partnership deepened with the introduction of unrestricted grant funding, enabling Per Scholas to expand rapidly. The program has grown from 3,500 learners and alumni across 16 campuses to a projected 7,500 across 24 campuses by 2025. This investment has paid off—Splunk now employs four Per Scholas graduates in full-time cybersecurity roles. Moreover, Splunk’s involvement has helped attract major investments from other donors, such as the $20 million grant from MacKenzie Scott in 2023.
Cybersecurity Training That Changes Lives
Per Scholas offers more than just technical instruction. Learners gain hands-on experience, career development resources, and access to job interviews with leading companies. In addition to tech training, around 20% of the curriculum is focused on professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and navigating the job market. Over ten weeks, students build career strategies, develop personal brands, practice interviews, and learn to negotiate job offers.
One of the program’s standout offerings is the 15-week Cybersecurity Analyst course, which includes training on Splunk tools and prepares students for the Splunk Core User certification. Graduates go on to fill in-demand roles like cybersecurity associate and support specialist. Continued learning is also encouraged through the Career Accelerator program, where alumni can earn both Core and Power User certifications.
Per Scholas is scaling to meet rising demand. In the past three years, participation has surged and campuses now span 18 states. Within a year of graduation, 80% of alumni secure jobs paying over $21 an hour, generating an estimated $148 million in annual earnings across the learner community.
The impact extends beyond individual success. According to nonpartisan research group MDRC, every dollar invested in Per Scholas produces an $8 return to the local economy—through higher tax contributions, greater consumer spending, and decreased reliance on public assistance.
“Our collaboration with Splunk has empowered our students with in-demand skills in cybersecurity and data analytics. This partnership opens doors to life-changing career paths and supports the growth of a diverse and inclusive tech workforce. We look forward to expanding these programs and continuing to make a lasting difference with partners like Splunk.” - Plinio Ayala, President and CEO, Per Scholas
Building Pathways into Cybersecurity Careers
Per Scholas’ Tech Talent Solutions team works closely with employers nationwide to match graduates with job openings. Among the success stories is Farquleet Fajar, now a Customer Trust Analyst at Splunk. Originally from Pakistan, Farquleet developed an interest in tech during high school and pursued cybersecurity through Per Scholas.
“The course gave us great practical experience and insight into different areas of cybersecurity,” she explains. “The instructors were incredibly supportive and went the extra mile to ensure we were learning and engaged.”
After her training, she interned with Splunk before being hired full-time. She continues to build her skills and is now working toward advanced cybersecurity certifications and a master’s degree.
Farquleet’s journey is just one example of how Per Scholas empowers learners to transform their futures. With ongoing support and a growing network, the organization is set to create thousands more success stories in the years ahead.
Click here to know ways you can support this vital work
Companies