A new report highlights the impact of The BlackRock Foundation’s partnership with Per Scholas North Carolina, revealing that 339 individuals have completed IT workforce training in less than a year. According to recent data, graduates are earning on average 2.6 times their income before joining the program, which is estimated to contribute $100 million in lifetime earnings uplift for participants.
The initiative follows The BlackRock Foundation’s $1 million commitment earlier this year to expand access to technology training across the state. The program aims to train 530 learners over two years and has already seen many graduates obtain industry-recognized credentials and secure jobs in fields such as Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Data Analytics.
The program serves a diverse group: 38% of graduates hold only a high school diploma and 42% are parents with children under 18. These outcomes are helping families achieve greater 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 graduate, Tim Kinsey from Western North Carolina, enrolled in an IT Support course while working several hourly jobs below living-wage thresholds. He has since graduated and secured a full-time Computer Support Technician role with Henderson County at nearly double his previous salary.
“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.”
In Western North Carolina—where entry-level wages typically range from $15–$17 per hour—the partnership with Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College has allowed Per Scholas Western NC to create new pathways into higher-wage tech roles. The site 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.”
BlackRock has invested over $100 billion in public companies based in North Carolina on behalf of its clients as part of its broader efforts within the state.
“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.”
At today’s graduation ceremony held in Uptown Charlotte, alumni from Charlotte and Western North Carolina were recognized alongside remarks from Carrie Schroen.
Per Scholas announced it will launch its third cohort this January as it continues efforts into 2026; those interested can register at https://perscholas.org/locations/northcarolina/.
Since launching locally in 2020, Per Scholas North Carolina has trained more than 1,000 learners who have gone on to work at employers like Capgemini, Humana, and Wells Fargo.
The BlackRock Foundation focuses on increasing economic security for low- and moderate-income households through partnerships aimed at building long-term wealth and resilience against financial shocks.
Per Scholas provides no-cost technology training nationwide; since its founding thirty years ago it has trained over 30,000 technologists who collectively have generated more than $2 billion in increased personal earnings.