ST. LOUIS, MO. — October 2026 — Per Scholas, a national workforce accelerator, has received a $10,000 grant from the Amazon Montgomery County Missouri Community Fund to expand outreach and access to no-cost Critical Infrastructure Technician training for residents of Montgomery County, Missouri.
As investment in digital infrastructure creates demand for skilled technicians, Per Scholas St. Louis is working to ensure local residents can access the skills and credentials needed to pursue careers supporting data centers and the technology systems that power the digital economy.
The grant will enable Per Scholas St. Louis to strengthen its presence in Montgomery County by cultivating partnerships with local workforce boards, Chambers of Commerce, academic institutions, libraries and prospective employers. Targeted social media campaigns, local advertising, physical signage, and engagement with community leaders will help raise awareness of training opportunities and connect prospective learners with pathways into the field.
Through its 15-week Data Center Technician course, Per Scholas St. Louis provides no-cost, industry-aligned technical training designed to prepare adults for in-demand roles in IT infrastructure. Learners develop practical skills in infrastructure management, data center operations, and AI-powered problem-solving, while receiving professional development, career coaching, and support preparing for industry certifications. Graduates can also access employer connections through Per Scholas' national employer network and local hiring partnerships.
"As investment in digital infrastructure grows across Missouri, we have an opportunity to ensure local residents can access the careers that growth creates," said Keisha Mabry Haymore, Managing Director of Per Scholas St. Louis. "This grant will help us build stronger connections in Montgomery County, reach more prospective learners, and expand access to no-cost training that prepares people for in-demand data center careers. We want local talent to be ready to help power the region's future."
During the grant period, Per Scholas aims to train 160 learners, achieve an 85% graduation rate and a 75% certification rate, and support 80% of graduates in securing employment within one year of graduation.
Since launching in July 2022, Per Scholas St. Louis has expanded access to technology training for adults across the St. Louis metropolitan area and beyond. This grant represents an opportunity to extend that reach into Montgomery County, helping local residents prepare for emerging career opportunities while supporting the workforce needs associated with the region's growing digital infrastructure.
By connecting workforce development with regional investment, Per Scholas St. Louis is working to ensure that local talent has a pathway to participate in the technology economy—and that employers can find skilled professionals ready to contribute.