“Don’t be afraid of starting over.” After working in healthcare for over a decade, the COVID lockdown allowed Kenetra Woods to reevaluate her career goals. With support from Per Scholas, she was able to gain the confidence to pursue a career in information technology. 

Kenetra Woods had worked as an inventory specialist for a large hospital organization for more than 12.5 years. She had always had an affinity for technology and was an in-house resource for her teammates whenever IT issues arose. However, she was deterred from making a career shift because she did not have a degree in technology. When the COVID lockdown began, Kenetra needed to stay home with her young children and used the time to evaluate her career goals. She knew that certification could be a route to a different job and looked into programs that could be a stepping stone to a career in IT. 

Through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Kenetra discovered MedCerts and gained an IT certificate, but did not feel prepared to take advanced level exams that would lead to a better paying job. 

Soon after, she learned about Per Scholas through Facebook advertising – but was nervous about enrolling in the program. With the encouragement of the Per Scholas team, Keneta found the confidence to join the inaugural cohort of Per Scholas in 2023.

Per Scholas is a 12 week program that focuses on career readiness. The curriculum is individualized to best suit students’ learning style and there is a concentration on networking and support to help each program participant achieve their goals. Although the program is a new partner for Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, Per Scholas has advanced economic equity for more than 25 years by offering evidence-based, tuition-free technology training and connecting graduates to high-growth careers in technology.

“My education at Per Scholas provided the foundation for me to take all these other certifications and make the leap into a new field, “ Kenetra said. 

Kenetra has received six certifications and is currently working for the Indiana Office of Technology (IOT) through their SEALS program. It is an “earn and learn” program that allows people to explore different skills and areas within IT.  She is hopeful that this year-long program will result in a permanent role with the IOT once it concludes in September.

Kenetra is grateful for the instruction and coaching she has received from the team at Per Scholas. She recently ran into her instructors, Tommy Arvo and Stephen Lewis, and Managing Director of the program, Theron Wilson, who told her that she would “have their support for life.” 

Her advice for anyone else looking to change their life? “Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself. It can seem overwhelming but find a way. It might be difficult, but once you leave graduation or a test center and you are certified, there is nothing better.” 

Interested in a career in technology? Learn more about how Per Scholas can unlock your potential by visiting perscholas.org/locations/indianapolis.