Per Scholas Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Per Scholas has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, people, and program delivery.

Driven by a commitment to economic mobility, Per Scholas provides tuition-free technology training to unemployed or underemployed adults, empowering them for careers as IT professionals and fostering significant community impact.

Leadership Roles at Per Scholas

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Plinio Ayala
  • Chief Financial Officer - Pam Kingpetcharat
  • President - Caitlyn Brazill
  • Chief of Staff - Karen Bulthuis
  • Chief People Officer - Montreece Smith
  • Plinio Ayala - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Plinio Ayala, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Per Scholas, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Ayala guides the non-profit's mission to provide tuition-free technology training, ensuring access for unemployed and underemployed adults seeking IT careers. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for program expansion and impact across all operational regions. Ayala oversees the development and implementation of key initiatives that advance Per Scholas's goal of fostering economic mobility through tech education. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the organization's core values and drives performance metrics related to student success and career placement. Plinio Ayala is responsible for cultivating partnerships and securing resources necessary to sustain and grow the organization's vital services.

    Pam Kingpetcharat - Chief Financial Officer

    Pam Kingpetcharat, the Chief Financial Officer at Per Scholas, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Kingpetcharat oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the organization's tuition-free technology training programs. This executive ensures the financial health and sustainability of Per Scholas, enabling its mission to serve unemployed and underemployed adults. The Chief Financial Officer directs financial reporting, compliance, and risk management, providing critical insights for strategic decision-making. Kingpetcharat works closely with other leaders to optimize financial performance and secure funding streams that support program growth and operational efficiency. Pam Kingpetcharat's expertise is vital in maintaining the integrity of financial systems and maximizing the impact of donor contributions and grants.

    Caitlyn Brazill - President

    Caitlyn Brazill, the President at Per Scholas, drives the strategic direction and operational success of the organization's program delivery. Brazill focuses on expanding access to tuition-free technology training for unemployed and underemployed adults, ensuring high-quality educational outcomes. This leadership position involves overseeing curriculum development, instructional quality, and student support services across various campuses. The President works to enhance the effectiveness of IT career pathways, connecting graduates with meaningful employment opportunities. Brazill collaborates with the executive team to advance Per Scholas's mission and amplify its impact in communities nationwide. Caitlyn Brazill's dedication is central to empowering individuals with the skills needed for successful careers in the technology sector.
    Caitlyn Brazill

    Karen Bulthuis - Chief of Staff

    Karen Bulthuis, the Chief of Staff at Per Scholas, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. Bulthuis facilitates the execution of key organizational initiatives, ensuring alignment across departments and driving project completion. This role involves managing cross-functional projects, optimizing internal processes, and enhancing operational efficiency to support the delivery of tuition-free tech training. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, coordinating communication and information flow between different leadership levels and teams. Bulthuis supports the President & Chief Executive Officer in strategic planning and implementation, ensuring Per Scholas effectively serves its mission of empowering adults for IT careers. Karen Bulthuis's contributions are essential for streamlining operations and advancing the organization's strategic objectives.

    Montreece Smith - Chief People Officer

    Montreece Smith, the Chief People Officer at Per Scholas, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies. Smith is responsible for cultivating a positive and productive organizational culture that supports Per Scholas's mission of providing tech education. This executive oversees recruitment, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring the attraction and retention of skilled staff. The Chief People Officer drives initiatives focused on employee engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where team members can thrive. Smith collaborates with leadership to align people strategies with organizational goals, supporting the effective delivery of tuition-free training programs. Montreece Smith's leadership is critical in building a strong, mission-driven workforce dedicated to empowering adults for IT careers.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Per Scholas Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Per Scholas?
    Per Scholas is led by Plinio Ayala (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Pam Kingpetcharat (Chief Financial Officer) and Caitlyn Brazill (President).
    Who is part of Per Scholas’s executive team?
    The executive team of Per Scholas includes leaders such as Plinio Ayala (President & Chief Executive Officer), Pam Kingpetcharat (Chief Financial Officer), Caitlyn Brazill (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Per Scholas have?
    Per Scholas has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Per Scholas’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Per Scholas includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief People Officer.