LaunchCode’s mission is to break down barriers to tech careers, and Aleesha Dawson’s story beautifully showcases the power of determination, community, and opportunity. After seven years as part of the LaunchCode family, Aleesha reflects on her journey and how it shaped her career.
Here's what she had to share:
What initially inspired you to join LaunchCode?
When I decided to leave graduate school, I could not for the life of me find a job. No one wants to hire someone who says they are good at problem-solving without the tech skills. So, I applied to LaunchCode.
Can you share a memorable moment from your LaunchCode journey?
The most memorable moment in my seven-year journey was when I was awarded the Stellar Alumni Award this year! It was incredible to be recognized for my contributions to the organization that changed my life.
"LaunchCode taught me perseverance and humility—both essential for my role today as a Customer Success Engineer at GitLab. As a learner, I had to navigate the balance between struggling through a challenge and knowing when to ask for help. I still apply this daily when helping developers and platform engineers with software development best practices.
Sometimes, I don’t have all the answers and need to tell customers that I’ll find the solution. This perseverance and commitment to problem-solving are skills I honed during LaunchCode and have carried into my career."
What advice would you give to someone considering a LaunchCode course?
If you want to change your life, do it. It will be hard, but it will be worth it.
Looking back, what do you wish you knew before starting the program?
Honestly, I don’t think there’s much I wish I’d known. At the start, I was skeptical and kept waiting for someone to say, “Gotcha! You owe us a bajillion dollars.” But it never happened. I wish I had saved myself the stress and accepted that there really was no catch.
How has LaunchCode influenced your career goals or your approach to learning?
Before LaunchCode, I wanted to teach, and that dream is still alive, just in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve taught for LaunchCode, volunteered to teach coding to incarcerated individuals nearing release, and will soon teach coding to high school students.
While I love my job, my passion for giving back to the community grew directly from LaunchCode’s mission.
What surprised you the most about LaunchCode’s program or the tech industry?
How everyone has a voice and can succeed. Success in tech is really about discipline and perseverance. Before you know it, you’re a year into your career, and people are asking you about new technologies that didn’t even exist when you started!
What do you think sets LaunchCode apart from other educational programs or bootcamps?
LaunchCode’s mission truly sets it apart. The focus on breaking down barriers of racial inequality and fostering inclusive workplace cultures made me feel proud to be part of the program. Knowing the staff believed in me boosted my confidence when it was time to enter the job market.
How did the LaunchCode community support you during your training?
In countless ways! Leaning on classmates and LaunchCode employees during tough times kept me going. I’m still close friends with classmates and staff from seven years ago. That kind of connection and support is rare and invaluable.
Aleesha’s story is a testament to LaunchCode’s impact on individuals and their communities. Her perseverance and dedication illustrate how LaunchCode can open doors to life-changing opportunities. Ready to start your journey? Apply now at launchcode.org/learn
