Ernest Holmes

Ernest Holmes is a dynamic leader who’s making a big impact in the world of technology and education. Born and raised in Middlesex County, New Jersey, Ernest always had a passion for science and technology. He went to Morehouse College in Atlanta, where his interest in computer science grew even stronger. After graduating in 2019, he began working at Google as a software engineer and now also serves as a Technical Program Manager on the Education Equity team.

At Google, Ernest’s job is to make sure that students from all backgrounds have the chance to learn and work in technology. He helps design computer science programs that make it easier for faculty and students at schools that might not have a lot of resources. He uses his experience as a software engineer to shape these programs and ensure they are effective and inclusive.

Ernest is also the president and co-founder of CodeHouse, a nonprofit he started right after college. CodeHouse’s mission is to help students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, discover opportunities in the tech industry. They organize events where middle and high school students can meet people working in tech and learn about different careers. CodeHouse also offers scholarships and a special summer program for students who are about to start college. This program includes mentorship from industry professionals and a chance to learn more about computer science.

Since its start in 2019, CodeHouse has grown significantly. They’ve raised $4 million and supported 117 HBCU students with scholarships. Their tech exposure events have been huge successes, with one recent event held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, attracting 3,500 students and 50 tech companies.

Ernest’s journey wasn’t without challenges. During his internships at Google while he was in college, he noticed that there weren’t many people who looked like him in tech roles. This lack of diversity motivated him to create CodeHouse, to make tech careers more accessible to everyone. He wanted to show younger students that people like them can succeed in technology.

A former Software Engineer, Ernest wrote code that’s installed in the Google Home device, so his work is now sitting in millions of homes across the world. Not bad for a recent graduate.

Even with that success, Ernest’s proudest achievement is the success of CodeHouse. Despite being in his early 20s, he and his co-founders secured major funding and have had a real impact on many students’ lives. He believes in the importance of being true to yourself and following your passions, even when it’s hard. He encourages students to explore computer science early and to stick with what they love.

Ernest’s work shows that technology is not just about coding but also about solving problems and making a difference. He believes that for technology to be truly effective, it needs to be created by people from diverse backgrounds who understand different perspectives. He’s excited about the future and how Atlanta is growing as a major hub for technology, reflecting its rich culture and innovation.

Ernest Holmes is a great example of how passion, hard work, and a commitment to helping others can lead to amazing accomplishments. His journey from a student in New Jersey to a leader in tech and education is inspiring, and his efforts are helping to shape the future of technology for many young people.