Reid Russom: Championing Inclusive Tech Education for the Underserved

Introduction

In the evolving landscape of technology and education, individuals who merge both fields with purpose and passion stand out. One such name is Reid Russom—an educator, curriculum specialist, and nonprofit leader working at the intersection of equity and innovation. Currently serving as Curriculum & Instruction Manager at Code the Dream, Russom’s journey is a powerful testament to what happens when compassion meets expertise. His work empowers underrepresented communities with coding skills and life-changing opportunities in the tech industry.

Early Life and Education

Roots of a Visionary

Reid Russom’s early years were grounded in a strong commitment to service and learning. Raised in a community that valued education, he naturally gravitated toward mentorship, literacy, and social equity from a young age. These values would shape the trajectory of his future.

Academic Foundation

Pursuing higher education with drive and focus, Russom completed his graduate studies with a specialization in fields that emphasized leadership, communication, and data-driven program evaluation. These academic experiences prepared him for the multifaceted roles he would later take on—combining curriculum development, data analysis, and inclusive education.

Professional Career

Entry into Education

Reid Russom’s professional journey began in traditional classrooms. As a Middle School English Teacher, he focused on student engagement and literacy, particularly in STEM-focused environments. These early experiences taught him the complexities of education in underserved areas and the need for more systemic change.

Code the Dream and the Nonprofit Mission

Reid Russom joined Code the Dream in 2019 as a Volunteer and Data Coordinator, through his involvement with the Johnson Service Corps. It was a mission-aligned opportunity where he began supporting coding education for immigrants, women, and people of color who were often excluded from tech careers.

Over the years, Russom advanced to the position of Curriculum & Instruction Manager, where he now leads strategic efforts in program evaluation, curriculum design, and volunteer coordination. His leadership plays a central role in expanding CTD’s reach and effectiveness.

Professional Roles & Affiliations

• Code the Dream

• Curriculum & Instruction Manager

• Volunteer and Data Coordinator

• Johnson Service Corps

• Nonprofit Leadership

• STEM Education

• Equity in Technology

Advocacy and Social Impact

Champion for Diversity in Tech

A key pillar of Russom’s career is his unwavering dedication to diversity in tech. He actively designs programs that help bridge the digital divide, especially for underrepresented communities. Whether it’s mentoring students or working with volunteers, he integrates social justice, digital equity, and inclusive learning practices into every aspect of his work.

Community Building and Mentorship

Russom’s impact extends beyond the classroom and nonprofit boardrooms. He is an advocate for community building, organizing initiatives that connect learners with professional mentors. These programs not only teach technical skills but also foster emotional resilience and real-world problem-solving.

Social Impact & Advocacy

• Diversity in Tech

• Social Justice

• Community Building

• Mentorship Programs

• Underrepresented Communities

• Inclusive Education

• Digital Equity

Public Writing and Thought Leadership

Storytelling with Purpose

Reid Russom is also a prolific writer and public speaker, using his voice to shed light on the success stories emerging from Code the Dream. As a CTD Blog Contributor, he celebrates both the volunteers and learners making a difference, often highlighting narratives that would otherwise go untold.

His content merges emotion with insight, making educational content creation both human and impactful.

Writing & Public Engagement

• CTD Blog Contributor

• Volunteer Spotlights

• Storytelling in Education

• Public Speaking

• Educational Content Creation

Personal Life and Interests

A Supportive Personal Journey

Outside his career, Reid is deeply grounded in his personal life. He is married to Gabi Jackson, whom he met during a pivotal summer. Their relationship, founded on mutual respect and shared values, reflects the same depth of empathy Russom brings to his professional work.

Beyond the Office

When he’s not managing programs or writing about equity in tech, Reid enjoys hiking, cooking, and reading. These personal pursuits offer him a healthy balance, supporting his mental health advocacy efforts and reinforcing his belief in holistic well-being.

Personal Life & Interests

• Married to Gabi Jackson

• Outdoor Enthusiast

• Cooking

• Reading

• Hiking

• Mental Health Advocacy

FAQs

1. Who is Reid Russom?

Reid Russom is an American educator and nonprofit leader best known for his work with Code the Dream, where he serves as Curriculum & Instruction Manager.

2. What does Code the Dream do?

Code the Dream is a nonprofit that provides free coding education and paid apprenticeships to people from underrepresented backgrounds in tech.

3. What is Reid Russom’s educational background?

He holds a graduate degree and has a background in education, curriculum development, and program evaluation.

4. Is Reid Russom married?

Yes, he is married to Gabi Jackson. They share a strong personal bond rooted in shared values and service-oriented work.

5. What are his interests outside of work?

Reid enjoys hiking, cooking, reading, and advocating for mental health awareness.

Conclusion

Reid Russom is more than just a nonprofit leader—he is a force for change. Through his work at Code the Dream, he continues to break down barriers in tech education and expand opportunities for those historically excluded from the industry. Whether through curriculum innovation, volunteer empowerment, or personal storytelling, Russom is shaping a more inclusive and equitable future—one learner at a time.

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