CSEdWeek Spotlight Series: Jaimron Monroe, Code@TACC Alumni

    None

    In 2023, the Education & Outreach (E&O) team at the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) completed its eighth year of hosting Code@TACC, the center’s signature summer residential program for high school students. Since its inception in 2015, Code@TACC has served more than 600 students from diverse backgrounds with the majority identifying as African American/Black and Hispanic/Latinx. Hundreds of these campers have gone on to pursue postsecondary education in STEM fields.

    Jaimron Monroe is an undergraduate student majoring in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Cybersecurity at The University of Houston-Victoria.

    We caught up with the camp alumnus to hear about his experience at Code@TACC, the program’s impact, and to learn about his career aspirations.

    Jaimron Monroe is an undergraduate student majoring in Digital Game and Simulation at The University of Houston-Victoria. Credit: Photo provided by Jaimron Monroe

    E&O/TACC: What inspired you to attend a Code@TACC camp?

    Jaimron Monroe: I explored Code@TACC because of my interest in technology. Before attending the camp, I was uncertain about a career in tech. My teacher suggested that I apply because she saw a spark in me for STEM-related subjects and believed that attending Code@TACC would be a great opportunity to nurture that interest. My time at camp was a pivotal step in my journey toward a tech-related career.

    E&O/TACC: What are some of your favorite camp memories/experiences?

    Jaimron Monroe: I loved exploring Austin. Our camp went bowling in the UT Austin Student Union and visited the downtown library. Spending time in the dorms and living the college life made our time at camp all the more memorable.

    E&O/TACC: What are your future career plans?

    Jaimron Monroe: In my junior year of college, I switched my major to Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Cybersecurity. This was a conscious step toward aligning my academic pursuits with my passion for technology. Subsequently, I secured an internship at a healthcare company working in the IT department as a security intern. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the realm of cybersecurity and solidified my resolve to pursue a career in technology. After graduating in 2024, I aspire to bring my acquired skills and knowledge to a forward-thinking company.

    Jaimron Monroe (left), Justice Warren (center), and Donovan Ruble (right) work on their final presentation during Code@TACC Cybersecurity camp in 2019. Credit: Photo provided

    E&O/TACC: Why should students attend Code@TACC camps?

    Jaimron Monroe: Code@TACC is more than just gaining computer science (CS) knowledge and experiencing new things in life. These camps welcome you to a world of possibilities. I had no clue what I was getting into and wasn’t even sure I wanted to attend. Afterward, I was hooked and kept going back for more, even serving as a counselor.

    E&O/TACC: Thank you for your time and contributions to STEM, Mr. Monroe.