Embracing the Challenge: How Elliott Sisk Is Breaking Into Tech His Way
For Elliott Sisk, the path to a tech career wasn't always clear. Growing up in the Bay Area, he describes himself as a former "troublemaker" who dropped out of college and struggled to find his direction. But today, he's well on his way to becoming a software engineer, thanks to his determination and the support of Hack the Hood's innovative Drive program.
Elliott's journey began with teaching himself basic JavaScript, but it was his sister Danielle who pointed him toward Hack the Hood. What caught his attention wasn't just the technical training—it was the organization's commitment to social impact.
"What attracted me to Hack the Hood was their focus on the societal impact of coding," he explains. "They really emphasize the importance of marginalized groups to be voices in the tech community. If we're not, we will lack representation and the technology of the future will display that."
“They really emphasize the importance of marginalized groups to be voices in the tech community. If we’re not, we will lack representation and the technology of the future will display that.”
A Proven Path to Success
After completing Hack the Hood's Summer 2024 Hustle program, Elliott enrolled in Hack the Hood’s Drive program, a year-long initiative in partnership with Laney College that combines intensive technical education with comprehensive support. The Drive program has already demonstrated strong results in its previous cohorts, with 50% of participants completing their Data Science Certificate of Achievement within just one year, and 60% completing more than 20 college units. The program has seen students excel not only in their coursework but also secure valuable opportunities—from campus work-study positions to internships at prestigious institutions like Berkeley Lawrence Lab.
Students in the Drive program learn Python programming, data analytics, and database management—but perhaps more importantly, they gain access to a supportive community and a structured pathway into tech. For Elliott, this support system has been transformative.
"The highlight has really been meeting mentors and being a recipient of the care and knowledge that they are willing to show me," he shares. "If you decide to lean on the resources in this program, they're really serious about getting you prepared for a career in tech."
When Support Meets Determination
Elliott is now working toward his data science certificate, with plans to pursue an AA degree from Laney College as well. To those considering following in his footsteps, Elliott offers wise advice: "Confusion is not a sign of incompetence; it's a sign that you're trying to do something difficult." He encourages future participants to embrace the challenges, knowing that support is always available through Hack the Hood.
Elliott's journey exemplifies the transformative power of believing in oneself—and having others believe in you too. As he finds his way in tech, his message to others is clear: the tech industry needs your voice, your perspective, and your determination.
"I believe I can be part of it now," he says, "and it's a real thing that I'm working toward." Through programs like Drive, Hack the Hood is ensuring that belief becomes reality for a new generation of tech leaders who will shape not just code, but the very future of technology itself.
For more information about the Drive: Laney program and other Hack the Hood initiatives, visit our Programs page to learn how you can be part of this transformative journey.
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