Why BOT Is Needed: Mark Bennet on Closing Orlando's Tech Access Gap
If you've ever wondered whether a career in tech is really within reach, then you’re in the right place. Building Our Tech (BOT) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower individuals to learn, build, and thrive in tech. So no matter your background, zip code, or bank account, BOT offers an accessible pathway for you.
Today, our team member Mark Bennet shares his experience with BOT and why our organization is needed.
Meet Mark:
Mark Bennet is a Lead Web Developer at the University of Central Florida and the Technology Lead at Building Our Tech (BOT). Mark moved from West Virginia and joined UCF. New to the area, he wanted a place to meet people in the Orlando tech scene. That’s where his story with BOT began. Mark watched BOT grow from social meetups to an organization built to help the tech scene and its community thrive.
“I felt that BOT served an underserved community, not only people of color but also people who are looking to transition to get into tech.”
Why Access to Tech Matters
Mark's point of view reflects what we hear again and again from our Orlando and Central Florida community members: tech careers are more accessible than people think when the right training, mentorship, and support system are in place.
That's the mission behind everything we offer:
Free and low-cost tech workshops for beginners across Central Florida
Immersive cohort programs providing training for in-demand tech skills
Community events and networking connecting Orlando's growing tech talent pool
Mentorship and career support to help you scale once you've landed that first role
Tech startup education & support to help you build what matters
Whether you're in Orlando, Winter Park, Kissimmee, Sanford, or anywhere across Florida, there's a path in tech waiting for you.
“If I could describe BOT in one word, it’ll probably be needed. BOT as an organization has helped propel a lot of people…”
“If I could describe BOT in one word, it’ll probably be needed. BOT as an organization has helped propel a lot of people…”
Watch Mark Bennet's Full Story
Reading about Mark's journey is one thing; hearing it in their own words is another.
🎥 Watch the full impact story testimonial here
Ready to Write Your Own Impact Story?
BOT offers free and affordable tech workshops, cohorts, and community events throughout Orlando and Central Florida that are built for people at every stage, from total beginners to career-changers ready to scale.
