// JOIN
Start Your Ascent
GSM.elevate() is a free community. No accounts, no fees, no catch.
// YOUR FIRST CLASS
What to expect when you walk in.
Classes meet every Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 PM at the E.G. Fisher Library at 1289 Ingleside Avenue in Athens, Tennessee. Show up at the door. There is no signup, no membership, no fee. We started meeting on April 16, 2026, and we have run every Thursday since.
Bring a laptop if you have one. If you do not, that is fine. We have shared machines and most early sessions focus on concepts you can follow on paper. The room is set up for hands-on work, so dress comfortable and plan to sit at a table next to other people.
The first hour usually splits between a short topic, a hands-on exercise, and time to ask whatever is on your mind. Some weeks we run a class series, like the WordPress site build. Other weeks we open the floor for whatever the group wants to dig into. You can stop in for one week, every week, or somewhere in between.
Most people show up nervous the first night and leave with a project to try, a problem they finally understand, or at least a new person to ask the next question. That is the point.
// WHAT TO EXPECT
Here's What Happens Next
Welcome & Orientation
We'll help you find your way around the Discord and connect you with the right channels. No confusion, no guessing. Just a warm welcome and a clear starting point.
Find Your Track
Whether you're into networking, cybersecurity, cloud, or general IT, we'll help you find your starting point. Every climber takes a different route up the mountain.
Connect with Mentors
Our mentors are working professionals who volunteer their time. They've been where you are. They know the terrain, the pitfalls, and the shortcuts, and they're here to guide you.
Build & Showcase
Work on real projects, share your progress, and get feedback. Your portfolio grows with the community. By the time you're job-hunting, you'll have proof of what you can do.