Julio Bernard

Julio’s fascination with technology began on a Macintosh 128K, where he built his first game level and discovered a passion for creative problem-solving. That excitement quickly turned into hands-on learning when he accidentally bricked the computer after deleting critical system files. Determined to fix it, he dismantled the machine, put it back together, and successfully reinstalled the OS—all at age 11, without speaking English. That experience cemented his love for both hardware and software. A devoted fan of strategy and role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, Julio approaches both gaming and programming as puzzles to be optimized, always looking for creative ways to improve efficiency and solve complex problems. In 2014, he earned a Bachelor of Computer Science from SCSU, laying the groundwork for a career devoted to teaching and innovation.

From 2013 to 2016, Julio taught and recruited over 200 graduate and undergraduate apprentices through the Apprentice 100 program, guiding many toward roles at organizations like Alphabet, Datto, Square 9 Softworks, and Acuity Brands. He contributed to shaping Connecticut’s K–12 computer science curriculum through the Tech Talent Advisory Committee, helping bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world development. Many of his students have gone on to study computer science and related fields at universities across the country, including Ivy League schools and local colleges.

Following his work with A100 and curriculum development, Julio joined Pierrepont in 2017, where he teaches K–12 learners to refine their technical and problem-solving abilities. In 2020, he founded Software Acceleration Labs & Tutoring, offering instruction in 3D printing, computer assembly, Python, Java, full-stack web development, and AI fundamentals—equipping students with the modern skills needed in today’s tech landscape. Over the years, his tutoring reach has expanded beyond the U.S., with students across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, often through word of mouth as families relocate internationally.

Believing personal interest to be the driver of deep learning, Julio develops curricula around each student’s passions—whether it’s repairing classic consoles to explore hardware fundamentals, using Minecraft Redstone to delve into logic, or deploying home servers through Docker. He also integrates game-based learning through titles like Netburners, using hacking and automation mechanics to teach programming concepts in an engaging, real-world context. Fluent in Spanish and English, he enjoys exploring the syntax and etymology of languages like Portuguese, Japanese, and Latin, fascinated by the parallels between natural and programming languages. Through hands-on projects and a love of discovery, Julio helps learners of all ages develop the forward-thinking skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.