Building a vibrant, inclusive tech community in Nashville, one project, one connection, one line of code at a time.
Who We Are
Nashville Tech Builders is a community of developers, engineers, and technology enthusiasts united by a shared passion for building and learning. Founded by local technologists who saw the need for a more connected and collaborative tech scene, we've grown into a diverse network of professionals at all career stages, from students writing their first lines of code to senior engineers leading teams at fortune 500 companies.
We're a group of builders who believe that technology can be a force for good, that learning never stops, and that the best way to grow is together. Our members come from all backgrounds and specialties: web developers, mobile engineers, DevOps practitioners, data scientists, UI/UX designers, and more, all committed to elevating Nashville's tech ecosystem.
What sets us apart is our focus on doing. We don't just talk about technology; we build it. We don't just network; we collaborate on real projects that make a difference. And most importantly, we believe in lifting each other up, sharing knowledge freely, and creating opportunities for everyone to succeed.
What We Do
Nashville Tech Builders is a community of developers, designers, and technologists working together to grow Nashville into a vibrant, inclusive tech hub. Through regular meetups, mentoring, and nonprofit collaborations, we bring people together to build meaningful projects, expand their skills, and give back to the community.
Whether you're launching your first side project or leading a team, NTB is where Nashville's builders connect, create, and make an impact—together. We create opportunities for hands-on learning, professional growth, and community impact through three core pillars: regular meetups, mentorship programs, and volunteer projects with local nonprofits.
How We Do It
Meetups
Nashville Tech Builders hosts biweekly meetups to bring our community together—whether you're hacking on a side project, experimenting with home labs, diving into automation, or exploring startup ideas. Our goal is to learn from and inspire each other through hands-on experience and shared knowledge.
Whether you're building something new, self-hosting services, or exploring cutting-edge tech, join us to demo projects, exchange ideas, get feedback, or just chat with like-minded technologists. All skill levels welcome!
Volunteering
Nashville is home to countless non-profits with missions that change lives—but many lack the technical resources to reach their full potential. Imagine how much further their impact could extend with the right software solutions.
At Nashville Tech Builders, we connect developers with non-profits in need. We meet with organizations to understand their challenges, scope projects, and form teams to bring their ideas to life. These projects offer junior developers hands-on experience wearing multiple hats while working alongside senior engineers they might not otherwise meet. For senior developers, it's a chance to mentor, gain project management experience, and develop leadership skills.
By giving our time and talent, we don't just build software—we build a stronger community.
Our Board Members
Meet the dedicated volunteers who lead Nashville Tech Builders and work tirelessly to create opportunities for our community to learn, grow, and make an impact.
Greg Billings
President
Greg brings over 15 years of experience as a software developer and leader. He began his career at HCA, where he advanced from an entry-level developer to architect, then to manager of a 13-person team. Greg brings strategic thinking, innovative ideas, and deep technical expertise. He's currently an Associate Director of Software Engineering at Veson Nautical, a software development company that provides software solutions for the maritime industry.
Preston Robbins
Vice President
Preston is a creative force with over a decade of experience in graphic design and video effects. A Nashville Software School graduate and part-time teaching assistant, Preston also founded Code Campfire, a peer-led initiative supporting NSS graduates through development projects, interview prep, and networking. He’s working with NTB to build a volunteer pipeline connecting graduates to nonprofit projects.
Draven Harrison
Secretary
Draven is an experienced IT leader with a background in help desk management, systems administration, and process improvement. He has worked across both corporate environments and managed service providers (MSPs), focusing on empowering technical teams and driving client success.
Jon Neely
Treasurer
Jon is Vice President at Neely Engineering & Contracting, LLC and CEO of 1140 Manufacturing, LLC. He also serves as Director of Operations & Outreach at Ben Neely Trauma Support, a nonprofit created in memory of his brother to provide counseling and mental health support for first responders. Jon brings deep experience in operations, manufacturing, and nonprofit management.
Louis Davis
Director
Louis brings over 18 years of experience in software development and strategic leadership. Previously at HCA, he led product innovation and technology strategy as Director of Enterprise Technology. He later joined Amazon as a Senior Technical Program Manager, where he has played a key role in delivering projects for the Just Walk Out team. Louis is now the CTO at Kadance. Louis is a visionary leader with a track record of turning ideas into impactful solutions.
Ryan Elisei
Director
Ryan has over 20 years of experience in technical leadership, and consulting. He now serves as a Sr. Solution Architect at NVIDIA, supporting AI consulting partners in their delivery efforts.
Lynn Samuelson
Director
Lynn is a career changer with a unique blend of drug-development research and software engineering experience. After nearly a decade in science, she transitioned into tech and spent three years building HIPAA-compliant clinical data tools while taking on multiple roles in a small-company environment. She also volunteers her technical and project skills at Code Campfire, supporting ongoing education for new bootcamp graduates.