Built by a Developer, for Developers

After 30 years in the software development industry and 10 years of building the learning experience at Nashville Software School, Steve Brownlee founded Stepping Stone Labs as the next evolution in learning and growth for software developers.

Steve Brownlee, Head Coach of Stepping Stone Labs

Launched by Steve Brownlee

After 30 years in the software development industry, and 10 years of building the learning experience at Nashville Software School, Steve Brownlee founded Stepping Stone Labs as the next evolution in learning and growth for software developers.

This program was born out of a desire to empower people to grow in their career as software developers. Before Stepping Stone Labs, the only structured learning environments were for beginners. University, internships, or bootcamps were your options to break into the field.

Steve is a highly skilled coach, mentor, technologist, and educator. This unique combination of skills allows him to cut through potential biases and identify the core skills and competencies that people need to succeed and grow in their software careers.

Veteran of Technology and Software since 1993
Technology Leadership since 2001
Technology Mentoring since 2007

The Journey

1993
Technology & Software Development

Began a career in technology and software development

2001
Technology Leadership

Transitioned into leading technology teams

2007
Technology Mentoring

Began mentoring the next generation of developers

2015
Technology Education

Joined Nashville Software School as lead instructor

2019
30+ Cohorts Completed

10 years at NSS, coaching 30+ cohorts of students

2024
Stepping Stone Labs Founded

The next evolution in learning and growth for developers

Our Philosophy

🧠

Competency Over Knowledge

We focus on building practical competencies through hands-on experience, not just delivering information through lectures and videos.

🤝

Cohort-Based Learning

Learning alongside motivated peers creates accountability, builds networks, and makes the journey more rewarding and effective.

🎯

Mentored, Not Lectured

An experienced mentor available in every session provides guidance, support, and real-time feedback to accelerate your growth.

Ready to accelerate your career?

Schedule a free 30-minute discovery call. No pressure, no pitch — just an honest conversation.

Book Your Free Call