Get to Know HFC: Todd Browning enjoys seeing students succeed in Cisco careers

HFC Cisco Networking Academy faculty member Todd Browning comes from a family of teachers – his grandmother, his mother, his aunt – so teaching was a natural fit for him.

“I began my teaching career in 1995,” said Browning. “I enjoy being in the classroom.”

The Cisco Networking Academy at HFC is a one-year, four-course Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certificate program that teaches students to install and configure Cisco routers and switches in local and wide area networks, perform basic troubleshooting, and improve network performance and security. It also prepares students for some of the most highly valued certifications within the IT industry, including:

• Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

“I was teaching high school computer classes and a coworker suggested I investigate the Cisco Networking Academy, so I did,” said Browning. “I fell in love with Cisco, and the rest is history!”

Proud to be an Army veteran

Born in Wyandotte, Browning is the youngest of two sons. He lives in Wyandotte with Dana, his wife of 30 years. They have an adult daughter who is also a teacher, making her a fourth-generation educator.

Browning is an alumnus of Roosevelt High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business education from Eastern Michigan University and his master’s degree in education from Wayne State University. He also earned his K-12 teaching certificate from EMU and is a certified Cisco instructor.

From 1986-94, Browning served in the U.S. Army, graduating from the Tennessee Military Academy. He was stationed at:

• Ft. Campbell, KY
• Ft. Dix, NJ
• Ft. Leonard Wood, MO
• Ft. McClellan

Browning was in the military police during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He was deployed to the port of Charlestown, SC.

“Thankfully, we never left the port,” recalled Browning.

Browning’s final rank was captain before being honorably discharged.

“My beautiful bride did not like deployments and being separated from each other, which is why I didn’t re-up,” recalled Browning. “I consider it an honor and a privilege to have been able to serve my country. I’m proud of my service.”

Proud to serve Wyandotte

Browning has served his community in addition to serving his country. From 2001-13, Browning was a member of the Wyandotte City Council. He served three terms before he was term-limited.

In 2013, he was elected to the Office of the Wyandotte City Treasurer. He is currently in his fourth term, which expires in 2029.

“I live in Wyandotte, I used to teach in Wyandotte, I love Wyandotte. When I started teaching at HFC, I felt a little disconnected from Wyandotte, and the opportunity to serve allowed me to re-connect,” said Browning. “I really enjoy working with all the other elected officials to make Wyandotte a better place to live!”

Teaching at HFC is still exciting after 26 years

Browning joined the faculty of HFC (then Henry Ford Community College) in 1999 after teaching at Roosevelt for four years.

“Todd demonstrates strong knowledge and leadership of what his students need to be equipped with to face a challenging job market. He inspires and motivates his students and fosters a positive work environment,” said BEPD Associate Dean for Business and Economics, Computer Information Systems, Cisco, Cybersecurity, and Culinary Arts + Hospitality Management Dr. Naser Abumustafa.

Browning has established a partnership between the HFC Cisco Networking Academy and KLA Laboratories, Inc. in Dearborn. Many of his students have interned at KLA and moved on to full-time positions there, designing and integrating Cisco solutions for some of the largest companies in the world. More than 30 HFC alumni work at KLA.

KLA President and CEO Matthew O’Bryan is an HFC alumnus, who works closely with Browning. He called Browning “one of a kind.”

“I would say that Todd is one of the most genuine people I’ve met, personally or professionally,” said O’Bryan. “He cares very deeply for his students and their success, not just through their coursework in the Cisco Networking Academy but also throughout their careers. Many of his students would refer to him as both a mentor and a friend.”

For Browning, the students are the best part of his job.

“I absolutely love working with the students!” said Browning. “I really enjoy my students and the lifelong friendships I have made over the years. I have even had the privilege to teach children of former students!” he said. “I love HFC and I love teaching. I love seeing students succeed and continuing their education and landing exciting career opportunities. I know I started at the College in 1999, but it still feels new and exciting for me – I love it here!”