After working in the coal mines for 13 years, Mr. Leonard “Leo” Browning decided it was time to further his education. Having been interested in IT work since High School, he had pursued and received several different IT Certifications on his own. Working with computers came naturally to him, so when considering careers, the Information Technology field was an easy choice.
Mr. Browning had a friend who was attending the West Virginia Junior College Charleston campus. After speaking to him, he made an appointment to meet with an Admissions Representative. That single meeting was all it took. Leo quickly signed up for classes and began pursuing his Degree in Information Technology. By March of 2015, he graduated from West Virginia Junior College and began a job as a System Administrator for several local Medical Clinics.
After working in the field for a little over one year, Leo heard about a job opening at his former College. The position was for an Information Technology Instructor. He knew his current job had a flexible schedule which would permit him working both places. So, Mr. Browning wasted no time applying, and was quickly hired on as a Lead Instructor for the IT programs. When asked why he chose to come back and work at WVJC Leo replied, “I chose to work here because I know what the students are going through. There was nothing better than having an Instructor/Professor who wanted to see me succeed with a new career. So I told myself that I would do the same for EVERY ONE of my students.”
Mr. Browning’s favorite part of working for West Virginia Junior College is the interaction he has with the students. “Being a former graduate enables me to bond with every student who walks through my door.” He knows the struggles of being a college student while trying to provide for a family. He knows about the hours spent studying for exams, and the late night homework sessions. But, he also knows the reward of earning a degree and securing a career which you enjoy. He quotes a phrase that his grandmother often says, “It is never too late, and it is never too long.” These words certainly rang true in his mind as he was a student working towards his degree.
Although he does certainly love working with computers, Mr. Browning also enjoys fishing, reading, and spending time with his daughter. He says with a chuckle, “People take a look at me and probably wouldn’t imagine that I’ve read a TON of books!” In actuality, Leo is a huge horror fanatic and one of his favorite authors is Dean Koontz. He says the best mystery/thriller he has ever read is a Koontz novel called “Your Heart Belongs to Me”.
As for his long term goals, Mr. Leo Browning definitely wants to further his education. He is currently pursuing a degree in Internet Working Forensics, all the while balancing two jobs and a teenager! If you want to talk about time management, you should definitely get some pointers from Leo! He says another personal goal would be to open a restaurant/pub, but has no plans for that until he retires from teaching.
We are so glad that Leo Browning decided to join our team here at the West Virginia Junior College Charleston Campus. He is an excellent Instructor who is loved by staff and students alike. He has a great sense of humor and is always quick with a smile.
If you are interested in the Information Technology program, you should come meet Mr. Browning yourself! He would love to speak with you about his program, and could give you some real-world insight about the field. If you have any questions please contact us at 304-345-2820. We would love to help you reach your personal goals and get you into a career field that you love!