Cisco Networking Academy student selected to “Dream Team”

HFCC student Garrett McCollum, a Cisco Networking Academy major, received selection as a member of the 'Dream Team' going to CiscoLive! in San Diego from June 10-14.

More than 80 students applied to be part of the 'Dream Team,' but only 10 earned selection. These 10 students will be joined by two instructor-mentors, according to Todd Browning, HFCC Cisco lead instructor. The final selections were made based on geographic representation, diversity, technical and professional skills, instructor recommendations, as well as impact outside the classroom.

'I was amazed. I thought I'd have a chance but didn’t get my hopes up. When I got the email stating I was selected, I was at work at the beginning of a long 12-hour day. I immediately called my girlfriend and my family. I'm super-excited about it. In fact, I'm still on cloud nine about it. I'm looking forward to it and think it will be an amazing experience,' said McCollum, of Plymouth.

McCollum, who currently works at GAB Telecom in Madison Heights, is tentatively scheduled to graduate in 2013 with his associate's degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) with a focus on network administration. He will take his exam to become a Certified Cisco Network Associate in June.

'I have every confidence that Garrett will represent himself, the College and Cisco well. He has a thirst for knowledge and passion for networking, and I believe he will greatly benefit from the CiscoLive! experience,' said Browning.

Based in San Jose, CA, Cisco Systems has certified HFCC as a Cisco Networking Academy. Through this innovative partnership, HFCC and Cisco prepare students for the demands and opportunities in the networking field. Students can prepare for the Cisco Certified Network Associate exam (CCNA) to become more marketable and more competitive.

'It's a true collaborative partnership between HFCC, Cisco, and employers,' said Browning.

Cisco training can lead to well-paying positions, including Network Support Specialists, Network Control Technicians, Hardware/Telecom Field Support Technicians, LAN/WAN Technicians, Network Systems Technicians. The Information Technology Association of America, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the American Electronics Association note that considerable growth and demand for these positions is anticipated over the next few years.

To learn more about HFCC’s Cisco Networking Academy, please visit http://www.hfcc.edu/cisco or call 313.845.6365.