Marc Brown '18: Building Foundations in Technology, Leadership, and Service

 

When Marc Brown enrolled at SUNY Corning Community College, he was looking for more than an education—he wanted direction, community, and practical experience that could shape his future. For the Corning native and Army veteran, CCC offered the perfect balance of affordability, hands-on learning, and personal connection.

Marc's path to higher education began with eight years of service in the United States Army as a Combat Engineer and Team Leader, stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, and Grafenwoehr, Germany. His military experience instilled a deep sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment, values that would guide his transition from service member to student and beyond.

"CCC wasn't just a steppingstone to a four-year degree," Marc reflects. "It was a place where I could build real skills and relationships that would shape my career."

Drawn to the College's Information Technology program, Marc quickly found himself thriving in an environment that emphasized learning by doing. Small class sizes, supportive faculty, and well-equipped IT labs allowed him to apply classroom concepts directly to real-world scenarios. Whether collaborating on projects, troubleshooting campus systems, or working in user support, he discovered that CCC's approach combined technical training with teamwork and genuine mentorship.

The faculty made all the difference. Marc appreciated how approachable his instructors were and how invested they were in helping students succeed. These connections helped him build both technical expertise and the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. The hands-on experiences, from IT labs to campus projects to collaborative assignments, created a foundation that extended far beyond the classroom.

After earning his AAS in Information Technology in 2018, Marc continued his education at SUNY Alfred State, completing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Technology Management. The transition proved seamless, thanks to the solid academic grounding he'd received at CCC.

Today, Marc is back where it all began, serving as an IT Technical Assistant in User Services at SUNY Corning Community College. In this role, he manages computer lab re-imaging, provides A/V support, troubleshoots campus-wide systems, and helps lead improvements in IT operations. His combined background in technology and business allows him to approach challenges with both technical precision and strategic insight, while his understanding of project management and customer service shapes how he supports the campus community.

Marc's commitment to service extends well beyond his professional responsibilities. As former president of the CCC Veterans Association, he helped build community among student veterans navigating their educational journeys. He currently serves as treasurer of the Corning Fish & Game Club and is an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor—roles that allow him to share his expertise while staying connected to the outdoor traditions of the region. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and exploring new cafés and restaurants throughout the area.

Looking back on his journey, Marc offers straightforward advice for prospective students: CCC is an excellent place to start your college journey. The smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and practical learning environment build a strong foundation for both transfer success and career readiness. He encourages students to get involved on campus through internships, student jobs, or volunteering because those experiences connect classroom learning to real-world applications.

Most importantly, he emphasizes not to underestimate the power of a community college start. CCC gave him both the confidence and the academic grounding to move forward successfully into a four-year program and a professional IT career.

From combat engineer to campus IT professional, Marc Brown exemplifies how service, curiosity, and connection can create lasting impact, proving that meaningful careers often begin right here at Corning Community College.