July 9, 2026

By Reese Allen

Andrew Nichols is 10 months into his position as a computer networking technology instructor on East Mississippi Community College’s Scooba campus.

Nichols is responsible for teaching courses in the Computer Networking Technology program, where students learn the skills needed to build, troubleshoot, secure and manage computer networks. His teaching areas include information technology foundations, data communications, network planning and design, virtualization, wireless security, Windows security, server administration and computer forensics.

A major part of his role is helping students connect classroom concepts to real-world information technology skills.

“One of the things I enjoy most about teaching computer networking is seeing students gain confidence,” Nichols said. “Technology can seem intimidating at first, but once they begin troubleshooting problems and realizing they can make everything work, their confidence grows quickly.”

Before coming to EMCC, Nichols taught seventh and eighth-grade computer science for three years. Prior to becoming a classroom teacher, he spent almost a decade working in the education sector of information technology, mainly in the role of IT Facilitator.

Nichols said those experiences helped shape his approach to teaching, especially when it comes to meeting students where they are.

“Being an adoptive father has also made me a better teacher,” Nichols said. “It has reminded me that every student has a story, every student matters and every student deserves someone who believes in their potential. Students may come from different backgrounds, learn in different ways or need different kinds of support, but they are all equally important.”

Nichols is a three-time graduate of Mississippi State University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in information technology in 2008. In May 2010, he earned his Master of Business Administration with co-concentrations in information technology and accounting. In December 2024, he earned his Master of Arts in Teaching.

Nichols is currently working toward a Doctor of Technology. He is also a Cisco certified network instructor.

Nichols said his goal is to make his classroom practical, encouraging and hands-on.

“I want students to leave my classes not only understanding the material but believing they are capable of working in the IT field,” Nichols said.