Join us for a chat with our new CTO Dave Browning. Proud of crafting massive networks, embracing challenges, and eyeing wireless innovations, he shares insights, inspirations, and his vision for Move Up Internet.
Let’s get into it!
To kick things off, could you tell us a bit about your background and how you ended up in the world of technology?
My old man was the IT Manager for a major Australian bank, and from about 10 years old I had an old desktop PC with MS-DOS that I used to tinker with. In high school, I was suspended for “hacking” into a database with all the personal details of the students. I got the feeling though that the IT guys were just a bit personally hurt that a 16-year-old got around their “security”. From there, the careers lady at school cottoned on that I was alright at this computer stuff and got me a traineeship at the local council. It’s there that I fell in love with networking. I became passionate about carrier networks and began building many for various providers.
Throughout your career, what are some of the projects or accomplishments you’re most proud of?
I can’t dive too deeply into the specifics of projects, however, simply building these massive networks and then standing back and looking at the finished product is something I get a kick out of.
What about the biggest challenges you’ve encountered, and how did you overcome them?
I’ve been involved in significant outages (not my fault, obviously 🙂), and I find that I become the “cool head” in these situations. Though challenging, I find it rewarding once you get through something like that.
Can you tell us some of the latest trends or innovations that you find most exciting right now?
In the wireless space, there are 2 big things. NLOS and Terragraph. Tarana networks are doing some fantastic things in the NLOS space, being able to hit subscribers through trees and get impressive speeds. In the Terragraph space, all the major vendors are releasing unique products to help service the ever-growing bandwidth demands in medium and high-density commercial and residential areas without needing to go and trench fibre.
Who or what inspires you in the tech world, and how has it influenced your approach to your new role as a CTO?
I keep tabs on what big Bevan Slattery is up to; I think he is one of the smartest minds in the Australian telco space, and anything he bootstraps seems to turn to gold (in both the financial and technical sense).
For those looking to follow in your footsteps, what advice would you give to aspiring tech professionals?
Get in on the ground floor and put in the hours, even if it may feel like there is no instant reward. Take calculated risks, and don’t be afraid to speak your mind.
What does a typical day in the life of our new CTO look like?
Look, I am not sure yet! But probably taking our CEO’s wild and whacky ideas and either making them come to light or telling him he’s a crazy man.
Beyond your role, what are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I love going bush in my caravan with my 2 young boys and close group of mates (wifey will only camp in a hotel with 5 stars on it 😂). I don’t mind a good hard session in the gym, and love spending time outside in the garden.
What’s your vision for the future of Move Up Internet, and how will it continue to evolve and impact our company and its customers?
Being able to offer insane speeds at insane prices without relying on the likes of NBN.
Some words of wisdom from you for whoever made it this far…
Work hard, play harder!