Hau Nguyen leads the Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS) Department at Grossmont College with visionary leadership, commitment to student success, and a deep dedication to academic excellence. A dynamic educator, mentor, and program innovator, he continues to shape the future of Grossmont’s technology programs—and the lives of countless students. 

Born in Saigon, Vietnam, Hau came to the United States as a refugee at a young age, accompanied by his parents and older sister. His two older brothers and another sister were left behind when the road was abruptly cut off during their escape from the war. It would take nearly a decade of determination and perseverance before his parents were able to reunite the family—an experience that profoundly shaped Hau’s values of resilience, hard work, and sacrifice. 

Upon arriving in America, Hau’s father worked as a janitor cleaning toilets while pursuing a master’s degree in computer science—a powerful example of humility and grit that instilled in Hau a lifelong respect for the transformative power of education. Growing up in Arizona, Hau woke early every weekend to help his mother at a swap meet, often sacrificing the typical joys of childhood to support his family. Motivated by the promise of a better future, he graduated from high school in just three years, guided by the belief that education was the key to opportunity. 

He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Arizona. After nearly a decade in the tech industry, Hau returned to academia to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Arizona State University, further expanding his expertise in leadership and business. He also completed doctoral coursework in higher education and computer engineering, reflecting his belief in lifelong learning. During his time in industry, he nurtured a growing passion for teaching, working part-time as a college instructor during evenings and weekends. 

Over his 25+ year career in the high-tech sector, Hau held senior engineering and management roles across a wide range of fields, including satellite communications, unmanned vehicles, cybersecurity, networking, big data, database systems, data centers, and software systems. Despite building a successful and lucrative career, he began to question his place in the corporate world. Observing that many companies prioritized profits over people, Hau longed for a more meaningful path—one where he could help others grow and learn. 

That search for purpose led him to his true calling: education and teaching. Leaving the private sector behind, he transitioned to teaching full-time, where he has since made a lasting impact as a professor, department chair, and academic leader. For more than two decades, he has taught Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Management Information Systems at both community colleges and universities. His industry background brings real-world relevance to his teaching, bridging academic theory with practical application. 

At Grossmont College, Hau has been the driving force behind the modernization and expansion of the CSIS Department. He has led the development of workforce-aligned courses, certificates, and degree programs in Cybersecurity and the rapidly growing field of Artificial Intelligence. He also played a pivotal role in initiating the process for the department to be designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency. 

In the classroom, Hau is known for his engaging, student-centered approach. He regularly invites students to present in front of their peers, helping them build critical soft skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and professionalism. His teaching blends technical rigor with personal mentorship, preparing students not only for successful transfer to four-year universities but also for rewarding careers in today’s competitive tech industry. 

Under his leadership, Grossmont students have thrived in national competitions, including the SoCal Cyber Cup Challenge and the National Cyber League. In a notable achievement, his students earned first place among all Southern California community colleges in the SoCal Cyber Cup, securing a $5,500 grand prize and trophy, and reinforcing Grossmont’s reputation as a leader in cybersecurity education. 

Beyond the classroom, Hau fosters a strong sense of community, leadership, and opportunity. He founded the Computer Science and Cybersecurity Organization, giving students a platform to collaborate, explore emerging technologies, and develop leadership skills. 

He frequently speaks at local high schools, reentry programs, career fairs, and STEM outreach events, encouraging students from all backgrounds—especially those historically underrepresented—to pursue careers in computer science and related fields. He also plays a vital role in regional workforce initiatives, including the San Diego Border Region Talent Pipeline Verified Program, which aligns academic offerings with in-demand industry skills. Through this program, he led the successful certification of all CSIS degree programs for paid summer internships, significantly expanding students’ access to real-world experience and career pathways. 

Within the Grossmont College community, Hau is a catalyst for faculty collaboration and innovation. He organizes monthly off-campus social activities to build collegial relationships and regularly hosts cross-campus meetings to share best practices and enhance curriculum development across institutions. 

As a Distinguished Faculty Honoree, Hau Nguyen exemplifies the values of integrity, innovation, perseverance, and student empowerment. His journey—from a refugee child with humble beginnings to a highly respected educator and academic leader—is a powerful reminder of what’s possible through education, service, and a deep sense of purpose. 

He often tells his students, “If you find a career that you would do for free, that is your passion.” For Hau Nguyen, teaching is that passion—and through his work, he continues to find joy and fulfillment by investing in the success of his students—one classroom, one life, and one future at a time. 

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