We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Todd Richard Christenson.
Todd was not only an early supporter of the Micro Nano Technology Education Center (MNT-EC), but one of the very first industry leaders to truly believe in our mission—and in the potential of our students. At a time when we were just getting started, Todd stepped forward, opened his doors, and invited our students into his company. That simple act created opportunities, confidence, and inspiration that continue to ripple through our program today.
Many of us will always remember those early visits—especially Todd’s humor and warmth. He welcomed our students not just professionally, but personally… even sharing pizza with them and jokingly calling them “wafers.” It was a small moment, but one that perfectly captured who he was: generous, approachable, and genuinely invested in the next generation.
Todd was also a respected leader in our community, recognized with a HI-TEC Industry Award and serving at the very beginning of our Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT). His leadership helped shape how we engage industry partners nationwide.
What makes truly successful education and workforce programs is not just the resources, curriculum, or structure—it is the trust we build with one another and the respect we hold for the work we each do. Todd understood this deeply. He believed in people, in partnership, and in the idea that when we support each other, we create opportunities far greater than any one program alone.
Todd’s impact on MNT-EC and the broader technician workforce community cannot be overstated. He helped set the tone for what true industry partnership should look like—engaged, supportive, and centered on students.
On behalf of MNT-EC and personally, we extend our deepest gratitude for his friendship, his belief in our work, and his lasting contributions. Todd will be remembered not only for what he did, but for how he made people feel—valued, welcomed, and inspired.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
— Jared M. Ashcroft & the MNT-EC Community
You can read more about him here where the family has posted details about the Celebration of Life on April 18, 2026.