Infrastructure and Communication

What is INC Administration?

INC (Infrastructure and Communication) Administration involves managing both physical and virtual components that support the communication needs of an organization. This includes hardware and software management, network administration, data management, telecommunication, and ensuring security and compliance measures are in place.

Team Lead

Our team lead during this internship was Khalif Ross, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in communication management and network administration at the City of Augusta.

Duration on the Team

We were part of the INC Administration team for 20 hours over 3 days, focusing specifically on database administration tasks.

Activities and Responsibilities

During our time with the INC Administration team, our activities included:

• Phone System Configuration: Using Cisco Unified Communications Manager and unity, we configured new phones for deployment across various city locations. This involved locating each phone's MAC address, applying configurations using existing templates with customized settings, and ensuring seamless integration with the city's communication infrastructure.
• On-Site Installation and Troubleshooting: We traveled to different sites within the city to install newly configured phones and troubleshoot any issues encountered during the deployment process, gaining practical experience in real-world network implementation.
• Data Disposal and Security: We learned proper data disposal procedures by physically destroying outdated hard drives to prevent any potential exposure of sensitive city data.

Previous Experience with INC

Before joining the team, our exposure to INC Administration was limited as many of us were unfamiliar with the term and its responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

Our experience with the INC Administration team provided us with valuable insights and skills:

• Technical Proficiency: We gained hands-on experience with Cisco Unified Communications Manager, enhancing our understanding of communication management systems and network backend processes.
• Learning from Seasoned Professionals: Interacting with experienced professionals who have served the City of Augusta for over a decade allowed us to learn industry best practices and efficient methods for completing tasks.
• Industry Standards: We learned and adhered to industry standards and protocols in communication and network administration, preparing us for future roles where such knowledge is crucial.

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Client Support Specialist

What is CSS?

The Client Support Specialist (CSS) department within IT is responsible for delivering and supporting IT products and services within an organization. Their primary objective is to ensure successful customer service experiences, which can involve troubleshooting computer issues and providing technical support.

Duration on the Team

We spent a total of 20 hours over 3 days working closely with the CSS team. This intensive period allowed us to learn from specialists like Glen, Ladon, and Will, gaining valuable insights into client support practices.

Team Lead

Our team lead during this internship was Glen Hall, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in client support and IT service delivery.

Activities and Responsibilities

During our internship with the CSS department, we engaged in various hands-on tasks:

• Computer Assembly and Troubleshooting: We had the opportunity to disassemble and reassemble a computer, gaining insight into its components such as the hard drive, CPU (Central Processing Unit), motherboard, RAM, cooling fan, and more. This practical exercise not only deepened our understanding of computer hardware but also challenged us to troubleshoot and ensure proper functionality after reassembly.
• Operating System Installation: Following the computer assembly, we installed the Windows operating system. This involved uploading the operating system from a CD onto the department's server, providing us with exposure to essential software installation procedures in a professional IT environment.

Previous Experience with CSS

Prior to joining the CSS team, most of us had some surface-level experience in customer service roles. However, our internship provided us with a comprehensive introduction to the complexities of client support within an IT framework.

Key Takeaways

Our experience with the CSS department was enlightening and impactful:

• Technical Proficiency: We acquired practical skills in computer hardware assembly, troubleshooting, and operating system installation, which are fundamental in client support roles.
• Customer Service Skills: Working directly with real-world clients and solving their IT issues broadened our understanding of customer service dynamics and problem-solving strategies.
• Professional Growth: This internship opportunity allowed us to collaborate with experienced professionals and expand our knowledge of IT service delivery, setting a solid foundation for future career endeavors in IT support.

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Geographic Information System

What is GIS?

GIS (Geographic Information System) integrates computer hardware and software to store, manage, analyze, edit, output, and visualize geographic data. It's a powerful tool used across various industries to make informed decisions based on spatial analysis..

Team Lead

Our mentor and team lead throughout the internship was GIS specialist Michael Moller. Through our time with Michael, we gained insights into practical applications of GIS in real-world scenarios as well as utilization of maps to obtain data in historical settings

Duration on the Team

During our internship, we dedicated a total of 20 hours over 3 days to the GIS division. Despite the brief period, our time was intensive and packed with valuable learning experiences.

Activities and Responsibilities

• Software Exploration: We received hands-on training with industry-standard software such as ArcGIS Pro, Google Maps, LIDAR, Google Earth Pro, and Augusta Maps.
• Practical Application: We observed and participated in using ArcGIS Pro in conjunction with Augusta Maps to fulfill specific data requests, enhancing our understanding of spatial data management and analysis.

Projects

During our internship with the GIS department, we engaged in two significant projects that enriched our understanding and skills

Building Entrance Survey Project

• Data Collection Project: We meticulously surveyed and logged the characteristics of each building's entrances within the municipal block. This included measuring distances from parking lots, identifying disability-accessible entrances, noting public or private access, and documenting whether each entrance served as an entry, exit, or both. We then visually compiled our findings onto Google Earth pro, and presented our data along with our conclusions to both the GIS department head and our team lead. Our detailed findings were crucial in providing actionable insights to the GIS department.

Vacation Log Project

• Utilizing Google Earth Pro: On a team with three interns, we used Google Earth Pro to familiarize ourselves with its functionalities. Using lines, polygons, and points, we tracked our diverse vacations, leveraging spatial elements to visually represent and narrate our travel experiences.
• Presentation and Collaboration: We presented our vacation logs to each other, fostering collaboration and enhancing our ability to communicate spatial information effectively.

Conclusion: These projects not only enhanced our technical proficiency in GIS tools but also sharpened our ability to apply spatial analysis techniques and present findings in a professional setting.

Previous Experience with GIS

Before joining the team, our exposure to GIS was limited primarily to consumer-grade applications like Google Maps. Our internship provided us with a deeper understanding of GIS as a comprehensive system for geographic data analysis and management.

Key Takeaways

Our experience with the GIS department was enriching, yielding several key takeaways:

• Technical Skills: We developed proficiency in geospatial analysis techniques and the operational use of GIS software, enhancing our ability to manipulate and interpret spatial data effectively.
• Soft Skills: Collaborating within a professional team environment improved our communication skills and our capability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Career Development: The skills acquired during our internship are directly applicable to future roles within our company, ensuring that we can contribute effectively to projects requiring spatial analysis and data visualization.

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Database Administration

What Is Database Administration

Database administration in IT involves the management and maintenance of database management systems (DBMS) software. Database administrators (DBAs) ensure databases are accessible, protected, and functioning optimally. They manage tasks such as database backups, restores, and monitoring database performance.

Team Lead

Our team lead during this internship was Hasan Shaik, a knowledgeable professional in database management and administration.

Duration on the Team

We spent a total of 20 hours over 3 days working with the Database Administration team, gaining valuable insights and practical experience.

Activities and Responsibilities

During our internship with the Database Administration team, we engaged in various tasks:

• SQL Server and SQL Proficiency:We quickly grasped concepts related to SQL Server and SQL programming language. This included performing database backups and restores using different techniques such as full, partial, transaction log, and differential backups.
• Backup and Restore Procedures:We learned the nuances of each backup and restore type, ensuring data integrity and availability in case of system failures or data loss incidents.
• Server Management:We gained insights into managing SQL servers, ensuring they operate efficiently and securely to meet organizational needs.
• Collaborative Learning:With varying levels of prior experience among team members, we collaborated and learned from each other, enhancing our understanding of database administration principles and practices.

Previous Experience with Database Administration

Prior to joining the team, some members had familiarity with SQL Server and SQL programming, while for others, database administration was a new and exciting territory.

Key Takeaways

Our experience with the Database Administration department was enriching and educational:

Technical Proficiency:We acquired practical skills in SQL Server management, database backup, and restore operations, essential for maintaining data integrity and availability.

Collaborative Skills:Working together as a team allowed us to leverage each other's strengths and knowledge, fostering a collaborative environment for learning.

Professional Growth:This internship provided us with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in database administration, preparing us for future roles in IT and database management.

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Development

What is Development?

Development is the process of advancement and improvement of existing technologies or the creation of entirely new technologies through research and innovation.

Team Lead

During this internship, our team lead was Tenario Powell, a maestro in his field whose extensive knowledge is matched only by his passion for teaching.

Duration On The Team

We spent a total of 40 hours over 6 days working with the Development team, gaining practical experience and skills.

Activities and Responsibilities

During our internship with the Development team, we engaged in various tasks:

• Projects: We contributed to several projects, where we applied our skills and learned new techniques essential for successful technology development.
• Previous Experience with Development: Before joining the team, some members had experience with development, while for others, it was a new and exciting challenge.

Key Takeaways

• Technical Proficiency: We gained hands-on experience in Visual Studio through the use of HTML, JavaScript, and CSS. We utilized industry best practices by using a Bootstrap template and accessing its GitHub repository.
• Collaborative Skills: Working together as a team allowed us to leverage each other's strengths and knowledge, fostering a collaborative environment for learning.
• Professional Growth: This internship provided us with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in development, preparing us for future roles in technology and innovation.

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Submarine

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