I will be the first to admit that I am the worst person on the planet when it comes to computers. As a matter of fact I struggle with most new technology. Let's face it I grew up when Pong was the only video game and the Atari 64 was the computer of choice. Many of you will need to ask your parents about the last two items. Anyway as I mentioned the Information Technologists may not quite rule the world (well not yet at least), but they are invaluable in our tech dependent society.
Meet the members. The Information Technologists.
Scott Walker
Kathleen Gavahan
The walls of monitors at the dry lab watch station.
There are three Information techs on board. Besides Scott and Kathleen there is Sean. There really is a Sean he is just camera shy. As with the rest of us they work a twelve hour shift. Here is a little look into their day.
It can be tough making sure all the technology is operating properly in stormy seas!
Scott, Kathleen and Sean are employees of the Antarctic Support Contract (ASC). This is their job description as described by the United States Antarctic Program.
One of the many racks of computer hardware.
The IT's primary responsibility on board the NB Palmer is the centralized data acquisition system, the maintenance and repair of ships network and running E-mail and the Internet Café'. They maintain all the networks and computers for the grantees and ASC use. The IT's also assist with set up, operation and repair of other shipboard systems, for example the Satellite phone (AKA morale phone), the XBT and multibeam systems. At the end of the cruise they will compile all data from the science equipment. These include CTD, XTB, TSB and sonar data. It is archived and provided to the Chief Scientist. Did you get all that?Impressive isn't it? What I did not mention is that they are always available no matter how busy they are to help even a tech inept guy like me. They are friendly, knowledgeable and most importantly patient. I promise to get better before the end the cruise! Thanks Kathleen, Scott and Sean.