Meet our Advanced Computing Facility interns

Scott Gordon 

I started a work placement with EPCC in August 2021. I currently work full-time at the Advanced Computing Facility (ACF) alongside studying at Napier University where I’m pursuing a degree in Cybersecurity & Forensics.

In my short time so far with EPCC I have assisted with a large variety of things, such as helping to diagnose hardware faults with servers, network migrations, and general day-to-day datacentre operations. As I interact with contractors and engineers on-site I have also picked up bits and pieces about HVAC, having witnessed (and been incredibly impressed with) the sheer scale of the infrastructure required to cool and power the ACF and what’s contained inside.

One of my main professional interests is process improvement and DevOps practices. Coming from an IT helpdesk background I am aware that time-consuming and repetitive processes can be a real pain point, and I feel that it’s incredibly important that a person’s job can be done efficiently, not only for the cost and time-saving benefits but also for their overall happiness and wellbeing. This lines up nicely with the way that EPCC is constantly evolving, and I look forward to being part of it.

Kristiyan Tanev

I am a third-year networking student at Napier University. Working as a new ACF intern is a never-ending rollercoaster of emotions, each day unique with new experiences, connections and opportunities to apply my knowledge.

A typical day starts with getting my working space ready. Generally we then ensure the computer rooms are unlocked as required, and contractors are given access.

After our daily team meeting I continue working on my tasks, which include installing and configuring software and hardware systems, designing computing solutions, and applying knowledge in the maintaining of systems. I want to work for EPCC at the ACF because it is one of the few organisations that combines technical knowledge and working with supercomputers with teamwork and a friendly environment, as well as ensuring the quality of work does not drop and every user is satisfied.

I want to gain the skills and experience necessary to become head of networking so that I can build my career and open my own successful company. I have been working and putting all the effort towards my goals and during my internship I have the opportunity to put my knowledge into practice.