I am currently working as a Network Analyst Co-Op at TECO’s Bearss Operations Center, where I gain hands-on experience in an operational environment supporting critical infrastructure across both IT and OT domains.
This role exposes me to a mix of on-prem and cloud-based systems, reinforcing how modern enterprise environments rely on hybrid architectures rather than a single platform or location. I work in environments that span OT and traditional IT networks, which has been especially valuable in understanding how operational systems differ from standard enterprise systems in terms of risk, availability, and security requirements.
I am gaining exposure to enterprise virtualization and infrastructure platforms such as vSphere, along with network and performance monitoring through tools like SolarWinds. I also interact with operational workflows using ServiceNow, which highlights how incident tracking, change management, and documentation are critical in large-scale environments.
From an access and identity perspective, I am learning how privileged access management tools like CyberArk support secure operations, particularly in sensitive or regulated environments. On the cloud side, I am gaining experience with Azure, helping me understand how identity, networking, and security controls extend beyond on-prem infrastructure. I am also becoming familiar with application delivery and access technologies such as NetScaler, which further reinforces the complexity of enterprise network environments.
In parallel, I am completing NERC training, which emphasizes compliance, accountability, and the importance of following established processes when working with critical infrastructure. This training adds important context to the technical work by reinforcing why reliability, documentation, and access controls are non-negotiable.
One of the most valuable lessons I am learning is how closely networking, cybersecurity, compliance, and operations are integrated. Decisions made in one area often have direct impacts across others, which reinforces the importance of thinking holistically rather than in technical silos.
This experience is shifting how I approach problems. Instead of only asking whether something works, I now focus on whether it is resilient, secure, and sustainable in a production environment.
Working in the Bearss Operations Center continues to strengthen my interest in operational and mission-critical environments, where infrastructure reliability and cybersecurity directly support real-world outcomes.