Say Hello to our BCIT Co-op Students: Part 1

Did you know that Nucleus hosts student practicums? For years, we have worked with BCIT to place student IT professionals who are looking to gain experience at a Managed Service Provider. This month we sat down with Brandon, one of two of our 2023 co-op students to talk about his practicum experience.

How did you get interested in IT?

I first got interested in IT during my Computer Hardware course in high school. I was fascinated by the inner workings of a computer after learning about the different hardware components. This led me down the path of taking every single IT-related courses at my high school, including networking, Linux, and programming. In Grade 12, I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in IT  and I applied to BCIT's Computer Information Technology (CIP) program.

After gaining some valuable work experience at Nucleus, I've decided to specialize in cybersecurity and I hope to work in the network security field.

Tell us a bit about BCIT’s CIT Program...

The CIT program is a two-year program that covers a wide range of IT topics, including computer hardware, software development, network administration, cybersecurity, database management, and project management. It’s a combination of theory and practice and includes a co-op opportunity.

What’s your typical day like at Nucleus?

My typical day starts off with checking emails and updates from clients regarding workstations. Sometimes workstation deployments need to be bumped in the priority queue in order to ensure computers are shipped out on time. Throughout the rest of the day, I will complete workstation setups and be available for emergency client on-sites to install server drives, setup last minute employee computers, and fix boardroom TVs.

What’s your most memorable service ticket?

My most memorable help desk ticket was my first on-site at a client's office. I was sent to help with a broken monitor and computer reset. In hindsight, the task was easy to resolve but I was incredibly nervous due to it being my first time going to a client's office. All in all, it was a successful onsite and a great learning experience.

What’s your favourite aspect about working at Nucleus?

My favourite part about working at Nucleus is working with and learning from the team. Everyone at Nucleus is very knowledgeable and always willing to lend a hand to help with whatever problems we run into. 

Andrew Ng has been my mentor throughout my internship at Nucleus.  Andrew has always been willing to provide a helping hand no matter how busy he is. He's been a great teacher and I'm glad he was around to help us.

What tools have you gained experience using during your co-op? 

I rely on Connectwise ScreenConnect, Automate, and Immybot. ScreenConnect provides us with remote access to all client workstations so that we can resolve issues from anywhere. Automate allows us to monitor workstations and deploy scripts to all computers. Immybot has been my favourite tool to use as it helps me more efficiently setup workstations.
 
What insights have you learned about the Managed IT service industry?

Managed Services is a fast-paced industry. There is always work to be done and this has afforded me with the opportunity to learn a lot of new skills. There has almost never been a moment where I am not learning at Nucleus.
 
How have you grown professionally in your co-op term? 

I've gained valuable insights into how businesses operate. I’ve developed strong relationships with colleagues and clients. Building these relationships has not only enriched my professional network but has also helped me improve my communication and interpersonal skills.

Any advice for other students on the same career path as you?

Working in this field requires you to always be willing to learn. IT is a field that is constantly changing and you have to be able to adapt to that. Technology evolves and it's crucial to learn the newest technology and how it works.

Interested in a co-op at Nucleus? Reach out to us!