“Last Friday, I was replacing the computer that monitors and logs the robotic system used for milking cows at a local dairy farm. It’s pretty cool looking through the window and seeing an inquisitive cow checking out what you’re doing,”
There aren’t many roles where you can spend the morning working on a farm with robotic technology and the afternoon assisting clients in insurance and property conveyancing. However, that’s a typical day on the road for Gavin Finch, a Level 2 IT Technician at IT Basecamp, based in Huskisson.
Whilst much of his time is spent working out of the Huskisson office, working remotely with clients is also a part of the role and he enjoys the variety of days on the road.
“Last Friday, I was replacing the computer that monitors and logs the robotic system used for milking cows at a local dairy farm. It’s pretty cool looking through the window and seeing an inquisitive cow checking out what you’re doing,” Gavin explained.
Not only do his days vary, but his weeks do too. This week, he’s off to Taree for a monthly service trip to a health services client. He leaves early, enjoying the drive along the coast from Berry just as the sun rises. “I always think to myself, this is pretty nice. The added bonus of longer drives is getting to listen to a bunch of podcasts. The time goes by quickly.”
After arriving in Taree in the afternoon, he’ll meet with the onsite Facilities Manager to finalise after-hours access and security arrangements. This allows him to return later in the evening when the workplace is empty to shut down network equipment to make improvements and upgrades.
“We have a high level of focus on redundancy in our IT systems, so there are duplicate system components, with automated failover”. Unlike troubleshooting unexpected issues, this work is more proactive and planned.
When Gavin first joined IT Basecamp, he worked on the Help Desk, where no two phone calls were the same. While this role taught him a lot, he’s enjoyed the progression to being out on-site with customers. “I like being face-to-face with people. I feel prepared for what I’ll be doing, and I like that.” But as with anything in technology, surprises are inevitable.
“I’ll be on-site installing or updating something when someone from the business notices me. They might have a printer that isn’t working or WiFi that’s a bit patchy but weren’t sure who to ask. It’s great being able to fix something small that makes their workday easier.”
His time on the Help Desk helped him build strong client relationships over the phone, which now translates to trust in the field. “A lot of it is built on trust. The role I do is quite technical, and too many details can be overwhelming. But because I’ve built relationships with clients, I can give them a general overview, and they trust my advice.”
Gavin is grateful for the opportunity to build his IT Technician career on the South Coast. “I love visiting all the towns up and down the coast on client visits. I have my favourite coffee shop overlooking Ulladulla Harbour and the best spot for a sandwich in Kiama, which makes the trips even better.”
