Name:            Ben
Job Title:       Computer Professional
Department:  Computing Division – Computing Services Infrastructure
Service:         3+ years
Education:     Bachelor of Science - Computer Science and Communication, DePaul University 1998
Background:  Native of Ghana, West Africa.  Moved to Chicago, IL to attend DePaul University

What are the best reasons to work at Fermilab?
The people, the projects, the location, and the campus. Everyone I've met so far has been really nice and helpful. Since coming to Fermilab I've already built several systems using a Fermilab version of Linux and I think that’s cool. I have worked on Windows Systems and I am now supporting Mac OSX. The location is close to my home and everything I do. The campus view is breathtaking. I can take a walk from Wilson Hall (which has a nice cafeteria for a coffee or tea break) to the Feynman Computing Center to and clear my head when working on a crazy issue.

What has been your most fun experience at Fermilab?
I still think modeling pictures for the employment website is tops but being part of the team that setup and administers Large Hadron Collider Remote Operating Center in Wilson Hall is also pretty cool.

What do you like best about your job?
The cutting-edge technology, in-house creations, and variety of projects that are run on different computer clusters. I go into a data center, see thousands of computers, and realize I'm part of the team responsible for these. I think its entrepreneurial spirit amidst of all the rules and regulations that make Fermilab a cool place to work.

When you came to Fermilab, did you anticipate having the level of responsibility you currently have?
I knew where I would fit in at Fermilab in terms of responsibility level, but I didn't realize how broad of a responsibility I would have and the number of people I would get to interact with.

What do you see as the greatest opportunity at Fermilab?
The chance to learn something new every day; a variety of applications, methodologies, hardware, and exposure to what I call “clustering on steroids.” I have more of an opportunity to be part of a team that is working supporting multiple people to create, build or find answers to multiple scientific conundrums.
 
What is the most important thing that keeps you working at Fermilab?
The people I work with. I'm part of an awesome team. My co-workers and I go to great lengths to help each other to make sure the right results are achieved.

Anything else to add?
I’m happy here. It’s such a change from the commercial world. I have work life balance, and can schedule my time better for work and family. I generally am able to take a “guilt free” lunch or able to walk around the ring during lunch when brain needs a break.