TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --
To move hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of equipment and personnel is no easy feat, but the 325th Communication Squadron has done just that in a Network Control Center relocation project.
Over the last several years, the 325th CS has been planning and recently executing a $2.5 million dollar relocation of the NCC from building 748 to building 817. This center is the main hub for Tyndall's access to the internet and network systems allowing day to day operations.
"The NCC consists of Network Operations, who perform server maintenance; the Infrastructure shop, who covers cables, switches and the transport layer of the network; and the Client Systems Technicians, who actually go out and work on computers," said Michael Jones, 325th CS network operations chief.
Along with moving the equipment, upgrades to the network and infrastructure were also installed to enhance network reliability.
The building which housed the NCC equipment was built during WWII. The building has since deteriorated and weathered, becoming unserviceable. It has been scheduled for demolition by the 325th Civil Engineer Squadron.
The planning and remodeling of the new location was the longest part of the relocation.
"First we had to remodel the building to get it up to speed and capable of housing the equipment," said Jones. "This included putting in new subfloors, air conditioning, generators and uninterruptible power supplies."
After the construction was complete, a contract was awarded to relocate the equipment with as little impact to the base populace as possible. With a projected completion date in mid-February, the only remaining equipment to move is application type servers, like IPTV, said Jones.
"The moves are scheduled to happen at the most convenient down times, like weekends or late nights," said 1Lt. Terel Hayes, 325th CS deputy flight commander. "We hope for minimal impact to the base. If you didn't notice the move a few weeks ago, you probably won't notice anything."
Over the years, Airmen working in the old building have had to deal with hardships that will no longer cut into work productivity, creating a more efficient work flow.
"I am extremely proud of the men and women of the 325th CS," said Daniel Moran, 325th CS deputy director. "They have worked long and hard maintaining critical network services in the old facility. This move has been a long time coming. The team has done great work moving into the new location while trying to minimize network downtime. In the long run, the move will enable the CS team to provide more reliable network services to all of Tyndall."