IT Staff Spotlight: James Barry

10 Dec 2025

James Barry works as a Networks IT Support Analyst in IT Services. We chat to James about his career to date, what it’s like working in the Networks team and IT Services.  James also gives us a glimpse into his life outside UCC, as a member of the Irish Coast Guard.

Tell us about your career to date?

I completed a BSc in Business Information Systems at UCC in 2021. This gave me a strong foundation in IT systems, networking, and software development. I completed placement in Janssen during my third year of college. After graduating, I started an internship with the IT Services team in the Platform Delivery Group (PDG). In this role, I supported day-to-day network operations and other areas managed by PDG. In July 2022, I seized the opportunity and successfully secured a full-time position as an IT Support Analyst within IT Services. 

James, what is a standard day for a Networks IT Support Analyst?

My role involves supporting the network’s daily operations while managing key projects across campus. This includes overseeing network upgrades, replacing outdated switches, upgrading communication rooms, implementing VLAN changes, and ensuring the smooth management of both on-campus and off-campus communication rooms.

Working in IT Services and UCC, what do you enjoy most?

One of the things I enjoy most about my role is the variety it offers. It’s not all desk based, I’m often out and about replacing switches and troubleshooting issues. You might spot me around campus on the IT Services e-bike on my way to resolve a network incident! I really value working within the network team; we have a great rapport and share plenty of laughs. That strong working relationship makes problem-solving easier and helps us quickly identify the root cause of complex and technical issues.

Life outside UCC.  You are a member of the Irish Coast Guard, tell us more about that?

Outside UCC, I dedicate much of my time with the Irish Coast Guard as part of a Cliff Search and Rescue Team and I previously served on the Boat Unit. I’m certified for cliff-top operations, rescue climbing, and instructor training, and I inspect climbing equipment. Given my IT background, I also manage the unit’s IT systems.

Our work often involves missing persons along the coastline, including walkers, swimmers and kayakers. We also support National Ambulance Service, Fire Service and the Gardaí during major incidents. While some outcomes are heartbreaking, helping families and loved ones find closure is deeply meaningful.

Pictured right: James Barry scaling the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse as part of his work with the Cliff Search and Rescue Team, Irish Coast Guard.