Meet the Team: Ted Coppedge

by  | NOC Technology

Meet the humans behind the IT.

Ted is our Director of IT. When asked what he brings to the team, Ted said: "Expertise. Sometimes our techs will come to me with questions that I am typically able to answer (or find an answer). I have a particularly strong knowledge and skillset with networking and virtualization."


Q. Early bird or night owl?

Night owl     


Q. Favorite movie?

V for Vendetta.


Q. Favorite bands?

My current favorite is Bear Tooth.


Q. Favorite local restaurant?

7th Street Tap and Grill. I recommend their pork tenderloin.


Q. If you could invite anyone to dinner, who would it be?

My parents.


Q. Hobbies?

I have been playing Magic the Gathering for 20+ years and have more recently started to play Dungeons and Dragons.


Q. As the director of IT at an IT service provider, does your position carry any unique challenges?

Since we are such a tightly knit group, I might do more day-to-day provision than most. Beyond that, my job is pretty similar to that of other IT directors.


Q. Favorite IT tech tip or hack?

My favorite shortcut is to use “Windows + V” to view and manage my clipboard.


Q. Favorite productivity software or extensions?

U Block Origin. It’s a convenience and cybersecurity browser extension that blocks ads and malicious websites. It will also redirect you if it suspects you are navigating towards anything suspicious and can even block phishing attempts.


Q. What current cybersecurity threats concern you the most for NOC’s clients?

Phishing attempts. We have a good security stack (software and hardware) in place to prevent most hacking or malware attacks, but an end user can be taken advantage of through phishing pretty easily.


Some of our clients are spear phished if they have been compromised in the past or have somehow given an inkling to an attacker that they could be a worthwhile or easy target. However, most of our clients are being blanketed by run-of-the mill phishing attempts.


Q. How do you feel about recent AI language models?

In general, I like AI when it is not overly-used or relied upon. I treat it primarily as a helpful tool. I personally use it mainly for scripting or partial-scripting of code.


Q. If you could give NOC Clients one piece of advice to improve their relationship with the technology that they use, what would it be?

Budget better for equipment upgrades. Many of our clients could have prevented a painful IT crisis by upgrading their hardware or software ahead of time. Most of the time they have been trying to save some money by avoiding pushing off an upgrade, but end up with a much larger and more expensive problem as a result.

Missouri Sheltered Workshops can empower human potential through AI
By Jon Lober April 24, 2025
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Tech upgrades that will boost employee safety in sheltered workshops
By Jon Lober April 15, 2025
At NOC Technology, we've worked with Missouri sheltered workshops for over seven years, and I've witnessed firsthand how the right technological implementations can transform sheltered workshop environments. Today, I'd like to share some insights on leveraging modern technology to create safer workspaces while maintaining the dignity and privacy of all participants. The Unique Safety Challenges of Sheltered Workshops Sheltered workshops provide valuable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, but they also present unique safety considerations. Workers may have varying levels of physical mobility, cognitive processing, and sensory perception—all of which can impact how they respond to traditional safety measures. Additionally, the production environments often involve machinery, tools, and materials that require careful monitoring and management. The Role of Smart Technology in Safety Advancements in smart technology provide real-time safety monitoring, immediate alerts for potential hazards, and improved emergency response times. Let’s explore some key technologies and their benefits in sheltered workshop environments. Personalized Alert Systems Traditional emergency alarms can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Smart alert systems can deliver personalized notifications through: Vibrating wristbands that alert workers without auditory overload Visual notification systems with customizable colors and patterns Tablet-based communication for workers who benefit from visual cues Location-specific alerts that only notify those in affected areas We recently implemented a multi-modal alert system at a workshop in central Missouri that reduced anxiety-related incidents during emergency drills by 65% . Environmental Monitoring Maintaining optimal environmental conditions is crucial for both safety and productivity: Temperature and humidity sensors that automatically adjust HVAC systems Air quality monitors that detect potentially harmful particulates Noise level monitoring to prevent sensory overload Automated ventilation systems that activate when chemical levels exceed thresholds These systems not only protect workers but also provide documented compliance with OSHA regulations. Enhanced Supervision through Smart Cameras Security cameras have evolved beyond simple surveillance. Modern systems can: Detect unusual patterns that might indicate a worker in distress Monitor restricted areas without constant staff presence Identify when machinery is being used incorrectly Alert supervisors to potential safety hazards Important note: All camera systems should be implemented with strict privacy protocols and transparent policies. Workers and guardians should be fully informed about what is being monitored and why. In many cases, audio cannot be recorded, and the camera system must be configured to meet this requirement. Wearable Safety Technology Wearable devices offer personalized safety monitoring without stigmatization: Fall detection pendants that automatically alert staff Location tracking that helps locate workers in emergency situations Biometric monitoring for workers with health conditions Proximity sensors that prevent accidental entry into hazardous areas These wearables can be designed to look like standard ID badges or watches, preserving dignity while enhancing safety. Implementation Best Practices Successfully integrating smart technology into sheltered workshops requires careful planning: Involve all stakeholders: Workers, guardians, and staff should participate in selecting and implementing new technologies. Prioritize simplicity: Choose solutions that require minimal training and maintenance. Phase in gradually: Introduce new technologies in stages to allow everyone time to adapt. Balance automation with human oversight: Technology should supplement, not replace, trained staff. Respect privacy: Collect only essential data and maintain strong security protocols.
Could your sheltered workshop benefit from grant funding for new technology?
By Jon Lober April 7, 2025
As a sheltered workshop, you play a crucial role in providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. However, like any organization, securing funding for technology upgrades can be a challenge. While investing in the right tools can improve efficiency, security, and overall productivity—that’s all only if you can afford the tools in the first place.
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