NOC is Thankful For: Keyboard Shortcuts

by Jon Lober | NOC Technology

Some of our staff members share their favorite keyboard + shortcuts.

This Thanksgiving, NOC Technology is thankful for the little technical accessories that make life just a little more pleasant. The timer on the coffee pot that lets us wake up to fresh brewed coffee. The remote start for the car for chilly mornings. Our Bluetooth headphones that keep us from fumbling with cords.

 

And for those of us that spend most of our days at a computer… keyboard shortcuts.

 

In the spirit of sharing, our team wanted to pass along a few of the Windows shortcuts that make life behind a keyboard just a little easier.


Though they might not be essential, they sure are nice—consider them the coffeepot timers of the digital world.

Jon Lober Chief Executive Officer

Windows + L – Lock keyboard when you walk away

Windows + D – Minimize all windows

 

Michelle Smith Service Delivery Coordinator

Windows + Shift + S - Make image snippets 

Windows + any directional arrow – Change the size or position of a window

 


Nathan Hooker Service Desk Manager

Ctrl + Shift + N – New incognito tab 

Ctrl + W – Close the tab you are in 

Ctrl + Shift + T – Reopen your last closed tab 

Ctrl + Shift + Del – Open clear browser history/cookies/cache, etc 

Ctrl + J – Open your browser's downloads page 

Ctrl + Shift + V – Paste as plain text

 

Stephen Arnett Technical Engineer

Ctrl + Shift + T repeatedly – Open remembered tabs in your browser
Windows + D
– Pull up your desktop 
Windows + P
– Navigate through the display options for multiple monitors / wireless 
Alt + Tab
– Return to the last page / application you were working on (keep pressing Tab to cycle through multiple applications)
Windows + .
– Emojis

 

Thomas Nowak – Technical Analyst

Windows + L – Lock your computer.

Windows + any directional arrow – Change the size or position of a window

 

In word processors,

Control +B – Bold type

Ctrl+I – Italics

Ctrl+U – Underline

 

In an internet browser,

Ctrl+L – Put the cursor in the address bar

 

Tina Karch – Director of Operations

Windows + D – Access your desktop by minimizing all windows.

 

 

Kaleb Eldridge – Content Manager

Ctrl + C – Copy

Ctrl + X – Cut

Ctrl + V – Paste

Ctrl + Z – Undo

Windows+Shift+S – To make screenshots and snippets

Windows + V – To bring up the clipboard with history of copied text

 

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.
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