This summer, I was tasked with using technology to support the organization and planning of a large-scale business relocation at my externship site, the Idaho Innovation Center. The organization is moving after 40 years in its current location because its building lease is not being renewed. The primary goals of the project were to organize decades of accumulated inventory and records, prepare materials for the move, and develop systems that would ensure a smooth and efficient transition into the new facility. Another important goal was to assess the new building by measuring spaces, creating maps, and renumbering offices to meet the needs of the organization.

The Idaho Innovation Center serves entrepreneurs and small business owners by providing educational resources, office space, a commercial kitchen, and a food truck village to help businesses launch and grow. Because of the variety of services offered, careful planning and organization were essential to ensure that operations could continue with minimal disruption throughout the move.

During my time at the host site, I completed a variety of projects that contributed to these goals. I created digital forms to organize and reconcile tenant files, measured and mapped the new building, and audited years of paperwork to determine what should be shredded, archived, or retained for permanent storage. I also participated in team meetings and assisted with daily operational tasks that supported the relocation process. Throughout the project, I utilized AI tools, spreadsheets, digital forms, and several software programs to improve efficiency and organization. I was also introduced to Ninety.io, a meeting management platform that streamlines communication, documentation, and accountability within teams.

This experience significantly expanded my knowledge of how technology can improve organizational systems and project management. I developed stronger skills in digital organization, record management, collaboration, and problem-solving while working on a project that required careful planning and adaptability. Successfully completing unfamiliar tasks also increased my confidence in learning new technologies and applying them in practical ways.

The knowledge and skills I gained will have a direct impact on my teaching career. As a special education teacher, I manage large amounts of documentation, student records, and compliance paperwork. The organizational systems, digital tools, and archival strategies I learned during this externship will help me manage those responsibilities more efficiently. I also plan to incorporate technology into team meetings and collaborative planning to improve communication and productivity. Most importantly, this experience reinforced the value of perseverance and lifelong learning. By stepping outside of my comfort zone and successfully completing challenging projects, I have gained experiences that I can share with my students, encouraging them to embrace challenges, develop new skills, and recognize that growth often comes from trying something unfamiliar.