Fernando Sousa

Fernando Sousa

“Fernando Sousa, one of INESC TEC’s most senior staff members, has taken on the interim management of the Network and Communications Service (SRC) since January 2025 – following the departure of Gil Coutinho. Thanks to his dedication, expertise, and professionalism, Fernando ensured the transition happened without a hitch, demonstrating remarkable leadership skills. He stands out for the careful and helpful way he interacts with the entire organisation, always replying promptly and effectively to the needs of various teams. With nearly 34 years at the institution, he embodies the values of excellence and commitment that define INESC TEC. He continues to play a key role in the smooth running of the organisation, ensuring we all have secure connectivity both inside and outside our facilities. For all these reasons, I’d like to nominate Fernando to the ‘Incredibles’ section.”

– Luís Seca, head of the SRC

You’re currently responsible for the management of the Network and Communications Service. Could you tell us a bit more about the team’s work and the activities carried out by the Service?

The SRC is responsible for communications, network infrastructure, printers, data centres, and various network services. Our work involves the planning and implementation of network-related services, as well as their management, security, and technical maintenance. Over the past few months, on top of everything else, I’ve taken on some of the service management responsibilities.

Having been with the organisation for over three decades, what can you tell us about how you’ve witnessed the evolution of the institution, and of the service you’re part of?

As we witnessed during the celebrations of the 40^th anniversary of the institution – from the various testimonies and shared information -, things have changed quite a lot. The first building blocks of what we are today were being laid back then; I do remember a much smaller institution, and quite a bit more informal.

Is there any story or anecdote you’d like to share? Or a moment you recall for a specifi reason?

When you work in helpdesk, there are plenty of stories – all kinds of them, and very different. But… I really can’t share them here. 🙂

A standout moment was the move from INESC PORTO, in the city centre, to the Asprela building (now Building A). It was a tremendous effort over a weekend; we were responsible for moving all the equipment (some of it, using our own cars), and we had to make sure everything was up and running by Monday morning.

One curious story, which I often use as an example of enterprise-level security, was when we needed to organise a video-call with Volkswagen, in Germany; perhaps ten years ago. Back then, the most common type of video call was H.323, point-to-point, typically using IP. Volkswagen, for security reasons, refused to provide an IP address; we had to use ISDN instead. Despite our insistence due to the call quality, they were relentless. The technician’s response was that the bureaucracy involved would make it impossible to hold the call on the scheduled date.

Which aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?

After so many years at this institution, I’d say there are several things I enjoy. I must highlight the work environment and the people who make it what it is. You simply can’t enjoy your job without that very important component (high-five, first floor).

What I enjoy most about working in IT is the constant need to learn and solve problems. Technology is constantly evolving, which makes this job challenging and never boring.

How do you comment on this nomination?

It’s incredibly rewarding to know that people recognise my work; I’m grateful for this, but I must thank the SRC team: Nuno Santos and Bruno Abreu. Without them, this “smooth transition” wouldn’t have been possible.