Collin McArdle joined the company as an IT intern for Yellowstone General Stores, which is operated by Delaware North at Yellowstone National Park. He currently serves as a senior director of IT operations for Delaware North’s Parks and Resorts division, focusing on the execution of IT systems at locations while also overseeing the IT teams based in each Parks and Resorts location within his region.
What were the most valuable skills or experiences you gained during your program?
I attended Malone University in Canton, Ohio, and was graduating with a bachelor’s degree in computer science but wasn’t sure what my next step would be career-wise. The internship was exactly what I was looking for as the role involved acting as a generalist while also being hands-on and building connections with everyone at the park. So, for me it was the real-world work experience that was so valuable, as it led me into this career.
What stands out as the most memorable part of your internship?
The blend of work and play and the people who I worked with. During my time at Yellowstone, I lived with two other interns, and we would hike or do something in the park almost every day after work.
During the workday, you would often be driving together into the park for support or setup, and with that time it really built memorable and lasting relationships.
Were there specific projects or initiatives you worked on that had a lasting impact on your career?
In 2013, Yellowstone was transitioning its POS (point-of-sale) system, and I had to have an in-depth understanding of the new system in order to properly support the team. I can recall reading through the 400+ page manual so I could troubleshoot many issues on my own and only pull in my supervisor or contact the system’s support line if I didn’t have the answer. At that time, Software as a service was not as standard as it is now, and each call to the vendor could potentially have a cost associated with it. My takeaway from that experience was to make sure I was bringing as much as I could to the table by learning as much about the system as possible.
Who or what inspired you most during your internship?
My supervisor, Heather Urkuski. Heather was amazing – she had an incredible knowledge in all areas of IT. On top of that she was personable with the staff and placed a strong emphasis on applying guest path principles to how we treat our colleagues as well, which is something that I’ve always tried to emulate throughout my career. Taking over for her in Yellowstone in 2019 was not intimidating in the technical aspects of the job, but because she was admired by everyone.
Tell us about your career path since coming back to Delaware North:
After my internship at Yellowstone, I took a position with the help desk at corporate headquarters in Buffalo and then was hired as the first IT administrator for the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. I later moved on to different roles at corporate headquarters before being offered my dream job in 2019 as an IT operations director for the Montana and Colorado Parks and Resorts locations, based out of Bozeman, Mont. I’ve been in IT operations since then, working as a regional director for additional locations and now for the Parks & Resorts division.
Do you stay in touch with colleagues or mentors you met during your internship?
Absolutely. We try to get together for yearly ski trips, run a friendly competition for a Memorial Day fitness challenge and generally keep tabs on each other throughout the year.
What accomplishments are you most proud of since completing your internship?
The big team projects have always meant the most to me. I really enjoy collaborating with teams across the company and working together to accomplish something great, like bringing a new property onboard.
Looking back, what advice would you give to yourself at the start of your internship?
Don’t rush through your current position to get to the next one. Each step of your internship and career gives you valuable experience and skills.
What advice would you give someone who was just starting an internship or trainee program with Delaware North?
Don’t be afraid to say “yes” to a project or opportunity, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone. The experience you gain all adds up and is one of the most valuable parts of the program.