In 2025, a 59-year-old former HP manager took a seasonal job in Antarctica; now 60, she wakes at 6:30, tracks cargo and dances under 24-hour daylight

After nearly three decades working at technology giant Hewlett-Packard (HP), May Lee found herself facing a surprising career change in 2025. Laid off in February 2025, she initially looked for another job in the technology industry. However, after struggling to secure an offer, the former marketing and communications manager started exploring a different possibility: working in Antarctica, a place she had previously visited twice as a tourist. At 59, she secured a seasonal position as a supply technician at McMurdo Station, according to Business Insider. Now 60, Lee told the publication that her work life combined warehouse duties, a tightly scheduled day and an active social scene beneath the Antarctic summer’s persistent daylight.From an HP career to managing Antarctic suppliesMay Lee nearly spent 30 years at HP before being laid off in February. Despite having professional contacts and referrals, she reportedly struggled to land another job in the technology sector. The outlet reported that a friend of hers encouraged her to consider interests outside her established career. Her past visits to Antarctica made the continent an appealing possibility, and she applied for positions supporting the US Antarctic Program. Eventually, Lee secured a seasonal supply-technician position with Amentum, a contractor supporting station operations.At McMurdo Station, Lee managed a warehouse handling information technology and communications supplies. Her role included physical tasks alongside accurate record-keeping. Receiving cargo, operating a forklift, checking deliveries against database records and investigating inventory discrepancies were all included in her role. This job was a significant change from her previous career and required physical tasks alongside accurate record-keeping.A workday shaped by logistics in AntarcticaAccording to Business Insider, during her first season, Lee usually woke up at 6:30 am and prepared for a 7:30 am start. She described herself as a night owl who is accustomed to the comparatively flexible schedule and culture of Silicon Valley, making McMurdo’s fixed schedule an adjustment. The station’s “town hours” generally run from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Saturday, although schedules are subject to differ according to roles and operational requirements.Cargo deliveries are central to keeping McMurdo supplied. During Lee’s first season, large aircraft delivered supplies earlier in the summer, while changing conditions subsequently affected the type of aircraft used for cargo operations. In the warehouse, Lee received shipments, moved supplies, checked deliveries against database inventory records and investigated inventory discrepancies. Additionally, food availability reflects the challenges of supplying a remote station. Lee shared that lunch begins at around 11:30 am in the cafeteria, where residents can choose from options including pizza, burgers and buffet dishes. When cargo deliveries are in operation, fresh produce is more readily available. The resident described the food as varied and good, while also noting that availability can change as the season progresses.Line dancing and radio shows under the midnight sunAfter finishing her work around 5:30 pm, Lee reportedly completes her time card and heads to dinner. She described the station as having the feel of a small college town, where limited internet access can encourage residents to socialise in person. Their recreational activities include crafts, line dancing, art shows and other community events. This gives the staff opportunities to spend time together after work.Furthermore, Lee volunteers as a DJ, hosting a 1980s-themed programme called ‘Ms Purple!!’s 80’s on the 8’ on Ice Radio. Sundays offer a break from her usual six-day working schedule. She told the publication that she often sleeps late and sometimes nearly misses the station’s Sunday brunch. She sometimes uses the day for outdoor activities or to prepare for the coming week. Her unexpected move from a long career at HP to seasonal work in Antarctica shows how a surprising layoff can lead to a markedly different professional direction.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.