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Enterprise Wireless Alliance Names Scholarship Winner

The Enterprise Wireless Alliance (EWA) said Jeremy Sklute, a student at Old Dominion University (ODU), will receive the EWA-Joseph B. Vestal Endowed Scholarship. It awards financial aid to a full-time student at ODU enrolled in Electrical Engineering Technology or Information Systems Management, who intends to pursue a professional career in wireless applications or telecommunications.

Sklute is interested in exploring how wireless applications send data, particularly the use of wireless communications in virtual and augmented reality. His interest in wireless data transfer developed while working on a project to redesign the wireless lighting system for the ODU Monarch Marching Band.

“Sklute has a passion to solve real-world, emerging problems using wireless technologies,” said EWA President Mark Crosby in the announcement. “The scholarship committee was impressed with his ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.”

Scholarship funds are raised through individual and corporate donations as well as through a silent auction held each year at the Wireless Leadership Summit, a conference for leaders of the private wireless industry.

Alan Bock Leaves Crown Castle, Joins Crown-Funded Vapor IO

Vapor IO, a builder of tower-connected edge data center platforms, announced the addition of Alan Bock to its executive team, as vice president of business development, telecommunications. Bock served in various roles at Crown Castle, including vice president of corporate development and strategy where he led Crown’s M&A efforts, including the initial investment in Vapor IO. With Vapor, he will focus on carrier relationships as well as relationships in emerging verticals that include autonomous vehicles and smart cities.

“Alan’s experience and knowledge of the wireless and edge computing industries is second to none, and we are thrilled to have him on the team at Vapor IO to partner with the wireless carriers and help build out our application ecosystem,” said Cole Crawford, founder and CEO of Vapor IO.

Crown is an investor in Vapor IO’s Kinetic Edge platform providing funding to be used to co-location data centers and interconnection facilities at the edge of the wireless network.

“The edge presents an awesome disruptive force in how networks are built. It will enable services that were unimaginable even five years ago,” said Bock. “I look forward to making a mark as the company pushes the industry forward.”

Shentel Joins CTIA Board

CTIA, the wireless industry association, said Shentel, the Shenandoah Telecommunications Company, has joined the association’s board of directors. Shentel SVP of Wireless William Pirtle, will represent the telecom effective immediately. Shentel says it’s the sixth largest public wireless company in the U.S. and provides telecommunications services to consumers across Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Kentucky.

Promoted to Senior Vice President in 2015, Pirtle joined Shentel in 1992, as Vice President of Network Services, responsible for Shentel’s technology, maintenance and operational network decisions. He led the company’s participation in its wireless PCS business and Sprint affiliation beginning in 1995. He is also the co-founder of the Shenandoah Valley Technology Council.

“As the wireless industry continues to rollout the next-generation of wireless networks, we look forward to working with Shentel on expanding access to mobile broadband,” said CTIA President/CEO Meredith Attwell Baker. Read the full CTIA board of directors list here.

T-Mobile Names EVP for Merger

T-Mobile US announced that Sunit Patel has joined the company as its new Executive Vice President, Merger and Integration Lead, effective October 1. Patel will head T-Mobile’s strategic planning efforts “to integrate its business with Sprint as the two companies work through the necessary regulatory reviews and other closing conditions to combine and become the New T-Mobile.” On April 29, of this year, T-Mobile and Sprint entered into an agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction. The parties expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2019. Patel will report to T-Mobile President and Chief Operating Officer Mike Sievert and will be a member of the company’s senior leadership team.

Patel joins the Un-carrier from CenturyLink where he was the company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He previously held the same role at Level 3 Communications for more than 14 years before the two companies merged in 2017. Over that time, Patel played a key role in numerous successful large-scale strategic transactions, including Level 3’s purchases of network operator Global Crossing and business internet provider TW Telecom.

“I’ve known Sunit for many years and he’s going to be a fantastic addition to this talented management team,” said T-Mobile CEO John Legere. “He is smart, savvy, full of big ideas and ready to hit the ground running. I am confident he’ll fit right in here at the Un-carrier. I look forward to seeing you in magenta, Sunit!”

WIA Promotes Two Key Staff Members

The Wireless Infrastructure Association promoted Zac Champ to Vice President of Government Affairs and Don Andrew to Vice President of Spectrum Management. Both changes were effective immediately, according to WIA President/CEO Jonathan Adelstein, who announced the news.

Adelstein credited Champ, who has been at the association for five years, with expanding the Government Affairs team to include dedicated Congressional lobbying and state affairs resources. The moves allowed WIA to “extend its reach and improve on its already excellent reputation,” according to Adelstein.

Andrew joined WIA in 1994. Adelstein calls him: “a growing legend in the spectrum management and frequency coordination industry.” Over 24 years, “and despite significant changes,” Adelstein said, “Don ensured that WIA remained well-positioned as a leader in market share and customer service and has also created a world-class team.”

American Tower Names New VP of International Operations

American Tower’s William H. Hess intends to step down from his position as Executive Vice President, International Operations and President, Latin America and EMEA, effective October 1, 2018 the company reported late yesterday. Olivier Puech, who has been with American Tower for approximately five years, will succeed Mr. Hess in the role of Executive Vice President and President, Latin America and EMEA, effective October 1, 2018. To assist in the transition of responsibilities, Mr. Hess will assume the new role of Executive Vice President and Chairman of Latin America and EMEA, reporting to Jim Taiclet.

Mr. Hess first joined American Tower in 2001 as Chief Financial Officer of American Tower International and has since held a number of roles with the Company, including General Counsel and EVP, International Operations. Under his leadership, American Tower expanded its Latin American and EMEA footprint to more than 52,000 towers across fourteen markets while generating strong organic growth and returns. Continue Reading

FCC’s O’Rielly Gets New Wireline Advisor

FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly has a new wireline advisor. Arielle Roth will move from the Wireline Competition Bureau, where she provides counsel on universal service and pricing, on September 4. Prior to her FCC work, Roth was a legal fellow for the Hudson Institute’s Center for the Economics of the Internet. She replaces Amy Bender, who leaves the Commission today.

Rob Sandburg Joins CTG as Vice President

Communications Tower Group, a wireless site developer, owner and operator headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, announced Rob Sandburg has joined the team as Vice President.  Rob has over twenty years of wireless site development experience with AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, as well as numerous tower development companies such as AMT and Crown Castle.

Ricardo Loor, CEO of CTG, said “CTG is excited to have Rob join the team. The breadth and depth of his industry knowledge and personal relationships with carriers and vendors will be key to the success of our company.”

Former WIA VP Named Head of Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce

The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce announced today that Julie Coons, CAE will serve as the Chamber’s next President and CEO effective September 10, 2018.

Coons was executive Vice President for WIA (then known as PCIA) from 2001 to 2004.  Since then, she has been Chief Operating Officer of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, President and CEO of the Electronic Retailing Association and President and CEO of the Maryland Tech Council.

SQUAN Hires John Ferrara as CFO

SQUAN, provider of design/build services for network infrastructure, appointed John Ferrara as the firm’s new Chief Financial Officer.  He will serve as an advisor to the CEO Duane Albro. Ferrara’s most recent and relatable experience was as CFO for Cartesian, Inc., a consulting firm focused on global telecommunications, media and technology. He was also CFO for CNN’s TheStreet.

Ferrara holds an MBA in Finance from Columbia University and a BS in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park. His experience in building companies through organic and acquisition-based strategies will, according to the company announcement, “add revitalized focus on SQUAN’s expansion into new network technology solutions.”

Singer President Authors Book on Microwave Antennas

Singer Executive Development announced yesterday that Andy Singer, its President, has authored a new book “Microwave Antenna Installation and Alignment.” The book, according to Singer, is the “definitive guide to microwave radio antenna systems. All aspects of microwave antennas are covered including selecting, installing, aligning, optimizing and troubleshooting microwave antennas and antenna systems. It is the de facto industry standard.”

Gene Crusie, President of MapleNet Wireless said, “Andy has managed to effectively combine the art and science of microwave antenna installation in a simple, engaging and informative style. He has distilled a career full of real world microwave experience into an easy to read and follow technical book that will certainly become the de facto standard for technical training of managers, technicians and engineers.”

The book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

LBA Group Names New Technology Manager

LBA Group, Inc. (LBA) is boosting its group technical resources with the appointment of David Sourdis as Technical Services Manager. Sourdis will focus on expanding technical capabilities in existing and new LBA unit markets.

“Dave’s education, training and experience in RF and Civil Engineering related to wireless communications systems, cellular and microwave antenna systems, and test equipment will be an asset to our plans for future growth,” LBA COO Mike Britner said.

A native of Colombia, Sourdis holds a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Corporacion Universitaria de la Costa, Colombia. He brings an international portfolio of telecommunications and project management work experience in the U.S., Latin America and Europe to leverage LBA business opportunities worldwide. Dave is an amateur radio operator, HK1A, and resides in Washington, NC.

Steve Vondran Becomes AMT’s New U.S. Tower Chief

American Tower Corporation (NYSE: AMT) is planning big changes to its U.S. Tower senior management team. Steven Marshall intends to step down from his position as Executive Vice President and President, U.S. Tower Division, effective today, August 1. Steve Vondran, who has been with American Tower for approximately 18 years, will succeed Marshall in this position, also effective today. To assist in the transition of responsibilities, Marshall will become a strategic advisor, reporting to CEO Jim Taiclet, through October 31.

Marshall first joined American Tower in 2007, as Executive Vice President, International Business Development and was appointed to lead the U.S. Tower Division in March 2009. Under his leadership, the U.S. Tower Division more than doubled the number of sites in its tower portfolio and nearly tripled property revenue and operating profit, according to the company.

Vondran joined American Tower in 2000, and was appointed Senior Vice President of its U.S. Leasing Operations, in August 2004, where he oversaw project management, operational finance and national sales teams. In August 2010, Vondran was named Senior Vice President, General Counsel, U.S. Tower Division, where in addition to leading the legal function, he oversaw the integration of key acquisitions and the negotiation of tenant master lease agreements.

New FCC Chief Economist Hails from Pepperdine University

The FCC has a new chief economist. Dr. Babette Boliek comes to the agency from the Pepperdine University School of Law where she’s the associate dean of faculty research and a law professor. The chief economist typically serves a one-year term. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said Boliek will be a central figure in the agency’s new Office of Economics and Analytics.

Dr. Boliek’s research at Pepperdine focuses on applied economic and legal analysis in the areas of internet regulation, competition and antitrust, privacy, and the mobile telecommunications industry. Her teaching responsibilities have included antitrust law and policy, communications law, corporations, and contract law.

Outgoing Chief Economist Dr. Jerry Ellig is returning to academia. Dr. Boliek is expected to begin her D.C. assignment in August.

Charter Names Rachel Welch SVP, Government Affairs

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR) announced that Rachel Welch is joining its Government Affairs organization as Senior Vice President, Policy and External Affairs. She will lead the team responsible for developing the company’s public policy positions and building external partnerships to further shared policy objectives.

Welch joins Charter from Cox Enterprises, a communications, media and automotive services company. At Cox, Welch was Vice President of Government Affairs. She has spent her career in telecommunications in both the public and private sectors. Before her time at the former Time Warner Cable, she was Communications Counsel for the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation where she worked extensively on communications issues that came before Congress and the FCC. She also previously worked for Time Warner, Inc., Covington and Burling, AT&T and McCaw Cellular Communications.

Peer Group Pressures Pai to Climb a Tower

Not all of yesterday’s FCC oversight hearing was contentious. Some members of the House Communications Subcommittee ribbed FCC Chairman Ajit Pai about Commissioner Brendan Carr’s tower climb. Readers may recall Carr recently scaled a 50-foot training tower at Sabre Industries in Sioux Falls, SD.

Rep. Pete Olson (R-TX) said he was once a leader in the Navy. Noting that Pai is a leader, he said to Pai: “You have a member who climbed a cell tower. Don’t you think you should, too?”

After a prolonged sigh, Pai admitted he was “unprepared” for the “curveball.” Pai said: “Although Carr is younger and more nimble, I commit to climbing a small cell, maybe a 10-foot tower in Houston” when that 5G system is ready. Verizon announced this week it will place such a system there this year.

Federated Wireless and Airspan Unveil Shared Spectrum Deal

Federated Wireless, a shared spectrum technology provider, and Airspan, a provider of Advanced LTE small cells and small cell backhaul solutions, yesterday announced a long-term collaboration agreement aimed at enabling organizations pursuing opportunities within the emerging shared spectrum market. Together, they provide solutions for commercialization of the 3.5 GHz CBRS band in the U.S., while also offering a path to unlock additional spectrum bands for the proliferation of 5G technologies.

“Our joint goal is to explore the boundaries of small cell technology in order to lay the foundation for 5G, cost-effectively adding bandwidth to mobile networks, thus enabling massive densification,” said Airspan Networks President/CEO Eric Stonestrom. “Federated Wireless’ unique model and leadership in the field of shared spectrum solutions complements Airspan’s market-leading position in Advanced LTE small cells.”

Telamon Announces Acquisition of CLS Group

Telamon Corporation announced the acquisition of CLS Group, a provider of site acquisition, design, engineering, and construction services in the Telecom industry and land services to the Oil & Gas industry.  Headquartered in Edmond, Oklahoma, CLS Group holds licensure in 48 states across the country. The integration of CLS’s services into Telamon’s Deployment Ready Solution® suite of wireless, wireline and in-building services creates a pre-construction professional services offering with the scale to support the extensive needs of wireless carriers, tower owners, OEMs and utility providers in the current accelerating densification trend impacting macro, small cell and DAS networks across the U.S.

The acquisition of the CLS Group, who currently performs services on 5,000 sites annually, will enable Telamon to more rapidly grow its presence in the wireless market.

“This acquisition is a major milestone in Telamon’s strategy to support our client’s network requirements while providing a turnkey offering for the 5G revolution,” said Telamon’s CEO, Stanley Chen. “Coupling Telamon’s existing suite of telecom solutions with the CLS Group’s skillset only complements the portfolio and positions us to play a critical role in the ongoing wireless densification efforts and buildout of small cell and 5G networks.” Continue Reading

NEDAS Appoints Steve Yapsuga Co-Chair of Advisory Council

The Northeast DAS & Small Cell Association (NEDAS) announced yesterday the appointment of Steve Yapsuga, Director of Sales – Eastern U.S. at Comba Telecom, as Co-Chair of the NEDAS Advisory Council. Yapsuga’s areas of expertise include enterprise DAS, in-building public safety, smart city infrastructure, and small cell industry segments.

“I am delighted to welcome Steve to his new role and look forward to the value he will bring as we work to advance the scope and reach of NEDAS,” said Ilissa Miller, President of NEDAS.

CTI Names Kevin Travelstead Director of Sales

CTI Towers announced it has named Kevin Travelstead its Director of Sales. Travelstead has been in the wireless industry for over 20 years with extensive experience in marketing and selling network development services. For CTI Towers, he will be responsible for leading the marketing and sales of the company’s tower assets.

“Kevin has a wealth of industry knowledge and his carrier and small cell experience will drive tower leasing today, and in the future, as CTI moves into new lines of business,” stated CTI CEO Tony Peduto. “With over 1,000 towers now in the company’s portfolio, as well as the new demands placed by our customers, we absolutely needed to upgrade the management of our sales department.”

Travelstead has been successful in identifying and developing new and emerging market opportunities for network services, according to CTI. Most recently, he developed and launched a small cell engineering services platform for telecom engineering services firm BHC Rhodes. Prior to that, he held sales director positions with Nexius, Black & Veatch, Sprint and McCaw Wireless.

Pat Cipov Named to the Wireless Hall of Fame

The Wireless History Foundation (WHF) will induct five honorees into the Wireless Hall of Fame during the Foundation’s Awards Dinner in Los Angeles on September 12, at the Omni Hotel.  The WHF described Cipov’s achievements in introducing this year’s inductees:

Vertical Bridge’s Gellman Named to Top 50 Edge Computing Leaders

Data Economy named Vertical Bridge CEO and Co-Founder Alex Gellman to their “#Edge50,” showcasing the 50 personalities who are “leading edge computing through charting new innovations or technological breakthroughs, sheer investment or business acumen, or exceptional entrepreneurial skill-sets.”

The online publication said Gellman “has taken the front row seat in leading the company’s edge vision, having invested into the segment as well as entering into a partnership with DataBank in one of the U.S.’ biggest edge deals to date.”

Inside Towers reported on Vertical Bridge’s purchase of DataBank in September of last year for the purposes of developing micro data centers at the base of towers that will enable edge computing.

Comba Telecom Names Don Henry to North American VP of Sales

Comba Telecom announced that Don Henry is the new North American VP of Sales. His new responsibilities include leading strategic management of Comba’s sales programs and key initiatives, as well as day-to-day sales operations in North America.

“We are thrilled to have Don join the executive team,” said Comba Telecom GM Augustin Chang. “Don has been indispensable to Comba Telecom’s success, especially in public safety and will continue to help Comba’s commitment to provide the latest innovative products, quality service and dedication to achieve exceptional and timely technical support for the highest level of customer satisfaction.”

For more than three years, Henry has has been the Director of Sales, West Region and the unofficial Public Safety Program Manager. Prior to Comba, Henry worked at multiple system integrators where he excelled at growing the business for commercial and public safety wireless solutions, according to the announcement.

Everstream Names Lauzze Director of Wireless Sales

Everstream recently appointed A.J. Lauzze to the newly created position of Director of Wireless Sales, according to the Daily Messenger.  Lauzze previously worked with Crown Castle Fiber for 17 years and held positions at American Fiber Systems and TEKsystems Telecom in Rochester, NY.  He joined Everstream as project manager/outside plant engineer. Lauzze has a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Medaille College in Buffalo and an associate degree in criminal justice from Hilbert College in Hamburg.

SBA’s David Sams Elected TIRAP Chair

The Executive Board of the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) announced yesterday that David Sams, Vice President of Risk Management with SBA Communications, was elected Chairperson of the group. Paul Roberts, Vice President of Compliance for American Tower Corp., was elected Vice-Chairperson, and Beau Aero, President and Founder of GME Supply, was elected Secretary. Former Chairman Scott Kisting was named Chairperson Emeritus.

TIRAP is a joint venture of telecommunications companies, industry associations and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that develops DOL-credentialed apprenticeship programs and makes them available to qualified employers for workforce development.

“We have achieved several milestones over the past four years,” Sams said. “It’s my goal to continue our efforts in recruiting employers and employees into the apprenticeship program. The Trump Administration is very much in favor of expanding apprentice programs, and TIRAP is the only telecommunications industry-driven program connecting people with companies. I’m also looking forward to our continued work with the National Wireless Safety Association and the National Association of Tower Erectors as we work to train, test and credential skilled employees who are responsible for the wireless communication systems that are available in our country.”

Mark Ciarfella of SBA Joins National Wireless Safety Alliance Board

The National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) announced today that Mark Ciarfella, Executive Vice President – U.S. Operations at SBA Communications Corporation, has been appointed to serve on the organization’s Board of Directors. The NWSA leadership made the announcement from the Wireless Infrastructure Association’s 2018 Connectivity Expo, which is taking place this week in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The NWSA, headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, is a national non-profit assessment and certification organization established to provide thorough, independent assessments of knowledge and skills and provide verifiable worker certification in order to enhance safety, reduce workplace risk, improve quality, encourage training, and recognize the skilled professionals who work on towers and other non-standard communication structures.

“The NWSA is excited to announce the addition of Mark Ciarfella to the Board of Directors,” said Executive Director Duane MacEntee. “Mark’s extensive background and experience working at a prominent international wireless communications infrastructure firm like SBA will add tremendous insight to help the organization navigate the next phase of getting worker certification programs to scale in the industry,” added MacEntee.

SQUAN Names Don Henry as General Manager of Engineering

SQUAN, announced yesterday they have appointed Don Henry as their new general manager of engineering. Don is an industry veteran with over two decades of network infrastructure experience. He will report to SQUAN CEO Duane Albro.

In this role, Henry will be responsible for the management of SQUAN’s multi-office engineering division, including P&L, business development and all operations functions. He will oversee a staff comprised of project managers, outside plant engineers, CAD drafters and support personnel as defined by customer needs.

Henry has held several key leadership positions including director of dispatch operations and general manager at Frontier Communications, and director of operations and director of construction titles at Verizon. Before joining Verizon (NYNEX/New Telephone Company), Don was a combat arms officer in the Army, assigned in Germany and in the southwestern region of the United States. During his service, he attained the rank of Captain.

BDC Gets New Federal Liaisons

The FCC’s Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee (BDAC) is getting new agency liaisons to replace Brian Hurley, who is leaving the Commission for a position in the private sector.

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai promoted Paul D’Ari to be what the agency is calling a Designated Federal Officer (DFO), effective today. He was Deputy DFO of the group. Deborah Salons and Jiaming Shang will become the new Deputy DFOs.

Pai said Hurley, “has my sincerest thanks for helping to shepherd the BDAC and its working groups during its inaugural year through countless hours of fruitful discussions, resulting in numerous constructive recommendations to the Commission that will assist us in reducing barriers to broadband deployment.” Pai also praised D’Ari for his work.

Sprint Moves Marcelo Claure to Executive Chairman, Michel Combes to CEO

Sprint Corp (NYSE: S) yesterday announced that its Board of Directors has elevated Marcelo Claure to Executive Chairman, and appointed Michel Combes to the role of Chief Executive Officer.  In their new roles, Claure and Combes will collaborate on the continued execution of Sprint’s strategy as well as its planned combination with T-Mobile. Claure, who has served as CEO since 2014, will remain a part of the Sprint senior management team. The transition is expected to occur on or before May 31, 2018.

“Marcelo has done a remarkable job of turning around the Sprint brand and business, driving enhanced network performance, strong subscriber growth and significant cost reductions leading to the best financial results in Sprint’s history,” said Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group Corp. “Marcelo has also positioned Sprint as a leader in the race to 5G, which promises to revolutionize the communications industry.  He will continue to guide Sprint’s strategy and momentum as Executive Chairman through a successful closing with T-Mobile.”

“Michel Combes is a proven industry veteran and the right executive to lead the next phase of our transformation,” said Mr. Claure.  “Michel’s tremendous leadership and management skills and his 25 years of experience will be invaluable as we continue the subscriber and financial momentum we have.”

Carrier Association Moves Headquarters

The Competitive Carriers Association (CCA), having battled it out for this industry in downtown D.C. for over 25 years, decided it was time for a change of scenery.  They have moved to 601 New Jersey Ave NW, Suite 820, Washington, D.C. 20001, roughly 3,000 feet away from the Capitol.  The CCA said in a release, “we’re better positioned to fiercely advocate on behalf of competitive wireless carriers, stakeholders, and the millions of Americans whose connectivity depends on fair policies.”

NEDAS Appoints Linda Michaels as VP of Business Development

The Northeast DAS & Small Cell Association (NEDAS) and iMiller Public Relations (iMPR) announced the appointment of Linda Michaels as Vice President of Business Development, NEDAS.  In this role, Michaels will drive strategic growth initiatives for the organization’s sales and partnership development while managing the team to achieve revenue goals and marketing objectives.

Inside Towers Staff Update

Inside Towers is pleased to announce that Megan Reed and Cara Aston are assuming additional responsibilities. Megan, Marketing Director and Cara, Creative Director, have begun handling sales and account management alongside industry veteran, Phil Cook.

“Cara and I know Inside Towers inside-out from working behind the scenes for years to facilitate its growth, content and creative direction. We’re looking forward to taking on a more direct sales function. We know how great Inside Towers truly is and we look forward to working with our current advertisers and expanding our client base,” Megan said. Cara added, “Inside Towers is a targeted marketing vehicle. I am excited to work with our clients to maximize their marketing results.”

For more information, reach out to Cara, (904) 607-1338 or Megan, (203) 733-5943.
Megan will be attending WIA’s ConnectX in Charlotte, where she currently resides. Click here to schedule a meeting.

KP Performance Antennas Appoints New Sales Leadership Team

Mike Hoprich (left) and Michael Inverso

KP Performance Antennas, a manufacturer of Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) antennas, appointed Michael Inverso and Mike Hoprich, to lead the company’s sales initiatives throughout North America and abroad.

Michael Inverso joins KP as the new Director of Sales. He brings over 20 years of experience in the RF/Microwave communications industry and the global WISP market. His experience includes sales engineering, sales management, customer service management, channel management and technical support, for brands including Trango Systems, Inc. and Z-Communications, Inc.

Mike Hoprich joins the company as the Regional Sales Manager for the Eastern territory. He brings a decade of experience in the wireless industry, having worked in numerous roles from sales leadership, product management, technical support, field engineering and marketing at SWG Inc., based in Pennsylvania. Hoprich has extensive hands-on WISP industry knowledge having sold and licensed over 500+ links for various point-to-point and point-to-multipoint networks.

CommScope Appoints Pease as Chief Financial Officer  

Alexander W. Pease has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer of CommScope, a global leader in infrastructure solutions for communications networks, effective April 2. Pease succeeds Mark Olson, who, as previously announced, is retiring from the company.

Pease is an experienced leader who brings to CommScope more than 18 years of extensive financial and operational experience across a wide range of industries, including serving as CFO at two publicly-owned companies. Pease most recently served as executive vice president and CFO of Snyder’s-Lance, a global consumer packaged goods company based in Charlotte.

Prior to that, Pease was a principal in McKinsey & Company’s global corporate finance and business functions practice, after serving as senior vice president and CFO at EnPro Industries, where he oversaw six operating divisions in addition to the finance, accounting, strategy and development, global supply chain and information technology functions.

“Tough Tower” Maker Evelyn Torres To Be Honored By Manufacturing Institute

The Manufacturing Institute will award Evelyn Torres, CEO of Solaris Technologies with the Women in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Ahead Award on April 10, in Washington, D.C.. The STEP Ahead Awards honor women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory-floor to the C suite.

Torres’ company, Solaris Technologies, manufactures a Cell on Wheels dubbed a “Tough Tower” due to its galvanized 2 3/8” OD schedule 40 steel pipe for its 36” base spread “among the largest base in the industry” according to Solaris. The towers have the ability to lift payloads up to 1,100 lbs at the top, and provide protection against harsh conditions.Continue Reading

JPS Names Dixon President

JPS Interoperability Solutions, announced the promotion of Todd Dixon from COO to President, effective yesterday, March 1.  Dixon has a BA in Business Administration and has worked in varying finance roles throughout his career, serving the former JPS Communications as CFO from 2005 through 2009. He rejoined JPS Interoperability Solutions, Inc. and became CFO in 2017.

Don Scott, prior President and one of the founders of JPS Communications, will retain his position as CEO. According to Scott, “Mr. Dixon is eminently qualified to lead JPS on a day-to-day basis and has long been moving towards that role.  His promotion will increase my time to focus on our future – our technology roadmap and continuing to grow our sales/distribution channel.”

WTA Promotes From Within

WTA – Advocates for Rural Broadband announced staff promotions in its Washington, D.C. office.

Derrick Owens has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Government & Industry Affairs. His responsibilities continue to be leading WTA’s Washington office, being the primary spokesperson for the association, and working with the membership and outside industry stakeholders to advance federal policies that enable the deployment of broadband in rural areas.

Eric Keber, formerly Director of Government of Affairs, has been promoted to Vice President of Government Affairs. Eric has been with WTA for the past 11 years, and he is WTA’s main liaison with Congress.

National Wireless Safety Alliance Makes Board of Governors Appointments

The National Wireless Safety Alliance (NWSA) announced their appointments to serve on the organization’s Board of Governors.

Those serving include: Bernard Borghei, Executive Vice President – Operations and Co-Founder of Vertical Bridge, Doug Dickinson, Western Region Environmental Health & Safety Manager at Ericsson, Bruce Eades, President of USA Telecom Insurance Services, Pat Moore, Field Service Specialist at Stainless, Paul Roberts, Vice President of Compliance for American Tower Corporation, Jose Tarafa, Corporate Operations Manager at Mastec Network Solutions and Gary Trent, Quality Assurance Engineer for U.S. Cellular.

The NWSA Board of Governors consists of representatives from a broad cross-section of the industry and is tasked with developing policy and overseeing the activities of the various committees that will serve under their jurisdiction.

DiVito Named COO at Fullerton Engineering

Frank DiVito was recently named COO of Fullerton Engineering.  Prior to that, he had served as Vice President in the company.  DiVito has served as President of the Illinois Wireless Association and has degrees from The John Marshall Law School and the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.

“As COO, I am responsible for the execution of Fullerton’s vision to continue to grow our Site Development Services and continue to enhance our Engineering, DAS, Small Cell, OSP and Construction Management services.”  For over 17 years, DiVito helped Fullerton increase gross revenue, grow new divisions and diversify their client base.

“These successes were not achieved alone,” DiVito said. “Without a great team of people behind me who engineer, manage and solve problems we would not be able to generate these types of results.”

Bandwidth President John Murdock Joins CTIA Board

CTIA®, the wireless association, announced that Bandwidth Inc. President, John Murdock will serve on its board of directors effective immediately.

Bandwidth, a software company focused on communications technologies, has long been an active participant with CTIA. Companies like Google, Skype, and Ring Central use Bandwidth APIs to embed voice, messaging and 911 access into software and applications.

“Bandwidth is a valued CTIA member and we look forward to collaborating further as we accelerate the deployment of next-generation 5G wireless networks,” said CTIA President/CEO Meredith Attwell Baker.

Murdock has been with Bandwidth for the past decade, is a board member and was general counsel. Before that, he founded a specialized law firm focused on complex civil litigation. He served on active duty as a U.S. Marine Corps officer with combat experience.

Tilson Exec Named “Top Young Professional”

Kelly Brewer, Director of Engineering at Tilson was named to Engineering News-Record’slist of  “Top Young Professionals” in New England for 2017.
At 28 years old, Brewer leads the engineering division for Tilson in Portland, Maine, a high-growth telecom, IT and construction firm which in 2017 made the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies.  Brewer oversees more than 100 staff across 17 offices from Maine to Los Angeles and helps educate future engineering and construction professionals as adjunct faculty at the University of Southern Maine….and she is the mother of two.

Teleco South Florida Adds Three Execs

Teleco South Florida, a Deerfield Beach, FL based National Technology Provider of Cellular DAS, Public Safety DAS and Structured Cabling Systems, announced the addition of Wayne Puffer, Andrew Mancone and Florencia Hernandez to their executive staff.

• Wayne Puffer, a U.S. Navy veteran, has nearly 25 years in the telecommunication industry. For the last seven years, Wayne has been focused on the wireless market for In-Building Cellular Enhancement DAS and Public Safety DAS First Responder Networks.
• Andy Mancone has over 30 years of experience in computing applications, communications applications and technology solutions platforms. Andy has extensive experience in RF optimization which lends itself well to the emerging market of Cellular and Public Safety DAS.
• Florencia Hernandez is a native Argentinian and fluent in both English and Spanish and has over 20 years of experience in B2B and B2C Sales, Marketing, Graphic Design, Brand Management and Event Planning for both the Latin American and U.S. Markets with a strong background in the Telecommunications Field (DAS, Public Safety & Test equipment).

Bahamian Tower Exec to Receive NATE Award

Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC’s) Senior Manager of Mobile Network Operations, Clement Rolle, will receive the Chairman’s Coin Award from the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) this month in Nashville, Tennessee. He joined BTC in September of 1977, in the tower and antenna section where he worked through the ranks, building towers/antennas and installing transmission lines throughout the Bahamas.

This award is presented to individuals that have showcased dedication and service to the mission of NATE. Every year, only three individuals have the privilege to receive this international award.

“Clement has been selected by NATE Chairman Jim Tracy to receive the prestigious Chairman’s Coin at NATE UNITE 2018,” said Executive Director Todd Schlekeway. “Clement’s loyalty and passion for NATE and the industry is contagious and has played a big role in the success of his career. All of us in the NATE community are very excited that Mr. Rolle will be receiving this much-deserved recognition in Nashville next month,” Schlekeway said.

Clement plays an essential role in the company as the only tower rigger in the business. He has also been a part of the BTC family for more than 40 years!

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