Carrie Charles

Podcast
In this episode of 5G Talent Talk, Carrie Charles speaks with Ken Schmidt, President of Steel in the Air, Inc. Steel in the Air provides guidance to thousands of clients across the United States on cell tower and cell site leases. Kenโ€™s many years of experience has led him to become a pivotal thought leader in the industry, using his knowledge to guide hundreds of municipalities through the complexities of cell tower lease issues. His expertise also extends to assisting private and public landowners, as well as major entities in the airline, subway, university, and public utility sectors.ย They discuss the increase in activity the wireless industry has seen in the first half of 2024 as well as how master lease agreements between public tower companies and wireless carriers have changed significantly, with carriers now looking to alternative private tower company models for more favorable terms. Ken also shares his thoughts on how the meteoric rise of AI will change the telecom industry and how individuals can adapt. Being open and willing to change is crucial for both survival and success.
Podcast
In this episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, we explore the remarkable journey and company culture of Great Plains Communications (GPC) with Joe Pellegrini, President and COO. With a 113-year legacy, GPC leads the telecom industry by providing essential services to underserved communities.

Joe shares insights into GPC’s diverse business model, which includes six business units for a resilient approach to the evolving telecom landscape.

This interview highlights GPC’s active participation in government-led broadband initiatives, including BEAD funding, showcasing their success in expanding connectivity and ensuring digital equity. Joe emphasizes the importance of respectful engagement, employee empowerment, and customer advocacy in fostering high employee retention, innovation, and growth. Joe delves into GPC’s vision for the future, which includes thoughtful growth, flexibility, and a relentless commitment to solving customer needs through continuous innovation. He also sheds light on their strategies for talent retention, focusing on respectful engagement, collaborative teamwork, and opportunities for employee growth and development.ย 
Podcast
In this episode of 5G Talent Talk, host Carrie Charles chats with Tonya Stopke, Senior Vice President at World Wide Technology (WWT). Tonya shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to a leadership role, emphasizing perseverance, authenticity, and community support.Tonya discusses WWT’s evolution into a global tech leader, their pioneering work in AI, and their significant investments in staying at the forefront of innovation. She highlights the shift from 5G to AI focus at the recent Mobile World Congress and how WWT leverages AI for meaningful business outcomes.The episode also covers WWT’s commitment to strong company culture, diversity, and inclusion. Tonya offers advice for women in tech, stressing self-awareness, advocacy, and the importance of a supportive network. She shares personal experiences on balancing career and personal life, and her passion for empowering women in technology.Tune in for Tonya’s insights on leadership, technology, and personal growth, and get a glimpse of why it’s #SoFunToBeMe!
Podcast
Explore the world of telecom leadership with Carrie Charles on the latest episode of 5G Talent Talk. Joining her is Lynn Whitcher, the President of the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) and General Counsel for MD7. Lynn shares her remarkable journey from litigator to telecom industry leader, offering insights into the evolving landscape of wireless infrastructure and the crucial role of women within it.

In this episode, Lynn emphasizes the significance of networking and relationship-building in the telecom industry, shedding light on WWLF’s mission to support and empower women professionals. Discover the wealth of opportunities available through WWLF, a national organization powered by the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA), as Lynn and Carrie delve into the organization’s impactful programs and networking events, including the WWLF annual event coming up at Connect (X) in Atlanta. Learn how WWLF is driving change by promoting STEM careers and advocating for greater female representation in the wireless industry.

Join the conversation as Lynn and Carrie explore the importance of employer support, the evolution of diversity initiatives, and the power of self-investment in career advancement. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding talent, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for thriving in the dynamic world of telecom.
Podcast
Step into the dynamic world of wireless infrastructure with Carrie Charles on 5G Talent Talk as she sits down with Patrick Halley, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA). Discover Patrick’s unexpected journey into telecommunications and his pivotal role in shaping connectivity for all.ย Patrick shares insights into WIA’s mission to advocate for widespread wireless infrastructure deployment, ensuring connectivity everywhere. Get an exclusive sneak peek into the upcoming Connectivity Expo “Connect (X)” in Atlanta, promising unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.ย Explore WIA’s groundbreaking workforce development initiatives, including apprenticeship programs and innovative training, addressing the evolving needs of the industry. Gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the wireless industry in 2024 and beyond, from the impact of artificial intelligence to the proliferation of private 5G networks.ย 
Podcast
Join Carrie Charles on this episode of 5G Talent Talk as she engages in an insightful conversation with Donna Johnson, the Chief Marketing Officer of Cradlepoint. Donna shares her remarkable journey to the C-suite, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and adaptability in career growth. As an expert storyteller, Donna eloquently narrates Cradlepoint’s evolution from revolutionizing cellular connectivity to shaping the future of 5G enterprise solutions.Donna sheds light on emerging trends such as AI integration and cybersecurity, highlighting how these advancements complement the evolution of 5G technology. Additionally, she offers valuable insights into Cradlepoint’s unique company culture, emphasizing collaboration and continuous learning.For listeners interested in exploring career opportunities, Donna provides valuable advice on navigating the ever-changing tech landscape. With Cradlepoint’s commitment to innovation and Ericsson’s global reach, listeners are encouraged to explore exciting career prospects in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Podcast
Join us as host Carrie Charles sit down with Christos Karmis, the visionary US CEO of Boldyn Networks, for an exclusive peek into the world of cutting-edge network connectivity solutions. From combining six global companies to leading the charge in various market segments, Karmis unpacks Boldyn’s journey and unveils the company’s strategies for staying ahead of the curve. Discover why 5G private networks are the next big thing and how Boldyn is at the forefront of this transformative trend. But that’s not all! Get ready for an inside look at the heart of Boldyn’s success: its unparalleled culture and leadership principles. From fostering empowerment to championing employee recognition, Karmis shares how Boldyn is paving the way for a new era of workplace excellence.
Podcast
In this episode, Trent Edwards, the President of Mears Broadband, discusses his journey in the telecom industry and highlights the unique approach of Mears as a contractor. He emphasizes the importance of building partnerships and trust with customers, and the value of a diverse and empowered workforce. Trent also shares his thoughts on the opportunities and challenges facing the industry, the need for workforce development, and his vision for Mears’ future. Check out the full conversation and learn more about Mears’ commitment to being different and making a positive impact in the industry.ย 
Podcast
Stacey Thompson, the current Chief Operating Officer of ADB Companies, joins us today to share her journey and insights on women in leadership, work-life balance, and the future of the telecommunications industry. ADB Companies is a turnkey provider in the telecommunications industry, with a focus on customer-centricity and the growth, safety, and well-being of team members. This episode dives into the company culture of ADB, Stacey’s approach to effective leadership, and the exciting announcement of Stacey’s promotion to CEO.
Podcast
Step into the future of AI withย Ajay Malik, CEO ofย secomind.ai, in today’s episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles. Ajay shares his passion for AI, drawing on his extensive 30-year career, which includes stints at major tech players like Motorola, Google, and Cisco. Secomind.ai, focused exclusively on AI for five years, empowers businesses in three key areas: enhancing products, providing exceptional customer support, and optimizing internal workflows.
Podcast
Innovative solutions are shaping the future of connectivity, and today’s featured company tackles things like enhancing RF awareness and tackling challenges in private wireless optimization and dynamic spectrum sharing. In this episode of 5G Talent Talk, host Carrie Charles sits down with the visionary Fernando Murias, Chairman and CEO of Digital Global Systems. Fernando takes us on a captivating journey through his 30+ years of experience in high-tech telecom and government contracting, sharing valuable insights into the evolution of wireless communications. Discover how DGS, under Fernando’s leadership, has become a trailblazer in developing technology critical for the rollout of 5G. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from a leader at the forefront of driving positive change in the industry.
Podcast
Technological innovation is happening nonstop. You need to keep learning to stay on top of things and avoid getting left behind. In this episode, Carrie Charles sits down withย Steve Gleave, Marketing Director in the Strategic Missions and Technologies Group atย Microsoft. He talks about Microsoftโ€™s Azure for Operators and how it helps service providers navigate the intersection of AI, cloud network, and modern connected applications. Steve also explains why hyperscalers and telco companies make good partners, why employers should prioritize hybrid setups in a post-pandemic world, the best solutions in retaining the best talents, and the right approaches in de-stressing a work environment.
Podcast
Leadership in the last mile requires a unique set of skills, and in this episode, Co-CEOย Jamie Earpย ofย Ubiquityย shares insights with host Carrie Charles. Discover the driving force behind Ubiquityโ€™s success and Jamieโ€™s leadership style focused on empowerment, authenticity, and transparency. Gain valuable insights into the industryโ€™s future, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence and automation. Join us for a concise yet insightful conversation on empowering teams and staying ahead in the ever-evolving business landscape.
Podcast
The mission at ECSite is to empower the workforce, break data silos, and embrace the future of technology in telecom. In this episode, we sit down with the visionaryย Subbu Meiyappan, the CEO and Founder ofย ECSite, to explore the world of digitizing the telecommunications industry. Subbu shares his incredible story of reinventing himself several times, all in pursuit of the next big challenge. He shares how he launched ECSite, a game-changing automation software company whose mission is to automate every aspect of fieldwork, from design to data collection. Subbu is passionate about making sure the industry is prepared for the future. As he puts it, โ€œAutomating the mundane elevates the human,โ€ and itโ€™s a philosophy that is transforming the way we work in the telecom world. Join us in exploring the possibilities of digitizing the telecom industry.
Podcast
Cultivating the workforce of tomorrow begins with embracing emerging technologies today. Join us in this eye-opening episode with special guest, Ishwar Parulkar, the Chief Technologist for Telecom and Edge Cloud at Amazon Web Services (AWS). Today, Ishwar takes us on a journey through the fascinating landscape of emerging technologies and their profound impact on the Telco industry. He touches on the evolution of Telco, software-defined networking, 5G, and mobile edge computing, providing a unique perspective on the industry’s rapid transformation. Ishwar also explores the impact of generative AI on the workforce and emphasizes the importance of upskilling and retraining. He highlights the need for awareness, education, partnerships, and a shift in mindset to navigate the transformative wave that generative AI and cloud technologies bring. Tune in now and be part of the exciting transformation happening at the intersection of technology and Telecom.
Podcast
Explore the many ways telecommunications can be used as an enabler for entrepreneurial growth and supporting community development. In this episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, weโ€™re joined by Brian Mefford, VP of Broadband Strategy for VETRO FiberMap, to discuss their mission to simplify fiber management and drive community advancement radically. This engaging conversation explores VETRO FiberMapโ€™s efforts of becoming the hub for all aspects of fiber construction, embracing a wide range of public-private partnerships. Additionally, Brian shares insights into the corporate culture at VETRO, their strategies for addressing the challenges that come with business growth, and how grant funding has changed with the latest technological shifts. Tune in to this insightful episode and join us in shaping the future of telecom through innovative approaches and community development.ย 
Podcast
In this episode, join host Carrie Charles as she explores the essential elements of workforce enhancement for sustainable business growth and prosperity. Carrie sits down with Kelly Lazuka, the CEO of Fullerton, for an insightful discussion on building high-performing teams. Discover how Fullerton, a tier one provider, has harnessed the power of mentorship programs, leadership training, and skill development workshops to create an exceptional team that propels business growth. Additionally, gain valuable insights into Fullerton’s recent rebranding journey, aligning their vision with their evolution into a premier tier one provider. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on optimizing your workforce, fostering inclusiveness, and driving business growth through continuous learning and progressive leadership strategies.ย ย 
Podcast
How do we get the younger generation of workers interested in the telecommunications industry? As the skilled labor shortage continues to grow, the solution is certainly not โ€˜easy.โ€™ Thankfully, the Fiber Broadband Association provides resources that make this industry-wide effort a whole lot simpler.ย Joining us today is Deborah Kish, VP of Research and Workforce Development for the Fiber Broadband Association. In this insightful interview, Carrie and Deborah dive into FBAโ€™s top strategies, programs and playbooks to combat the telecom workforce shortage and prepare for the BEAD funding wave ahead.
Podcast
5G is not merely a technology; it serves as the gateway to an unparalleled era of connectivity, efficiency, and innovation.ย In this episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, we are joined by Chris Pearson, the President at 5G Americas. Chris highlights the world of 5G, the groundbreaking wireless network that is revolutionizing how we connect and communicate.ย From the incredible speed and capacity it offers to the vast potential for innovation, 5G has taken the telecommunications industry by storm. Chris shares the highs and lows of 5G adoption and the current state of the wireless industry.ย 
Podcast
The challenges that communities face today need solutions beyond tomorrow. On today’s episode of 5G Talent Talk, we’re joined byย William Davidson, Director of Strategic Initiatives atย NextEra Infrastructure Solutions, to discuss how NIS is closing the digital equity gap.ย NextEra Infrastructure Solutions is a workgroup of affiliates of NextEra Energy that offers unregulated, commercial fiber, lighting, and smart meters solutions for developments, municipalities, and commercial businesses.
Podcast
Nationwide broadband access initiatives face a significant challenge as the telecom industry grapples with a widening skills gap. The combination of an aging workforce and lack of interest among young people presents a formidable hurdle. however, theย Learning Alliance Corporation is at the forefront, working diligently to bridge this gap.ย ย On this episode of 5G Talent Talk, we’re joined by theย President and CEO of Learning Alliance Corporation,ย Cesar Ruiz, to discuss how workforce development programs are reshaping the telecommunications industry. Offering innovative, hands-on training courses and structured apprenticeship programs, Learning Alliance Corporation is bringing new talent to telecom through education.ย 
Podcast
Join Carrie Charles as she engages in an in-depth discussion with Dan Hays, Principal at PwC, to explore the dynamic world of telecom. In this episode, they investigate prominent opportunities for growth and how PwC collaborates with companies to capitalize on them. Prepare to uncover Dan’s perceptive insights on current trends and pressing topics in the telecom sector, such as narrowing the digital divide within the economy. Stay informed with valuable updates on the current state of the telecom industry, with a particular emphasis on the successful integration of the CBRS technology spectrum. As their conversation unfolds, they also analyze the pivotal role of China in the telecom supply chain and the potential risks faced by the industry. Brace yourself for a deep dive into the latest telecom trends and gain a comprehensive understanding of this ever-evolving landscape.ย 
Podcast
Without an informed and tested strategy for talent retention, business leaders will remain on a hamster wheel of recruitment, failing to achieve sustainable growth. Joining us today is Dr. Kent Wessinger, Principal Partner at Retention Partners, to tackle the workforce crisis by sharing his tested and informed strategies to attract, engage and retain employees.ย ย In this captivating episode, Dr. Kent Wessinger identifies the three pieces of successful retention strategies that business leaders must implement for sustainable organizational growth. Follow along as Carrie and Dr. Kent explore the significance of processes, accountability, structures of success for today’s workforce.ย 
Podcast
What does it take to create a thriving company culture and foster employee growth? It starts with investing in your people. When you prioritize the development and well-being of your team members, the benefits extend far beyond the success of your business. You create a positive impact in the world, one that can ripple outwards and touch countless lives.ย Our latest episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles features an inspiring conversation with Will Grindle, CEO of ASCEND Wireless Networks. As a faith-based leader, Will Grindle understands the value of investing in his employees and creating a space for his team to feel valued, heard and supported. His approach to servant leadership emphasizes transparency, vulnerability and empathy.
Podcast
In today’s fast-paced telecommunications industry, companies are constantly looking for ways to grow their business and stay ahead of the competition. In this episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, we sit down with Joe Cecin, CEO of Ontivity, a national-scale network services provider, to discuss his company’s approach to mergers and acquisitions and how they are building a unified corporate culture to help facilitate growth.ย Joe shares his insights on the current state of the telecommunications industry, strategies for talent acquisition and retention, and how Ontivity is diversifying its business through targeted M&A. He also discusses the importance of company culture and finding the right fit when considering potential acquisition targets.ย 
Podcast
In today’s digital age, technology can often overshadow the human element in business. But what if the key to success lies in putting people first? Join Carrie Charles andย Robert Hessel, CEO ofย Source 1 Solutions, for a thought-provoking and engaging conversation on the role of human connection in driving business success.ย In this episode, Carrie and Robert discuss the value of partnerships, customer loyalty, and attracting and retaining talent in the new world of work. With over 25 years in business management, Robert’s leadership strategy focuses on strong business relationships to stay competitive in the digital world.
Podcast
Success in the world of technology requires not just innovation, but also strategic partnerships, skilled negotiations, and a relentless pursuit of growth. It’s about having the right people, the right intentions, and always staying relevant in an ever-changing landscape. In this episode of 5G Talent Talk with Carrie Charles, we’re joined by Paul Ruppert, a Harvard graduate, skilled negotiator, CPaaS veteran, and holder of two tech patents. Paul shares his secrets to scaling startups from zero to billion-dollar valuations, including how to negotiate high-stakes deals, build strategic partnerships, and stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, adapting to new technologies, and always looking for ways to improve your skills. Tune in and learn from Paul how to drive growth and succeed in the world of technology.
Podcast
Traditionally speaking, the telecommunications industry has been male-dominated with C-suite and corporate board room positions filled predominantly by men. But for women in telecom, this doesn’t mean that the C-Suite is out of reach. Joining host Carrie Charles for this episode of 5G Talent Talk is Eugina Jordan, CMO ofย Telecom Infra Project, to discuss her journey on climbing that corporate ladder and breaking into the C-Suite.ย 
Podcast
Joining host Carrie Charles on today’s episode of 5G Talent Talk isย Leticia Latino Van-Splunteren, CEO ofย Neptuno USA. Together, they explore the way 5G technology is transforming the telecom industry and discuss the challenges and opportunities for building a talented and diverse workforce in this rapidly evolving field.ย In this episode, you’ll learn about the key skills and knowledge that are in high demand for 5G jobs, the role of lifelong learning in building a successful career in telecom, and the importance of mentorship and collaboration for advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In this episode, Leticia shares her insights on how companies can attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive market, and why embracing innovation is essential for staying ahead in the fast-paced world of 5G.
Podcast
As we head further into 2023, new trends come surfing in the telecom industry. In such an ever-changing landscape, how does a company meet the changing needs of its clients? In this episode, Chad Rasmussen, President and CEO of Y-COM, discusses his unique approach to paving the way for the future of telecom. He shares how Y-COM has evolved to stay ahead of the curve, connecting the dots between the trends and providing cutting-edge solutions to their clients. He discusses how Y-COM navigates the challenging labor market to recruit and retain top talent. Do you want to hear more about the latest trends and future outlook of the telecom industry? Tune in to this episode to hear Y-COM’s role in shaping the future of connectivity with Chad Rasmussen.
Podcast
To stay competitive and successful in our new world of work, business leaders must develop a company culture of positivity and productivity.ย Joining Carrie Charles today is Claudia Chan, leadership speaker and culture change expert. In this thought-provoking episode, Carrie and Claudia discuss the challenges many business leaders are facing in developing company culture, and explore the strategies and solutions needed for success.ย In this dynamic conversation, they tackle discussions of diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging in the workplace, delving into the importance of elevating women into leadership positions, the future of remote work, and engaging the next generation of employees. This episode is a must-listen for leaders who want to stay ahead of the curve in our ever-evolving world of work. Listen along for valuable insights on developing a culture that supports growth and innovation to thrive for the next decade.
Podcast
Bluebird Network is a fiber services company that focuses on providing services to the commercial and carrier market in Missouri, Illinois, and the nine surrounding states. Heading this Midwestern provider is Michael Morey, once an aspiring volcanologist who found his way to telecommunications. After years of working for a telecom giant, Michael founded his own startup. He is responsible for starting and growing multiple companies as well. In this conversation, Michael shares a couple of his secret tricks and strategies that he used to help companies grow and generate revenue. He also talks about the company culture at Bluebird that is anchored on four key values. There is a lot more lessons to glean from this industry veteran. Join in and get some!
Podcast
Technological innovation has immensely helped turn the impossible possible. In this episode, Carrie Charles sits with Tony Grayson, the General Manager of Compass Datacenters, to have a future-forward chat on data infrastructures and technology and what they can offer on sustainability. The two discuss the factors slowing the expansion of 5G, the digital divide and the expansion of broadband network accessibility in rural areas, and the future of the edge for telecom. Finally, Tony shares his wisdom on strategies that leaders must take as the workforce continues to change. Tune in to this conversation to gain more insights about technology, sustainability, and leadership.
Whitepaper
Explore how Generative AI is transforming telecom infrastructure by solving critical industry challenges like massive data management, network optimization, and personalized customer experiences. This whitepaper offers in-depth insights into AI and Gen AI's role in boosting operational efficiency while ensuring security and regulatory compliance. Telecom operators can harness these AI-driven...
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Whitepaper
The whitepaper, "How Is Generative AI Optimizing Operational Efficiency and Assurance," provides an in-depth exploration of how Generative AI is transforming the telecom industry. It highlights how AI-driven solutions enhance customer support, optimize network performance, and drive personalized marketing strategies. Additionally, the whitepaper addresses the challenges of integrating AI into...
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Article & Insights
This article explores the deployment of 5G NR Transparent Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), detailing the architecture's advantages and challenges. It highlights how this "bent-pipe" NTN approach integrates ground-based gNodeB components with NGSO satellite constellations to expand global connectivity. Key challenges like moving beam management, interference mitigation, and latency are discussed, underscoring...

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