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In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, broadcasts live from the Mid-American Telecom Seminar and Showcase (M.A.T.S.S.) in Kansas City. This event brings together manufacturers, providers, and customers to explore the latest trends and innovations in broadband and telecommunications. Tim is joined by special guest Gene Hamilton, Plant Manager at Columbus Telephone, a valued CBM partner.
Gene offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local telecom providers, discussing their vital role in community development and the evolving broadband landscape. Whether you're in the industry or simply curious about the future of connectivity, this episode provides valuable insights into the broadband industry's present and future.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, broadcasts live from the Mid-American Telecom Seminar and Showcase (MATSS) in Kansas City. Tim brings insights from this key industry event, featuring expert perspectives and valuable discussions about the latest developments and trends in broadband and telecommunications. Special guest Brendan O'Boyle joins the conversation, sharing his expertise and thoughts on the current landscape and future of network technology.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Billy Lao, the General Manager and CEO of DILO and DILO Direct Companies. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Billy shares insights into his journey, the evolving landscape of utilities, and the challenges and opportunities he has encountered along the way. This episode is filled with valuable advice for industry professionals and those interested in the future of the industry.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Chris Barr, an industry innovator from Communication Innovators based in Pleasant Hill, Iowa. Chris shares his experiences and passion for mentoring others and how he has dedicated much of his career to uplifting those around him. His enthusiasm for helping people grow and his positive outlook are truly inspiring. Whether you're in the broadband industry or just someone who loves stories about leadership and personal development, Chris's insights will leave a lasting impression.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, Tim Locker, Vice President of Broadband at CBM, sits down with Jake Irwin, Senior District Sales Manager at Dura-Line, to discuss the changing landscape of the telecom industry. With over four years of experience at Dura-Line, Jake has swiftly climbed the ranks, earning respect for his leadership and sales skills. Together, they explore the generational shifts in the workforce, the impact of younger talent in telecom, and the evolution of industry technologies. Jake shares valuable insights on building confidence in a fast-paced environment, fostering strong customer relationships, and the importance of continuously seeking new opportunities.
Listeners will also hear about the challenges and opportunities that come with microtechnology, micro-trenching, and the role Dura-Line Academy plays in educating the next generation of industry professionals.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker is joined by Sean Vanslyke, CEO of Southeast Missouri Power Cooperative (SEMO). Sean shares his unique perspective on leadership, transparency, and the power of authenticity. He discusses the impact of his "Friday Feature" initiative, a weekly message he began during the COVID-19 pandemic to help people stay motivated and connected. Sean also touches on his commitment to creating a positive workplace culture, where employees feel proud of their organization and are encouraged to grow and learn continuously.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of "Power the Network," host Tim Locker interviews Julie Fitzgerald, Director of Agents for Siemens Energy, about her 35-year journey in the male-dominated electric utility industry. Julie shares her experiences, the challenges she faced as a woman in leadership, and the evolving dynamics of diversity and inclusivity in the field. She emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments that value diverse perspectives and the need for both men and women to work together toward shared goals. Julie also discusses her leadership philosophy, which centers on clear communication, mutual respect, and empowering her team to take responsibility for their own career paths.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode, the conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities in the electrical distribution industry. Our guest, Jim Lucy, shares insights on the current trends impacting the market, from the effects of economic changes to the growing importance of technology and digital transformation. The discussion touches on the role of distributors in adapting to these shifts, as well as the significance of partnerships and collaboration across the industry. Emphasis is placed on the need for innovation and agility to navigate the evolving landscape successfully.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode, host Tim Locker interviews Dan Brewer, VP of IT at Wilson Logistics. Dan has a long career in IT, starting as a contractor doing low voltage cabling before moving into helping build one of the first metro ethernet networks in the 90s. He then spent 15 years at SpringNet before moving to healthcare, where he led a 14 year project to overhaul the network infrastructure for a large hospital system. Dan is now bringing his expertise to bear in the trucking industry, helping implement new technologies like electronic logs, cameras, and mobile broadband to trucks to improve efficiency, safety, and driver experience. Key topics covered include the evolution of IT in trucking, use of telematics and AI for fleet management, driver retention challenges, building a new smart HQ campus, and the importance of constantly learning and mentoring young IT professionals. Dan provides an insightful look into how IT is transforming transportation.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode, host Tim Locker interviews Levi Bappe, the general manager of Huxley Communications, a local telephone company serving small towns in Iowa. They discuss Huxley's history with fiber-to-the-home, which they were early adopters of in Iowa back in 2002. Levi talks about their philosophy of not requiring customers to bundle phone service if they only want broadband. He shares how they aim to provide excellent local customer service with quick response times compared to larger companies. Levi also discusses their recent office move into a new building to bring all their operations under one roof, which has improved efficiency. They talk about the challenges of transitioning customers to streaming TV and the learning curve involved. Levi shares his perspective on electric vehicles as Huxley has added two EVs to their fleet. He talks about taking his first road trip in one of the EVs to get to the podcast interview and using public charging stations along the way.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network podcast, host Tim Locker interviews returning guest Chris Kurtz to discuss the security of the US power grid. They cover physical threats like weather events and terrorism, as well as cybersecurity risks. Kurtz disagrees with sensationalist claims that 90% of people would die if the grid failed, arguing humans are resilient and there are contingency plans in place. He explains there are 3 main interconnected grids in the US that can provide backup power if one goes down. After 9/11, efforts ramped up to protect grid infrastructure and utilities now regularly conduct emergency drills. Substations are being hardened with concrete walls, tougher equipment, and newer technologies like solid dielectric transformers. Most damage comes from ignorance rather than terrorism. On the cyber front, control systems are being isolated from external networks and utilities are building their own secure communication systems. Foreign actors attempt hacks daily but systems are well-protected. Overall the grid is more secure than ever due to planning, drills, equipment upgrades and advanced cyber protections.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Bob Wethington, Vice President of Marketing and Product Development at American Polymer Company (APC). APC is a new manufacturer that CBM has partnered with, and Tim was eager to learn more about the company's background, values, and product offerings.
Bob provides insight into APC's quick growth over the past few years, noting that they've focused on servicing the market and reacting quickly to meet customer needs. He emphasizes APC's commitment to quality, discussing how their enclosures are rigorously tested to meet industry standards like ANSI/SCTE 77. This ensures their products are safe, durable, and reliable for protecting utilities and assets over the long term.
Bob also talks about his diverse responsibilities at APC, including marketing, product development, and product management. He aims to educate customers and provide useful, easy-to-navigate content and products. Looking ahead, he previews an exciting new product line called Maximus HD that offers lightweight yet strong enclosures with space-saving nesting ability.
Overall, Bob conveys APC's dedication to service, quality, and performance. He explains how these values guide their hiring and culture as they continue to grow. CBM is thrilled to partner with APC and looks forward to bringing their solutions to market.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Pat Stepanek, Business Development Manager at NVent Hoffman, about automation in the industrial electrical panel industry. Pat provides an overview of Hoffman's solutions that enable panel shops to automate their manufacturing and wiring processes. He discusses Hoffman's Mod Center, a CNC machine that automates cutting and machining of electrical enclosures. The Mod Center provides significant labor savings and accuracy compared to manual methods. Pat also covers the NC Cut, which automates cutting and optimizing DIN rail, and the Personal Wiring Assistant, which automates wire harness creation. He explains how Hoffman's Design to Manufacturing software allows panel shops to digitally design panels and automatically generate outputs for the automation equipment. By enabling faster training and reducing reliance on specialized workers, these solutions help panel shops address the labor shortage. Pat shares how integrating VR can further improve training. He emphasizes that automation is providing crucial labor savings but not eliminating jobs, as many workers are shifting into programming and technician roles.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power of the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Jimmy Todd, CEO of Nex-Tech and industry leader. They discuss Jimmy's journey from wanting to be a doctor to serving in the Navy and finding his passion for technology. Jimmy took over as CEO of Nex-Tech 10 years ago and focused on learning the operations, culture and finances to determine how he could best support the strong team already in place. He believes in making changes and seeing the results rather than staying stagnant. Jimmy spends significant time advocating for legislation to get providers to contribute to infrastructure costs, especially in high-cost rural areas where streaming video is consuming more and more network capacity.
He serves on multiple industry boards to stay engaged and influence positive changes. Jimmy enjoys continuous learning and self-improvement. He discusses the importance of taking concepts from training and implementing them into habits and processes. Jimmy stresses the significance of doing what's right for customers and communities through economic development, workforce training and more. He talks about the misperception that his frequent travel is glamorous when it's truly focused on participating in board meetings and advancing his mission.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Seth Thompson from Calix about how broadband providers can differentiate themselves in a competitive market where fiber internet is now commonplace. Seth discusses the importance of building relationships in sales, focusing on customer experience, developing solutions tailored to different user personas, and effective marketing and branding. He emphasizes creating packages that demonstrate value to subscribers based on how they use internet services.
Seth also talks about the challenges in the broadband industry around finding skilled workers and contractors as well as navigating complex public and private funding processes. On a personal level, Seth shares insights on personal growth through reading and programs like Dale Carnegie training, maintaining fitness, and balancing priorities as life circumstances change.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power the Network, we interview Richard Durfee, an account manager at CBM who has been with the company for nearly 9 years. Richard shares how he got into the industry, transitioning from construction work into sales, which initially made him apprehensive. He credits his mentors like Brett Cooper for helping guide him, as well as his coworkers who he can call on for assistance.
Richard discusses the importance of building long-term relationships with customers, treating them like friends and family. He emphasizes being honest and not overpromising. Richard talks about the ESOP program at CBM which gives employees ownership stake, providing them flexibility and incentive to think about the company's long-term success. He stresses the unique collaborations they can do across divisions given the ESOP structure.
Richard shares advice for new hires to reach out for help from coworkers, ask questions, and take time to develop in their role over 2-3 years. He highlights the great team at CBM which makes work enjoyable. Richard offers perspective on balancing work and family life on the road. He gives credit to his wife for her support and guidance through the years. The key message is building relationships, providing value and service that benefits all parties for the long haul.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode, Tim Locker interviews Jade Piros de Carvalho, director
of the Kansas Office of Broadband Development. They discuss Jade's
background and how she entered the broadband industry, coming from a
marketing and communications role. She highlights the importance of
broadband access as an "opportunity equalizer", especially in rural
areas, and how the pandemic shed light on digital inequities.
Jade provides an overview of the federal BEAD (Broadband Equity Access
and Deployment) program that is providing states with funding to expand
broadband access. She explains how it is being administered differently
than past federal programs, with more state and local involvement. They
discuss some of the strings attached to the grants and how Kansas is
moving quickly to distribute funding. Jade also talks about the
Broadband Ready Communities program in Kansas that educates local
governments on how to facilitate broadband investment.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a review and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode, Damien Robinson provides an insightful look at testing
and diagnostics for utility networks. He shares valuable perspectives on
making the transition into management and building a customer-focused,
collaborative culture. Manufacturers and reps can learn a great deal
from his experiences to strengthen partnerships and better serve
customers together.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
In this episode of Power the Network, host Tim Locker interviews Shawn
Tafoya, a regional sales manager at Acuity Lighting, about the lighting
industry and Acuity's solutions. They discuss the importance of lighting
and how Acuity provides solutions across many sectors from residential
to utilities. Shawn explains the benefits of transitioning to LED
lighting, including 50% energy savings and reduced maintenance costs. He
outlines the process of changing out old streetlights to LED fixtures
and the factors municipalities must consider.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, leave a comment and subscribe so
you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. -
For more information, connect with us at cbmrep.com/contact
This is part two of Tim Locker's interview with Jason Johns, VP of Construction at Gateway Fiber. In this episode, Jason emphasizes the importance of transparency and honesty when dealing with partners and customers. He notes that finding the right employees who fit the company culture is more important than technical skills. Training field technicians to provide good customer service is critical since they represent the company directly to homeowners.
Looking ahead, workforce shortages will challenge the industry's ability to meet infrastructure targets with new government funding. However, expanded fiber networks will bring huge benefits like remote work and schooling. The podcast covers relationship building, company culture, customer service, hiring practices, and future growth opportunities in the telecom industry.
If you've enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.
Hosted by CBM's own Vice President of Broadband, Tim Locker, Power the
Network is bringing industry leaders to your feed every other week. One
minute, you'll dive deep into products and innovative new processes. The
next minute, you'll be learning timeless principles to equip you in
your career. At CBM, we are powered by ownership, and we're bringing the
same energy into podcasting with Power the Network. - Visa fler
