WWLF News and Annoucements

On February 18, 2026, the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) proudly hosted a Telecom Trailblazers event at the Verizon Center for Technology and Policy, welcoming 30 students from Jackson-Reed High School for an immersive introduction to the world of digital infrastructure.

Special thanks to our program sponsor, American Tower, lunch sponsor SBA Communications and our event host, Verizon Wireless — including Yenal Tucker and Megan Torres — whose support made this experience possible.

From the start, the energy in the room was undeniable.

The day opened with AI, Policy & Innovation: The Legal Voices Powering the Future of Connectivity, a dynamic panel featuring moderator Lynn Whitcher (MD7), Michele Cober (Verizon), Angela Floyd (Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP), and Madeline Sorg (WIA). These leaders gave students a firsthand look at how law, policy, and advocacy shape the connected world — and why digital infrastructure matters more than ever.

Students then participated in interactive workshops designed to make telecom tangible and personal.

In Branding Your Strengths: Building a Professional Brand at Any Age, Jennifer Winters (Motive Infrastructure) and Rachel Metzler (WWLF) led a powerful, affirming exercise where students identified their strengths and practiced articulating them with confidence. As participants stepped into the role of “cheerleader” for one another, the room filled with encouragement — a reminder that leadership begins with recognizing and owning your value.

In The Business of Connectivity: Why Telecom Drives Innovation, Nichole Thomas (SBA) and Kelly Alberta (American Tower) broke down the many forms of wireless infrastructure and challenged students to imagine the vast range of careers that make connectivity possible.

Throughout the day, Talisha Germain (RFI Industries), Taylor Weltmeyer (eX2 Technology), and Kristen Beyer (First Tyr Solutions LLC) provided mentorship and small-group discussions, deepening student engagement and connection.

The experience concluded with a facility tour, where students explored the history of telecommunications through immersive displays, including an eight-foot-wide city model, fiber and tower installations, and real-world industry applications. They saw firsthand how telecom and AI infrastructure power innovation across every sector of our economy.

These programs matter.

Telecom Trailblazers connects students to opportunity, representation, and possibility. By combining real-world exposure, mentorship, and hands-on learning, we are building awareness of the critical role digital infrastructure plays — and inspiring the next generation of leaders who will shape it.

Telecom Trailblazers events are held nationwide, creating meaningful opportunities for companies, professionals, and community leaders to get involved.

If you are passionate about developing future talent, advancing digital infrastructure, and investing in programs that create lasting impact, we invite you to join us.

Let’s build what’s next — together.

Industry Conferences in 2026: Why Showing Up Matters More Than Ever

As we move through 2026, our industry is navigating a season of recalibration. With recent layoffs, restructuring, and shifting capital priorities across the wireless and infrastructure landscape, the emphasis has sharpened: grow stronger network partnerships, recruit top-tier talent, and build resilient, forward-thinking teams.

In times like these, industry conferences are not optional — they are strategic.

They are where relationships are rebuilt.
They are where new partnerships are formed.
They are where future leaders quietly emerge.

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that proximity matters. Conversations matter. Being in the room matters.

The Power of Strategic Networking

Conferences are not just about exchanging business cards — they are about expanding your circle of influence. The people you need to know are in these rooms. Carrier leaders. Municipal decision-makers. Strategic partners. Rising innovators.

Seek, and you will find.

The most successful professionals approach conferences with intention. They research who will be there. They schedule meetings in advance. They introduce themselves to speakers. They ask thoughtful questions.

In a competitive and evolving market, your network is one of your greatest assets. Conferences accelerate that growth exponentially.

Learning From — and Becoming — Thought Leaders

Every panel discussion, keynote, and breakout session is an opportunity to listen, learn, and challenge your own perspective. The most impactful leaders are not the ones who talk the most — they are the ones who listen well and synthesize insight into action.

Ask yourself:
Have you ever considered that you might be a thought leader?

Conferences are often where that realization begins. You see gaps in conversation. You identify emerging trends before they are widely adopted. You recognize opportunities to contribute in meaningful ways.

Perhaps this is the year you step forward — submit to speak, join a panel, moderate a discussion, or publish your perspective. Our industry needs experienced voices willing to share lessons learned and inspire the next generation.

The Irreplaceable Value of Face-to-Face Engagement

There is a distinct difference between a virtual meeting and a face-to-face conversation.

When you sit across from someone, actively listening, asking questions, and engaging in real-time dialogue, ideas spark. New solutions emerge. Collaboration deepens.

Often, it’s in the informal hallway conversations, the post-panel discussions, or the networking receptions where the most transformative ideas take shape. A single conversation can inspire a new process, a strategic pivot, or the confidence to take action in your organization.

In-person engagement creates energy — and energy drives momentum.

Investing in Your Future — and Your Team’s

There is growing literature reinforcing what many of us already know through experience: conferences are not expenses; they are investments.

They accelerate professional development.
They strengthen recruitment pipelines.
They enhance brand visibility.
They position organizations as active, engaged industry contributors.

In a market where talent is selective and partnerships are strategic, being present signals stability, leadership, and long-term vision. When you send team members to conferences, you are not only expanding their knowledge — you are empowering them, retaining them, and preparing them for greater responsibility.

The return on investment is often intangible in the moment — but transformative over time.

A Call to Action for 2026

Conference season is more than a calendar of events. It is an opportunity to reset, reconnect, and reimagine what is possible for yourself and your organization.

Show up with intention.
Engage with curiosity.
Listen deeply.
Speak boldly.

This is the year to strengthen partnerships, recruit exceptional talent, and position yourself — and your company — as a leader in a changing landscape.

Your next opportunity, partnership, hire, or breakthrough idea may be one conversation away.

Make sure you are in the room.

If you’ve recently been laid off, or if you’ve been searching longer than you ever imagined, hear me when I say this: you will rise from this transition stronger than before.

This is not the end of your story.
It’s a reset.
A recalibration.
And for many people, an unexpected opening.

Momentum matters. The moment you start taking intentional action, clarity begins to show up. Confidence returns. Opportunities start to surface.

Here are ten power moves I see work again and again in today’s job market.

1. Start Immediately and Treat Your Search Like a Full Time Job

Waiting makes this harder. Start now, even if the steps feel small.

Update your resume.
Reach out to one person.
Share one insight on LinkedIn.
Small actions create momentum, and momentum brings clarity.

Create structure so the search doesn’t overwhelm you.
Mornings for applications and follow up.
Midday for learning and skill development.
Afternoons for networking and outreach.

Structure creates stability when everything else feels uncertain.

2. Build a LinkedIn Strategy That Makes You Impossible to Ignore

LinkedIn is your visibility engine. Treat it like your personal brand platform.

Optimize your profile for clarity and impact

• Use a current, professional photo
• Replace “Open to Work” with a value-driven headline
• Add real metrics and results to every role
• Rewrite your summary so it reflects who you are and where you’re headed

Show up consistently so your name becomes familiar

• Comment thoughtfully on industry content
• Engage with leaders and companies you care about
• Share insights, lessons, and observations from your experience
• Add substance, not “great post” comments

Add real value in every interaction

• Offer perspective that elevates the conversation
• Ask smart, thoughtful questions
• Share context or insight from your experience
• Become known for adding value, not noise

Use engagement as a visibility multiplier

• Post content that showcases your expertise
• Share reflections on leadership, growth, or transition
• Comment on trends in your industry
• Be authentic, clear, and professional

Leverage LinkedIn tools

• Click “I’m Interested” on target company pages
• Follow companies you want to work for
• Join conversations already happening in your space

Your profile helps people find you.
Your engagement helps people remember you.
Your value is what gets you chosen.

3. Create a Strategic Hit List

Stop applying everywhere. Focus.

Make a list of:

• Twenty people who will actually respond to you
• Ten companies you would truly love to work for
• The real decision makers, often the leader who would be your boss’s boss

This becomes your roadmap.
Your strategy.
Your filter.

4. Use Informational Interviews to Expand Your Opportunities

Informational interviews are quiet power.

They help you understand roles, industries, and company cultures.
They build real relationships.
And they often lead to referrals and unposted opportunities.

People want to help someone who is curious, prepared, and sincere.

5. Build a Daily Outreach Rhythm

Opportunity loves consistency.

Every day:

• Reconnect with a former colleague
• Introduce yourself to a leader
• Follow up with a hiring manager

These small, steady touches compound quickly and often lead to breakthroughs.

6. Reach Out Directly to Recruiters and Hiring Managers

Do not wait to be noticed. Take the lead.

Send a brief message explaining why you’re a strong match and ask for a short conversation.
Be confident.
Be respectful.

Initiative stands out in a crowded market.

7. Get In the Room Whenever You Can

Some opportunities do not live online.

Attend industry meetups, conferences, workshops, and in-person events.
People remember conversations.
They remember energy.
They remember presence.

Your next opportunity may be standing right in front of you.

8. Lean On References and Strengthen Your LinkedIn Recommendations

Your references and recommendations speak when you’re not in the room.
Reach out to leaders, colleagues, and clients who truly know your work.
Ask for fresh recommendations that reflect your strengths and impact.
Social proof builds immediate trust.

9. Invest in Reskilling and Upskilling Including AI

Growth is one of your greatest advantages.

Build AI literacy.
Explore emerging technologies.
Take courses in cloud, cybersecurity, analytics, or project management.

Upskilling signals adaptability, curiosity, and readiness for what’s next.

10. Consider Contract Work, Volunteering, Freelancing, or Starting a Business

If a door closed, maybe you’re meant to build something new.

Contract work keeps you active and visible.
Freelancing reveals strengths you didn’t know you had.
Volunteering expands your network.

Many successful businesses begin in seasons exactly like this.

Final Thought

Your job search is not just about getting hired.
It’s about rediscovering your voice, your confidence, and your direction.

You are not starting over.
You are starting from experience.

Stay visible.
Stay connected.
Stay courageous.

Your next opportunity might be one conversation, one message, or one moment of visibility away!

In 2023, a respected leader at my previous company encouraged me to explore WWLF after I shared my desire to grow within the telecommunications industry. As I learned more about the organization and its programs, the Fellowship Program immediately stood out. I applied for 2024, hopeful—but not selected—and instead was matched with my WWLF Mentor, Carolyn Hardwick. What initially felt like a setback became one of the most meaningful professional relationships I’ve had.

After a year of mentorship, growth, and a major career transition, Carolyn encouraged me to apply again, knowing it would be my final year of eligibility. I’m incredibly grateful I did.

The Fellowship Program kicked-off with a call from Talisha Germain (Fellowship Program Executive Director), who assured me she would support me every step of the way—and she truly did. Through countless conversations, check-ins, and even outfit texts, Talisha helped set me up for a successful Connect(X), making what could have been an overwhelming experience feel intentional and empowering.

The access and conversations I had through WWLF were unlike anything I had experienced before. I met fellow WWLF Board Members in person and had meaningful discussions with WIA leadership, including Patrick Halley, Mike Saperstein, April Ward, and Deb Bennett. Each took the time to answer my questions and share insight into areas of the industry I’m deeply interested in -- conversations that simply wouldn’t have happened without this program.

I also spent time learning from WWLF Board Members who openly shared how they prepare for events, make strategic introductions, and show up as leaders. Watching them operate with confidence, generosity, and purpose was incredibly inspiring.

The mentoring sessions with Anissa Latif Green (Fellowship Program Mentor) and Dr. Tameka Ellington (Professional Development Coach) were another unexpected gift. Unsure how to focus our time, I decided to split my approach: professional development with Anissa and personal growth with Dr. Ellington. While distinct, those conversations often overlapped in powerful ways. Their guidance, recommended reading, and the time they invested in me will have a lasting impact far beyond this year.

I entered the Fellowship Program with an open mind, unsure of what to expect. I’m leaving it more confident, more connected, and deeply grateful. This experience has shaped both my career and personal growth, and it’s one I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Michelle Floyd

Hello WWLF Members;

It is hard to believe that another year is ending. I do not know about you, but, for me, they are passing by a lot faster these days.

2025 has been a busy year for WWLF and the industry in general. It seems like just yesterday that the new WWLF Board was installed and began their two (2) year term. They accomplished so much in their first year! Their success wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our wonderful sponsors, both annual and event and our dedicated and very capable volunteers!

As a member of WWLF ELT, and in my capacity of Treasurer, I would like to personally thank all of our sponsors since, without you, WWLF would not have been able to have, as Taylor stated last month, an “incredibly energizing” year. You provided WWLF with the ability to conduct all of the wonderful programs and events that took place in 2025. Your continued support through our new and improved Annual Sponsorship drive, which will be launched soon, will allow us to grow and provide even bigger and better programs in 2026.

WWLF is a volunteer organization, so my gratitude also goes out to all of the fabulous women that have chosen to devote their precious time and energy to ensuring that we succeed. These incredibly talented, energetic and dedicated women take time out of their days/weeks to deliver the programs you have benefited from this year. I applaud their success!

Last, but definitely not least, I want to thank you, the WWLF members, for choosing us as an organization that you want to associate with and support. We look forward to providing you with even more content and opportunities in 2026. WWLF wants its members to be engaged, so we encourage you to participate in as many events and webinars as possible. We also welcome your suggestions for educational (education@wwlf.org) and event (events@wwlf.org) content, which you can submit using the email addresses provided.

Thank you everyone for making WWLF such a success in 2025! I deeply appreciate everyone and everything that has taken place is this last year. I look forward to an even more exciting and rewarding 2026.

My sincere thanks and gratitude! Have a safe and Happy New Year!!

Michelle Salisbury
WWLF Treasurer

On November 5th, Telecom Trailblazers welcomed over 40 high school students from across the San Francisco Bay Area for an immersive day at the Verizon Edge and AI Innovation Lab. Students gained hands-on exposure to telecommunications, IoT, and AI technologies shaping the way the world communicates and operates.

The event was generously sponsored by American Tower and hosted by Verizon, giving students unique access to industry leaders through engaging panels:

Fireside Chat: How AI & Connectivity Power Our World Moderated by Lynn Whitcher (Executive Directors of Programs, Telecom Trailblazers), featuring Eric McClanahan (Verizon) and Zain Admani (Inorsa). Panelists discussed practical applications of AI, from real-time data analysis to network optimization and highlighted the critical role of connectivity in powering smart cities, IoT devices, and emerging technologies.

Career Pathways Panel Discussion Moderated by Taylor Weltmeyer-Sierra (WWLF Vice President), with panelists Jessica Turner (American Tower), Talisha Germain (RF Industries / WWLF), and Jennifer Winters (Motive Infrastructure / WWLF) sharing insights on career opportunities in telecom, technology, and infrastructure.

Students also explored an immersive lab experience, working with cutting-edge technologies like private 5G, real-time AI inference, robotics, and AR/VR, seeing firsthand how modern communication networks operate and how AI optimizes infrastructure workflows.

Telecom Trailblazers continues its mission to educate, inspire, and connect the next generation of innovators, providing students from diverse backgrounds with early exposure to the telecommunications and technology industries.

The next event will be held at the Verizon Policy Lab in Washington, DC, on February 18th, 2026.

Get Involved: Interested in participating, hosting, or sponsoring a Telecom Trailblazers event? Contact Talisha Germain & Lynn Whitcher, Executive Directors of Programs, at telecomtrailblazers@wwlf.org.

Hello WWLF Members,

I hope this message finds you well and that you enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving. As we enter the final month of 2025, I want to extend warm wishes for a blessed and joyful holiday season.

This has been an incredibly energizing year for WWLF, and together we continue to build meaningful momentum—strengthening programs, deepening partnerships, and expanding our vibrant community.

In mid-September, many of our members participated in the Women of NATE Summit, both as speakers and attendees. This event showcased the strength, expertise, and leadership of women across our industry—each one raising the bar for themselves and their organizations.

Another standout this quarter was our Telecom Trailblazers Program. In late September, we hosted one of our largest student-focused events at RF Industries, welcoming more than 60 students who explored how STEM connects to telecommunications and impacts daily life. In early November, we continued this momentum with a remarkable Trailblazers event hosted at the Verizon Innovation Lab in San Francisco. This program brought together industry leaders for an immersive experience, featuring cutting-edge demonstrations and a fireside chat—including a panelist joining via hologram—highlighting the future of connectivity and innovation in our field.

From our November 14 annual networking celebration in South Florida—hosted in partnership with the Society of Cable Telecommunication Engineers at the Inter Miami CF Experience Center—to our many regional engagements this year, we are grateful for the strong participation and enthusiasm from our members.

As we move into the final stretch of the year, we invite you to stay connected through our December 8 “Motivation and Mugs” morning virtual networking session, where we’ll continue to foster meaningful connections, leadership development, and industry insight.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to close out the year with continued engagement and the upcoming release of our 2026 Annual Sponsorship Opportunities, which will be opening very soon.

I’m grateful for all we’ve accomplished together in 2025 and inspired by what’s to come. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to connect or get more involved with WWLF.

Warm regards,
Taylor Weltmeyer - Sierra
Vice President WWLF
Program Manager eX2

Originally published September 18, 2025

Infrastructure deserves influence.

Six months ago, I entered a world I knew almost nothing about—telecom and digital infrastructure. I didn’t come from a technical background, and I wasn’t sure how I’d fit into a space filled with engineers, field crews, and legacy systems.

But I was curious. And I asked a lot of questions.

“I’ve had the privilege of starting my telecom journey with FiberCom Engineering, SkyCom Engineering, and SkyWare — three companies that are deeply committed to building smarter infrastructure and empowering the people behind it. From drone-enabled field solutions to AI-powered permitting automation, their mission is clear: to modernize the way infrastructure is deployed and maintained. But what’s made the biggest impact on me is their investment in people — fostering a culture of innovation, mentorship, and real support for their employees.”

Today, as the Executive Projects & Communications Lead for FiberCom Engineering, I’ve learned more than I expected—not just about networks and permitting, but about leadership, innovation, and the power of collaboration.

This isn’t a technical breakdown. It’s a reflection on what it’s like to jump into a fast-moving, complex industry and find your footing.

Whether you're new to telecom or just curious, here are six takeaways from my first six months:

1. You Don’t Need to Know Everything to Add Value
Curiosity and communication go a long way. Thoughtful questions have helped me connect dots, translate jargon, and see the bigger picture. If you’re willing to learn, you’ll find ways to contribute beyond your job title.

2. Infrastructure Is Invisible—Until You Start Looking
Before this role, I never noticed utility poles or fiber lines. Now I see them everywhere—and understand the permitting, trenching, and ripple effects they have on daily life. There’s a real opportunity to make infrastructure visible and relatable through storytelling.

3. Content Builds Connection
Content isn’t just marketing—it’s a bridge. Sharing our work through posts, videos, or podcasts has sparked conversations and created new relationships. In a legacy industry, fresh voices can make a big impact.

4. Relationships Drive Everything
From permitting to project delivery, collaboration is key. A single conversation can unlock a partnership or shift a strategy. Strong relationships are the foundation of forward progress.

5. AI Isn’t Just a Buzzword—It’s Solving Real Problems
Working with SkyWare has shown me how AI is transforming workflows—automating permitting, improving compliance, and saving hours of manual work. This is real innovation, and it’s already here.

6. The Best Leaders Are Great Listeners
The most impactful leaders I’ve met listen deeply, stay curious, and make space for others to contribute. Their trust and encouragement have helped me grow faster and lead with confidence.

Final Thought
Telecom and infrastructure are evolving rapidly—and there’s room for new energy, ideas, and voices. If you’re curious about this space, don’t wait for permission. Ask questions. Show up. You might be surprised where it takes you.

The telecommunications industry is at a pivotal moment of transformation. With the rapid expansion of 5G, fiber optics, data centers, and energy infrastructure, industries are converging, creating new opportunities for professionals with network expertise. The same skills developed in wireless telecommunications—including network engineering and infrastructure deployment are now driving advancements in electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, smart grids, and renewable energy integration.

For women in these industries, this shift presents a chance to expand their expertise, step into leadership roles, and shape the future of both connectivity and energy.

Bridging the Skills Gap in a Converging Industry

The demand for skilled professionals in telecommunications, fiber optics, cloud infrastructure, and energy networks is greater than ever. As 5G and broadband networks scale alongside the rapid deployment of EV infrastructure and intelligent power grids, companies are seeking experts who understand network automation, cloud-based monitoring, and real-time data processing. However, women remain underrepresented in these fields (Spencer Stuart).

To bridge this gap, industry leaders are investing in targeted training programs in fiber optics, cloud computing, smart grid technology, and EV infrastructure development. Women with a background in wireless and broadband have a unique advantage—the ability to transition their expertise into high-growth fields that are shaping the future of infrastructure and energy management.

Harnessing Technology to Advance Inclusion

As automation, AI, and digital tools transform how telecommunications and energy networks are managed, they are also breaking down barriers for women. Remote monitoring, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based collaboration have made technical roles more accessible. The expansion of networked EV charging stations, smart energy storage, and 5G-enabled automation has created new career pathways in sectors that were once dominated by traditional engineering disciplines (McKinsey & Company).

By positioning themselves at the forefront of these emerging technologies, women can not only participate in but lead the evolution of next-generation infrastructure.

Building Inclusive Workplaces for Sustainable Growth

For women to fully capitalize on these opportunities, workplaces must foster a culture of inclusion. More companies across telecommunications, data centers, and energy infrastructure are recognizing that diversity drives innovation. Policies that encourage mentorship, leadership development, and flexible work models are key to attracting and retaining top talent (The Times UK).

Employers must go beyond simply implementing these policies—they must actively support women in advancing to executive roles, project leadership, and technical innovation. By ensuring women are at the forefront of infrastructure expansion, the industry can build a workforce that is as diverse as the technologies shaping its future.

A Call to Action

As a member of the Women in Wireless Leadership Foundation (WWLF), you have the opportunity to shape the future of telecommunications, energy, and infrastructure. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting your career, now is the time to embrace the expanding landscape of technology and sustainability.

Invest in new skills, advocate for inclusive workplace policies, and mentor the next generation of women entering these fields. By doing so, you can help build a smarter, more sustainable, and more connected world (Monster Hiring Guide, Inspyr Solutions).

What’s your experience in this evolving industry? Share your insights with WWLF, and let’s continue to inspire and empower one another.

Stephanie Whitlock
WWLF Newsletter Editor

Maximizing Your Professional Growth: The Benefits of Attending Industry Conferences

As conference season approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the invaluable opportunities these events offer for professional growth, networking, and staying informed on industry advancements.

Industry conferences serve as a key platform for expanding your knowledge, building meaningful connections, and positioning yourself as a leader in your field.

The Power of Networking

One of the primary benefits of attending conferences is the opportunity to network. These events bring together professionals, experts, and potential collaborators, creating a dynamic environment for forming valuable relationships that can lead to new partnerships, mentorships, or career advancements.

Gaining Cutting-Edge Insights

Conferences provide a unique chance to learn about the latest innovations, tools, and best practices through engaging workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches. Staying informed about emerging trends ensures you remain at the forefront of your industry and can implement new ideas with confidence.

The Impact of Face-to-Face Engagement

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of in-person conferences is the ability to engage in face-to-face interactions. These personal connections foster deeper collaborations, more productive discussions, and long-lasting professional relationships—benefits that virtual meetings often struggle to replicate.

Investing in Your Future

With so many advantages, attending industry conferences is a powerful way to invest in your career, gain fresh perspectives, and expand your professional horizons. Whether you’re looking to grow your expertise, connect with like-minded professionals, or explore new opportunities, these events provide an invaluable experience that can propel your career forward.

Make the most of conference season and seize the opportunity to enhance your professional journey!

Thank you,

Taylor Sierra
Project Manager of Fiber Operations and Government Affairs Specialist
NEBRASKA - IOWA
Nextlink