Good Bye WISPA, Hello Future
It has been an extremely busy year and I recently realized I hadn't posted to my blog since my first post in May. I just took time to read "Goodbye Old Barn". I had no idea I would be saying "Goodbye WISPA" just seven months later. I challenge my successors to take care of this great organization. I do not want to witness similar results as I have seen with my previous creations. (refer to Goodbye Old Barn).
My final legacy for WISPA, its members and administrative team has be my diligent push to streamline our administrative database, billing and website tools into one platform. A platform that will allow member individuals and visitors to more easily manage their WISPA experience. A platform which will promote the industry and our member businesses with new website functionality and a new look. A platform which our members and new visitors can register for WISPA conferences, meetings and membership in the same location. A platform where individuals and companies can manage their demographics, employee records, and registrations with one login. A platform which combines three previous databases into one, so all membership records are consistent across the board and minimizes administrative functions. Most of all, a platform which will strengthen the WISP industry community. While I'll be gone before the final product is released, I challenge the team working on it, to pick up the ball where I leave off and finish it well.
It's unbelievable I have met, worked, debated and played with so many great people in the last 11 years. I am truly a lucky man to have had this experience. There isn't enough virtual paper to thank everyone who has helped me along this journey. While I have met thousands of visionaries, entrepreneurs and hard-working people, I would be dismiss if I didn't mention a few of my closest friends and those who showed the utmost respect and confidence in my abilities to lead WISPA the past 6 years. I can only hope the future holds the same opportunities.
Thank you John Scrivner! John was the strong base WISPA's foundation needed back in 2004. He was the strong-willed leader with dreams he was determined to carry out. These dreams were not selfish dreams, but altruistic visions for a united industry. The industry was built by independent thinking entrepreneurs cooperating together building a strong, unified and common-sense voice with the intent of lobbying a corrupt telecommunication industry, the regulators and politicians in Washington DC. John was the first President of WISPA, a honorable man and a great friend.
Thank you Matt Larsen! Matt was the rebel, thought provoker and voice which shook the industry and challenged the members to revolt against the status quo in the telecommunication industry. Matt was a founding member, first Vice-President, second President and was involved at the Board level for at least 9 years. He earned the title of "Wireless Cowboy" through his talented writing and speaking skills and his enviable ability to challenge the large phone companies. He is also one of my closest friends and allies during this journey.
Thank you Jack Unger! The father of the WISP industry. Jack's knowledge of RF, FCC doctrine, dynamically changing RF/IP technology have been unmatched. His desire to teach and his writing talents have educated those thirsty to learn how to provide wireless broadband worldwide. Jack's a past WISPA Board
secretary, FCC Committee Chairman and currently works passionately writing. editing and polishing WISPA FCC filings. Jack is the soft spoken, level headed thinker who challenges deep thought on topics which affect the industry. His services have been invaluable and under appreciated.
Thank you Elizabeth Bowles! The fourth WISPA President, who served 3 terms. Her confidence in my abilities to take the lead as Executive Director and to act as my sounding board for advise was undeniably valuable. During her tenure, we created two annual conferences which continue to grow; we increased membership 3x's; and we raised revenues 6x's. Elizabeth continues to serve the industry as Legislative Committee Chairperson. She has testified at Congress with dignity and continues to strengthen WISPA's credibility and impact in Washington DC.
Thank you Mac Dearman, Butch Evans, Steve Coran, Lee Loker, Travis Johnson, Gino Villarini, Charles Wu, Chuck McCown, Jeff Kohler, JC Utter, Jeff Broadwick, Brian Webster, Jim Patient and many others who have been my friends and confidants along the way. Your efforts to promote and improve the wisp industry have been so important.
And thank you mostly to the thousands of members for whom I have served, it has been a pleasure. Your support has been instrumental in WISPA's success. You the members, own WISPA. You have respectfully supported our efforts with your hard-earned dollars. You have developed a knowledge sharing community, which has taken on the challenge of expanding broadband access across all areas of the country. It is your duty to carry on this legacy and support the current and future Board of Directors.
Mostly, thank you to my very patient and beautiful wife Sandi and my three beautiful daughters who have grown up this last decade. The sacrifices they made so I might pursue my WISPA mission is appreciated so much. I love you all.
I hope my next journey enables me to continue to bring future opportunities to this great community. I will never forget this last decade of awesome experiences. I wish for success for your businesses and lives. Happy Holidays and have a great year in 2015!
Where there is a WISP, there is a Way! Carry on.
Sad to see you go, Rick!
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