Gary Schmid Email & Phone Number

Hired to lead the implementation of the Network Strategy infrastructure upgrade. This project replaces leased operational communications circuits with a company owned network. The new network consists of a “Tier 1” high speed fiber and microwave backbone connecting critical locations and a “Tier 2” low speed wireless mesh network for accessing hundreds of Distribution Automation devices throughout the service area. As part of the 2014 Rate Case approved by the Public Service Commission, this $20M project is essential for Central Hudson’s Smart Grid initiative. Currently managing a team of 10 contractors and employees.• Hired and developed the core CHG&E team responsible for project implementation.• Installed and commissioned 9 microwave sites and 3 dark fiber links as part of the Tier 1 backbone network.• Designed the overall MPLS network/ IP addressing scheme and cutover MPLS routers at 19 Tier 1 locations.• Selected ABB/Tropos as the Tier 2 radio provider and finalized contract with ABB.• Successfully completed four bi-annual Public Service Commission (PSC) Milestone Tests; these tests are critical for project funding and are used by the PSC to evaluate implementation progress.• Current project expenditures of $6.6M verses PSC Rate Case funding of $6.5M - within expected guidelines.• Met 2016 goal of 200 operational Tier 2 units in the Fishkill and Kingston districts. Coordinated implementation with line crews, substation crews, contractors and suppliers.• Chair the weekly cross functional meeting keeping stakeholders informed of project status and established the strong working relationships with departments, contractors and suppliers necessary for the project’s success.

Provide strategic direction for the Operational Network (OpsNet) project developing the 5 year Implementation/Operational plan and process.

Selected to lead the implementation of the Operational Network (OpsNet) Project. Critical to NYPA’s Five Year Strategic Plan, this project will upgrade bandwidth and reliability for the company’s power plant communications throughout New York State.• Architected the state-wide OpsNet design.• Developed the organizational staff and structure needed to support the initiative.• Implemented the project’s pilot Proof of Concept (POC) which will be used to prove the design of OpsNet and capture all processes for standardization. • Created the implementation process to keep stakeholders informed of project status: reports, issue resolution, project plan, SharePoint, financial tracking and meeting timelines for senior management, site and corporate stakeholders. • Negotiated contract blanket agreements with equipment and service vendors.

Manager of network IT with overall accountability for procurement, development, deployment, maintenance and support of network and telecom infrastructure including switches, routers, wireless, video, LAN, WAN, and telecom services and equipment. Managed and mentored a team of 9 full time and contracting engineers with an annual budget of $4.6M.•Architected and implemented a statewide IP network connecting the company’s major locations. Migrated services, renegotiated telecom contracts and reduced annual telecom costs from $5.3M to $4.3M. •Created the team to relocate the Disaster Recovery site in 2012, reduced monthly costs from 33K to $16K.•Led the Decommissioning of major NYC power plant and relocation of all operational circuits. Project completed successfully without interruptions to any power grid communications.•Created and led the team in installing the $750K companywide HD videoconferencing with new bridging, secure Internet access, SmartBoards, video recording capability and a Video Network Operations Center (VNOC). •Implemented the company’s successful pilot VoIP program in 2013. Migration of remaining 2500 phones scheduled for completion in 2015. •Managed the design and installation of a centralized controller with 170 wireless access points providing solid wireless service in the corporate office.•Reduced Cisco equipment O&M costs, using a Cisco Authorized 3rd party vendor reducing annual costs $100K and provides accurate asset inventory management. •Renegotiated the PBX contract to eliminate unneeded services saving the company $200K annually

Teach the Cisco Networking Academy Program and Microsoft Server classes. Received the Certificate of Recognition for teaching excellence three years running.Traveled to Charleston SC and Dublin Ireland to discuss the Cisco Academy program with department heads; reviewing teaching methods, lab equipment and course concerns.

Bsee, Engineering

Mba, Business