As a seasoned leader at Windstream, I lead the Digital Experience, Data, and AI departments, focusing on driving innovation in customer portals. My role involves developing and implementing a data strategy that incorporates advanced technologies like Generative AI and Big Data, utilizing cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and OCI.My goal is to use AI and data analytics to improve operational efficiency, increase revenue, and differentiate our products. In the last year, we've made progress in using Generative AI to enhance how we solve problems and innovate. Our team has integrated technologies like OpenAI’s Whisper, GPT-3/3.5/4, Apache Kafka, Druid, and NiFi, and SaaS solutions including Snowflake, Quickbase, and RapidMiner. This has significantly improved analytics and automation across Operational Support Systems (OSS), Business Support Systems (BSS), and programmable networks, reducing service delivery times, improving First Call Resolution and decreasing churn.We use Generative AI to improve internal operations, customer interactions, service provisioning, and cybersecurity. Our DevOps teams play a key role in applying these technologies, showcasing the impact of AI in the telecom sector.My journey through the telecom industry, marked by diverse roles across Finance, Operations, and IT in both wireless and wireline sectors. 🚀🛫 Post-US Air Force, I dove into telecom with CenturyTel, bridging tech and service, a solid base for my career.📱 At Alltel, I deepened my knowledge in wireless telecom, exploring Finance and Operations, gaining a holistic view of the industry.🔄 Acquisitions led me to Verizon, where I took on leadership roles, focusing on system integrations and operational strategies in a rapidly evolving telecom landscape.🏗️ With AWCC, I had the unique opportunity to build a new wireless company, leading to innovations in Mediation, Provisioning, and Service Orchestration, culminating in an acquisition by AT&T.🌐 At AT&T, I embraced next-gen telecom technologies, focusing on NFV, SDN, and cloud infrastructure.Each step in my career has contributed to a broad and deep understanding of the telecom industry, from operational excellence to leading-edge technology.Beyond the realm of technology and telecom, I find joy and balance on the golf course. Sharing this passion with my daughter has not only been a source of personal happiness but has also offered us invaluable lessons in patience, strategy, and the art of continuous improvement—principles that resonate deeply with both my professional journey and personal growth.