While LightRiver, a network integrator, operates in multiple customer spheres—telecom providers, data centers and the public sector- the one thing they all have in common is that they operate high-reliability communications networks. The company is focused on building networks that they sell services to every fund from the Internet at your house to multi-terabit networks between data centers and enterprises of all sizes in between.
Out of its main customer segments, the largest of the networks that it builds is in the service provider sector. As a result, LightRiver keeps a keen eye on what's happening there and what's happening in the other areas so it can bring value to our customers by sharing ideas that it has learned as best practices across different areas.
In this episode, we talked to two experts at LightRiver about providing a seamless experience for their provider customers:
Walt Paskowski, SVP marketing and sales operations for LightRiver
And
Matt Briley, Senior VP of global sales for LightRiver
Here is a timeline of the episode:
0:03 Opening and introduction of guests
0:26 Customer diversity
The unique elements of the three main industries LightRiver serves—service providers, data centers, and the public sector.
2:04 LightRiver’s factory-built networks approach.
How LightRiver’s approach to building a network in its own facility minimizes disruption for its customers.
4:41 Customer examples
LightRiver shares how it helped Gigabit Fiber build a new network for interconnecting about 12 different data centers in Dallas and other markets.
5:56 Integrating network assets
How LightRiver can help service providers integrate assets they purchase.
8:02 Cable’s coax and fiber transition
Giving cable customers a common view of their assets.
10:59 The evolving data center industry
LightRiver’s factory-built network process is finding resonance with data center providers.
12:33 AI’s growing influence
How LightRiver has incorporated AI to help its customers track assets, network data, and building agents into its software.
15:16 Light River’s wide geographic reach
The company has personnel in 26 out of the 50 states across the US and 150 team members in North America and the UK to respond to its diverse customer set.
17:46 Final Thoughts/Closing
Walt Paskowski and Matt Briley share their final thoughts with Broadband Pulse host Sean Buckley.
About our guests
Walt Paskowski, SVP marketing and sales operations for LightRiver
Walt Paskowski oversees LightRiver’s marketing and sales operations, reporting to the CEO. He originally joined LightRiver in 2013 as Senior Vice President of Sales, focused on Utility, Transit, State & Local Government, Public Safety and Research & Education market verticals. He brings over 20 years of experience driving client-centric, mission-critical technology and business solutions, sales leadership and bottom-line revenue contributions to LightRiver and its customers from best-of-breed transport equipment manufacturers, like Alcatel-Lucent and Harris Corporation. Walt has a background in finance, manufacturing, operations and sales. Walt has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Strayer University and another Bachelor of Science in Finance & Business Administration from the University of Connecticut.
Matt Briley, senior VP of global sales for LightRiver
Matt Briley is at the helm of LightRiver’s Global Sales and Network Solutions Engineering teams, where he oversees both the business and technology aspects of providing customers and partners with problem-solving technology. His primary focus is empowering companies to automate, modernize, and optimize their communications networks, ensuring they stay ahead in the ever-changing industry. With over two decades of experience, Matt has held crucial roles in the industry, including leading Nokia’s Optical Networking business in North America. He also made significant contributions in sales and engineering management positions at Infinera and Ciena, expanding businesses across multiple geographies and sectors. Matt’s passion for the industry is entwined in his background, holding a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the University of Oklahoma, and beginning his career with the MCI engineering development program. When he’s not shaping the future of telecommunications, Matt enjoys spending quality time with his family in Heath, TX, just outside Dallas. Together, they relish activities such as biking, sporting clays, golf, and Jeeping.
About the Podcast
In the Lightwave Broadband Pulse podcast, we address the key issues affecting the optical and broadband industry segments. Join us every week for insights from industry leaders on these topics. Visit our website at www.lightwave.com and our podcast site at www.broadbandpulse.podbean.com.
About the Author
Sean Buckley
Sean is responsible for establishing and executing the editorial strategy of Lightwave across its website, email newsletters, events, and other information products.