In The February 2025 Issue: |
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Thank you to our Newsletter sponsor: |
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Opportunities for Growth by Victoria Weidenthaler, WWLF President
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I am privileged to serve as President of the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF). It is an exciting time to step into this role, as WWLF continues to grow, evolve, and make a lasting impact on the telecommunications industry. I would like to thank our outgoing President (Lynn Whitcher), Vice President (Carolyn Hardwick), Secretary (Ashli Fuselier), and Treasurer (Michelle Salisbury), in addition to the rest of the WWLF Board, for their endless contributions to WWLF and our industry.
We continue our mission to elevate and empower women through a network committed to supporting women in leadership, education, and mentorship opportunities nationwide. Through our collective passion for the telecommunications industry, I seek to ensure we continue building on the current momentum WWLF has, strengthening our connections through growing our member base, and expanding our mentorship opportunities.
I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources and benefits that WWLF membership offers. To include: serving as a mentor or mentee, attending virtual and in-person events, participating in educational webinars as either a lecturer (to share your knowledge) or attendee (to learn something new).
Thank you for being a part of this incredible organization!
Victoria Weidenthaler
President, Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum |
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Reflecting on the Transformative Journey of the 2024 WWLF Fellowship by Talisha Germain, WWLF Co-Director of Programs
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Receiving the 2024 Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) Fellowship Award has been an incredible milestone in my career—one that has reshaped my perspective on leadership, mentorship, and professional growth. This journey brings me back to a pivotal conversation with Carolyn Hardwick, WWLF’s Vice President, as we departed San Francisco, CA, after attending our first Trailblazers event. Carolyn asked me, “What’s next, and where do you see yourself career-wise?”
At that moment, I hesitated to voice my aspirations. Were they too ambitious? Was I mapping out my career goals too late compared to my peers? Carolyn’s response was simple yet profound: “You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Just keep going!” Those words have stayed with me, serving as both a compass and a source of encouragement. Goals require intentionality and boldness, and I promised myself that if I were fortunate enough to receive the WWLF Fellowship, I would seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute—particularly by advocating for young girls in underserved areas who may not view telecommunications as a viable career path.
Over the past eight months, I have kept that promise, and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. This fellowship has provided me with more than a network—it has gifted me a village of mentors and advocates. I have had the privilege of being both mentored and a mentor, of volunteering my time, and of making a tangible impact in the lives of those around me.
Click to continue to read the full article on the WWLF website. |
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Unlocking Potential: The Power of the WWLF Mentorship Program by Debra Mercier, WWLF Co-Director of Membership
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The WWLF Mentorship Program stands as a beacon of empowerment and growth, playing a pivotal role in shaping the careers and personal development of women across various industries. At its core, this program fosters self-confidence and cultivates leadership qualities, empowering women to transcend societal expectations and organizational constraints.
The impact of the WWLF Mentorship Program extends beyond individual relationships—it creates a dynamic and supportive professional community. For mentees, it serves as a platform to build self-confidence, learn from inspiring role models, receive emotional support, recognize strengths, expand professional networks, and accelerate career growth. For mentors, it offers invaluable opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain fresh perspectives, enhance communication abilities, experience personal fulfillment, and build a distinguished personal brand.
By fostering these meaningful connections, the WWLF Mentorship Program generates a powerful ripple effect that extends far beyond the individual participants, contributing to a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving professional landscape. We invite you to be a part of this transformative experience by joining the 2025 Mentorship Program, launching soon. Click to view the post on the WWLF website to read the full benefits for Mentors and Mentees. Sign up information for the 2025 WWLF mentorship program will be posted soon on the website. |
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Maximizing Your Professional Growth: The Benefits of Attending Industry Conferences by Taylor Sierra, WWLF Vice President
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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.
Click to view the full article on the WWLF website to learn more about the Impact of Face-to-Face Engagement and Investing in Your Future! |
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Bridging the Gap: Women Leading the Future of Telecommunications and Beyond by Stephanie Whitlock, WWLF Newsletter Editor
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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. Click to go to the WWLF website to continue reading about Harnessing Technology to Advance Inclusion and Building Inclusive Workplaces for Sustainable Growth. |
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WWLF DC Chapter “Galentine’s Social” |
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Join us for a special Galentine’s Social, an inclusive evening for professionals in the wireless and communications industries to connect, mingle, and unwind. Taking place the night before the WIA Luncheon, this event offers a casual yet engaging atmosphere to spark new relationships and catch up with peers. Open to both members and non-members, this is the perfect opportunity to network outside the luncheon and set the tone for an exciting time in the nation’s capital. Don’t miss this chance to join us for a memorable evening! Feb 11, 2025 6:00-8:00pm EST
The Henley Park Hotel: 926 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20001 Members $10 | Non-members $15
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Wireless Women's Leadership Luncheon |
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Feb 12, 2025 11:00am - 2:00pm (EST)
JW Marriott Washington, DC
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WWLF Book Read! First virtual book read of 2025! |
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Join us for an inspiring book discussion of "Your Best Year Ever" by Michael Hyatt, a powerful guide to setting and achieving your most important goals.
In this book, Hyatt offers a proven, five-step plan to help you break through obstacles, cultivate the right mindset, and make lasting progress in both personal and professional areas. Through practical strategies, you’ll learn how to set smart goals, create a compelling vision for your future, and overcome the barriers that typically hold us back. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, career, or relationships, this book will give you the tools to make this year truly your best yet.
Register now to dive into this transformative book and unlock the potential for lasting success!
Feb 19, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM (CST)
Teams link will be sent prior to the event
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Monthly Networking Event: Motivation and Mugs |
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With all of the transition and new information in our industry, where can we turn our attention for guidance and encouragement? Join your fellow WWLF members for a morning motivation and the opportunity to connect while enjoying your beverage of choice.
Unless there is a holiday, we meet for Motivation and Mugs the first Monday of each month. You'll have the opportunity to introduce yourself and share in a discussion about the overlap of our industry, your professional journey, and any personal details you're comfortable sharing.
TOPIC: Intro to Prompt Engineering – How to Write with Generative AI |
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Join Annette Mahoney, WWLF Member and Specification Program Manager at FiRa Consortium, Inc., for an engaging introduction to prompt engineering. Learn the basics of crafting effective prompts for generative AI tools like ChatGPT and discover practical strategies for enhancing productivity. This session will explore applications such as refining resumes and cover letters, drafting "About Me" blurbs, organizing ideas for documents, and managing tone in challenging emails.
We look forward to seeing you on our next call! Registration closes the Thursday prior to the meeting.
Mar 3, 2025, 10:00-10:45am (EST)
Teams link will be sent prior to the event |
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WWLF Pittsburgh Lean In Circle |
Lean In Circle
The WWLF Pittsburgh Lean In Circle would be a dedicated space for women in the wireless and telecommunications industry to foster personal and professional growth. These quarterly meetings would combine educational content with networking opportunities, aligning with WWLF’s mission to support women leaders and advance their careers.
The WWLF Pittsburgh Lean In Circle is a supportive community of women in the wireless and telecommunications industry that fosters personal and professional growth. As part of the Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum, our Circle provides a space to connect, share experiences, and empower one another to achieve career ambitions and overcome challenges unique to women in the field.
Through regular meetings, interactive discussions, and shared resources, we aim to:
- Build confidence and leadership skills.
- Create a network of mentorship and collaboration.
- Address industry-specific challenges like gender bias and career advancement.
The mission of the WWLF Pittsburgh Lean In Circle is to empower women in the wireless and telecommunications industry to achieve their fullest potential. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive space where members can build meaningful connections, gain valuable insights, and develop the confidence and skills necessary to excel personally and professionally.
Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared learning, we aim to inspire women to lead boldly, break barriers, and contribute to shaping a more equitable and innovative industry.
Meeting Goals and Structure
Each quarterly meeting will include the following elements:
- Educational Component: A workshop, presentation, or panel discussion on leadership development, overcoming workplace challenges, negotiating effectively, or navigating industry trends.
- Networking Opportunity: This is a time for members to build relationships, share experiences, and connect with one another in a supportive environment.
- Actionable Takeaways: Each meeting will provide participants with resources, tools, or goals to apply their knowledge to their careers.
Mar 13, 2025, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM (EDT)
Alloy 26, 100 S Commons #102, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 |
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Join the WWLF at South Wireless Summit - Proud Platinum Sponsor |
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Join WWLF on Sunday, March 23rd at Symphony Ballroom (1st Floor) in the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. Come gather around and mingle with fellow WWLF members to kick-off South Wireless Summit.
Registration is free for members and $20 for non-members.
*Please note this registration includes appetizers and one drink ticket. (Cash Bar Thereafter)
WWLF is a Proud Platinum Sponsor of the South Wireless Summit.
Please stop by and visit our booth to learn more about WWLF organization and benefits of being a member!
Mar 23, 2025, 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM (CDT)
Loews Vanderbilt Hotel 2100 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37203 |
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Monthly Networking Event: Motivation and Mugs |
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With all of the transition and new information in our industry, where can we turn our attention for guidance and encouragement? Join your fellow WWLF members for a morning motivation and the opportunity to connect while enjoying your beverage of choice.
Unless there is a holiday, we meet for Motivation and Mugs the first Monday of each month. You'll have the opportunity to introduce yourself and share in a discussion about the overlap of our industry, your professional journey, and any personal details you're comfortable sharing. We look forward to seeing you on our next call! Registration closes the Thursday prior to the meeting. Apr 7, 2025, 10:00-10:45am (EDT)
Teams link will be sent prior to the event
Member only event
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Dr. Tameka Ellington Series: “Collaboration and Belonging: Building Relationships in the Workplace” |
Apr 17, 2025, 12:00-1:00pm (CDT)
Teams link will be sent prior to the event
Member only event
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In the midst of our world seemingly being more broken apart by war and politics, the human factor is getting lost. Dr. Tameka Ellington will present strategies for building connection and relationships to promote workplace success and reignite the humanness in us all.
Dr. Tameka obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion from KSU, a Master of Arts in Apparel and Textile Design from Michigan State University, and a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from KSU. Dr. Tameka is CEO and Founder of Dr. Tameka Ellington Enterprises, a personal and professional development company. She is a speaker, internationally acclaimed and awarded fashion scholar, and confidence coach. She’s the author of five books, including the award-winning book, TEXTURES: the history and art of Black hair written for its namesake exhibition co-curated by Dr. Tameka, featuring artifacts and contemporary artworks musing on Black hair and Black culture. Dr. Tameka is also the host of the Black Beauty Activist Podcast where she has critical conversations with her guests to disrupt Westernize beauty standards and raise the consciousness and confidence of Black women. While working in the academy, she served as Assistant Dean for the College of the Arts and Director for Diversity Initiatives for a team of over 3,000 people (faculty, staff, and students). Dr. Tameka is dedicated to empowering her clients to achieve new levels of self-confidence, and helping them break down cultural barriers in their personal and professional lives. Her motto is ,“On the other side of fear is your beautiful confidence.” |
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Thank you to our exclusive newsletter sponsor |
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Connect with WWLF
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WWLF is a proud affiliate of WIA
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Women's Wireless Leadership Forum C/O WIA
2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 210 Arlington, VA 22201
© 2025 Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum All Rights Reserved
WWLF is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse voices are welcome in all aspects of our organization. WWLF values the knowledge and perspectives that our members bring to our organization from their diverse backgrounds. While all members are welcome to participate in both regional and national events, WWLF remains committed to the design and delivery of content to support the development of women in the wireless communications industry. |
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