In The Q4 2026 Issue:

• WWLF Q4 Introduction
• Building Confidence Before Self-Doubt Shows Up
• Reflection with WWLF ELT
• Call for 2027 Sponsorships
• WWLF Executive Leadership Elections
• Upcoming Events

Thank you to our Newsletter sponsor:

WWLF Q4 Introduction
 by Jaylene Nelson, 2026 WWLF Editor

Can you feel it?  The air assumes a different character not only in Fall, but within the entrance of a new season in WWLF.  After months of heat, humidity – pushing with all your might, sweating to meet goals, mentor, and lead; the wind begins to surge.  Finally, the leaves fall, autumn brings change and although subtle, – boom, it is a new season and anxiety hits for upcoming seasonal changes, year-end closures, elections, and the cold.  

WWLF has upcoming elections.  The Executive Leadership will shed, leadership will be in transition, and then our Leadership will bloom into 2027 like Spring.  

This is where our WWLF Newsletter keeps the focus this quarter.  Through all changes we must check our confidence and move without self-doubt.  Heather Gastelum provides confident tips to help us continue to build on our confidence before any self-doubt rears up.  Our Executive Leadership provides us with Reflections of their service, inspiring, sharing, and celebrating our organization.  

At a time when we begin to start reflecting and celebrating our wins with gratitude, please reflect on our service to one another, the impact of WWLF on yourself and others, and think about how next year looks for you, your leadership, and your career. Then go to the ballot and cast your vote for the next WWLF Executive Leadership, starting November 11th, closing December 11, 2026.  

Embrace the seasons, embrace the change and, most importantly, embrace yourself!  

See everyone in 2027!!

Jaylene Nelson, 2026 WWLF Editor

Building Confidence Before Self-Doubt Shows Up
by Heather Gastelum

We can’t wait until girls are 18 to convince them they belong in STEM or the trades. By then, many have already decided they don’t. Confidence has to be built long before self-doubt ever arrives.

Building Confidence Before Self-Doubt Shows Up

After more than 30 years working in telecommunications and construction, I’ve spent a lot of time asking why there still aren’t more women in STEM and the skilled trades.

People often assume the answer starts in high school or college.

I don’t think it does.

I think it starts much much earlier, as it did for me.

Somewhere along the way, little girls stop raising their hands. They stop climbing trees. They stop taking things apart just to see how they work. They begin worrying more about getting it right than trying something new. Confidence slowly gives way to comparison, and curiosity gets replaced with self-doubt.

By the time many young women are introduced to careers in engineering, construction, utilities, telecommunications, manufacturing, or other technical fields, they’ve already spent years believing those careers belong to someone else.

That’s a problem we can fix.

I grew up around steel fabrication and eventually built a career in one of the more male-dominated industries in America. I didn’t become successful because someone lowered the bar for me. I became successful because people saw something in me and gave me opportunities, expected excellence, and allowed me to figure out that I was capable of more than I ever imagined.

Confidence isn’t something we’re born with.

It’s something we build.

We build it every time a girl learns to safely use a tool, solve a problem, repair something that’s broken, ask a question without fear of looking foolish, lead a team, or discover that failure isn’t something to avoid—it’s simply part of learning.

That’s exactly why I created the Power Tools & Ponytails™ series and why workforce development has become such an important part of my mission. We shouldn’t be waiting until career fairs to introduce girls to the trades. We should be planting those seeds in elementary school, long before someone tells them they “can’t.” Click to continue reading the full article on the WWLF website. 

Editor's note: WWLF is addressing the gap in STEM through initiatives like Telecom Trailblazers and its Mentoring Program

Reflection with WWLF ELT
Victoria Weidenthaler (President), Taylor Weltmeyer (Vice-President), Michelle Salisbury (Treasurer), and Sara Muehlberger (Secretary)

1. How did you first get involved with WWLF, and what made you want to step into an executive leadership role?

V: I first found WWLF through a former manager who was a WWLF Board Member at the time. I was in my first year in telecom when she insisted I join the organization, and soon after I joined the Programs Committee, helping oversee WWLF’s Fellowship Award Program. I later served on the Board as Executive Director of Programs and then Education, which gave me a front-row seat to the work WWLF does. When the opportunity came, I felt it was my time to step up and help WWLF build on the momentum created by prior leadership, and to expand it by creating more opportunities and support for women to step into leadership roles throughout the industry.

T: My WWLF story began at Connect X in 2018, when I stopped by the WWLF booth and signed up on the spot. Over the years I’ve grown alongside the organization, serving as a City Representative, Fellowship recipient, Executive Director of Membership, and now Vice President. What drew me in, and what keeps me here, is WWLF’s genuine commitment to women’s success in our industry. I wanted to be part of an organization that invests in it, and leadership was the way to give back.

M: I entered the telecommunications industry in 2005 and was introduced to WWLF by my first manager who was one of the organization’s co-founders. Her encouragement inspired me to join and marked the start of my long-standing commitment to the organization and its mission. I decided to step up to an executive leadership role to take my involvement to a higher level.

S: I became involved with WWLF early in my career at Terracon, as I was finding my way within the telecommunications industry. I formally joined in 2019 and quickly became involved as an Atlanta City Representative. After serving in that role for several years, I had the opportunity to expand my involvement as the Southeast Regional Director of Events.

Early on, I knew I wanted to continue growing within WWLF and eventually pursue an executive leadership role. After all, who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by such an incredible group of women leaders? WWLF has played an important role in my professional journey by expanding my network, challenging me to grow, and providing valuable resources and opportunities throughout my career. Stepping into executive leadership felt like a natural next step and a meaningful way to give back to an organization that has invested so much in me.

2. What does your role involve day to day, and what might surprise members about it?

V: Day to day, my role is part coordinator, part connector, and part cheerleader. I work with the committee Executive Directors to keep our priorities aligned across Education, Marketing &

Communications, Programs (including our Mentoring and Telecom Trailblazers initiatives), Sponsorship, Events, and Membership. I also spend time with WIA Leadership, namely our WWLF Liaison to ensure consistency with WIA initiatives and goals. What might surprise members is that the WWLF ELT and Board are made up entirely of volunteers who care deeply!

T: As Vice President, much of my work happens behind the scenes, supporting the preparation across each of our committees. I spend a lot of my time making sure we bring the best content to our members. What might surprise members is how much planning and collaboration goes into every program and event before it ever reaches them.

M: The Treasurer’s role involves conducting weekly reviews of all Wild Apricot transactions, including event registrations, membership dues, and sponsorship payments, and reconciling them with AffiniPay, our payment processor. The position is also responsible for preparing and submitting related reports to WIA, tracking and approving all WWLF expenditures, managing the organization’s credit card, and developing and submitting the annual budgets for both WWLF and Telecom Trailblazers. One aspect of the role that may surprise members is that all expenditures and budgets are subject to WIA approval.

S: My role is a unique blend of national client management, business development, and relationship building. I manage several of our large telecommunications clients nationwide, serving as a primary point of contact for new opportunities, project needs, questions, and concerns. I also focus heavily on strengthening client relationships and identifying opportunities to grow Terracon’s presence within the telecommunications industry.

Something members may not realize is how deeply involved I am in leadership across the wireless industry and within Terracon. In addition to my day-to-day responsibilities, I serve as Vice President of the Georgia Wireless Association and Associate Director of Events for South Wireless Summit. I also lead our Chapters Committee and a local chapter for Terracon’s Increasing Women in Leadership (iWIL) employee resource group. Each of these roles gives me another opportunity to build community, strengthen relationships, and help create opportunities for others.

3. What has been the most rewarding part of serving on the executive team this year?

V: The most rewarding part has been seeing our impact up close: sitting in on mentoring calls as Mentor/Mentee pairs present on industry and professional development topics, welcoming more than 100 students to our Telecom Trailblazers program at Connect(X) in Ft. Lauderdale, and watching our sponsors partner with us in new ways, from Intro to Telecom webinars to in-person events nationwide.

T: Watching our membership grow and knowing our work is reaching and supporting more women every year. Every new member is another woman who has found a community that wants to see her succeed.

M: The most rewarding part of my WWLF experience has been getting to know, and work alongside, the talented women on the ELT and Board.

S: The most rewarding part of serving on the executive leadership team has been the opportunity to step into this role and contribute alongside such an incredible group of women. Even though my time in the role has been relatively short, I feel truly honored to have been asked to support the executive leadership board and grateful for the trust they placed in me. Being recognized as a leader within our industry is incredibly meaningful, but what I value most is having the opportunity to use that platform to encourage, support, and celebrate other women as they grow into leadership roles of their own.

4. If you could leave one message for every member of the WWLF community as your term comes to a close, what would it be?

V: Like my journey in WWLF started, I would tell the WWLF community to continue to show up but bring someone with you. This community is only as strong as the doors we hold open for each other!

T: WWLF is a well-connected community that is always here for you, whether you’re a member or a follower. We are committed to your success in the telecommunications industry, and I want you to know that there will always be a seat for you at the table.

M: My message to the WWLF community is to take full advantage of all we offer. Attend as many events and webinars as possible, join a committee, and share your ideas. In short, become involved.

S: Be your authentic self, trust what you bring to the table, and don’t let imposter syndrome convince you that you don’t belong. You’ve earned your seat, so own it with confidence.

Seek out mentors who inspire you, and when you have the opportunity, turn around and be that person for someone else. Support other women, celebrate their successes, and open doors whenever you can. Most importantly, never stop learning, challenging yourself, and growing.

5. When you pause and look forward, what comes to mind for the 2027 ELT path?

V: Expansion. Telecom is the backbone of everything from data centers and AI to macro sites and fiber networks, and WWLF should continue to reflect that breadth. In 2027, I’d love to see our membership and sponsor community grow to represent every corner of this industry.

T: Grow. Connect. Elevate. More women, more partnerships, and more opportunities for all of us.

M: Evolve

S: Momentum. Continuing to grow with confidence, lead authentically, and create opportunities for the women coming alongside and behind us.

The Election Schedule

All key dates will also be communicated via email and LinkedIn.

November 11, 2026

Ballot opens

All eligible members will receive voting instructions via email

December 11, 2026

Ballot closes

No later than December 21, 2026

Results published

Announced via e-blast and LinkedIn

December 31, 2026

2025/2026 term ends

Incoming leadership assumes their roles

Upcoming Events

WWLF Intro to Telecom: From Insight to Action: Agentic AI in Telecom Change Management

12 Nov 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (CST)
Zoom link to be provided upon registration
Members Only

From Insight to Action: Agentic AI in Telecom Change Management

In complex operations, the hardest part isn't spotting pdeciding whatto do, fast, with incomplete information. In this session, we explore how agentic AI is transforming change management in telecom, moving from long, rule-based conflict lists to prioritized, explainable recommendations that surface risk and impact before a decision is made. Using a real-world example, we'll show how intelligence layered onto existing systems empowers smarter, faster choices - keeping people firmly in the loop. A practical look at AI in practice, and where leaders can take it next.

Deepika Chanamolu is a Director on the AI & Data team at Incedo, working at the intersection of telecom domain expertise and applied AI to bring agentic AI solutions into production across network operations. She brings more than two decades of telecom experience, including nine years at Verizon spanning RF engineering, network planning, wireless assurance, operations, and network implementation, with a later focus on AI-enabled analytics and cloud migration. A longtime member of the Women's Wireless Leadership Forum, Deepika is passionate about advancing and mentoring women in telecom.

Joshua Gebhardt is a Vice President at Incedo, leading commercialization and go-to-market strategy for the company’s AI, data, and product portfolio, with a focus on telecommunications solutions. With more than 15 years of experience spanning AI, analytics, cloud, SaaS, and enterprise technology, he has held leadership roles at SAP Concur, Talend, Twilio, and Qlik. Joshua specializes in translating emerging technologies into scalable business outcomes, helping organizations leverage data and AI to drive transformation, innovation, and measurable value.

WWLF Networking Event in Salt Lake City - “Live, Laugh, Love”

12 Nov 2026, 5:30-7:30 PM (MST)
JWong’s Thai and Chinese Bistro 163 W. 200 S Ste 100 Salt Lake City, UT

The Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) is excited to invite you to “Live, Laugh, Love” a Salt Lake City Event.

Let’s get to know each other!! Bring 3 slides with one picture for each slide describing a) My Workday, b) How I Relax or Laugh, and c) Something I love

This is a great opportunity to:

Strengthening new and established relationships, continue to encourage individual and community growth, build closer friendships and the spirit of colleagues, find opportunities to serve and build-up one another

Make memorable WWLF memories for all Utah Telecom people, members and non-members

Create and Grow the WWLF network and influence in Salt Lake City

Establish a good and supportive Network of WWLF members and to strengthen our bond

Involve and contribute to the success of WWLF mission

Strengthen the affiliation and support to the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA)

Let's Eat Austin!

12 Nov 2026, 6:00-8:00 PM (CST)
Let’s Eat Austin, 1610 Chatham Avenue, Austin, Texas 78723

Bon Appétit & Bonne Connexion!

Join WWLF for a fun and flavorful networking experience where good conversation meets great French cuisine! Step away from the usual networking event and into the kitchen for an interactive French cooking class.

Together, we’ll prepare a delicious three-course menu featuring shrimp en papillote, braised Dijon chicken with pommes purées and roasted vegetables, and a seasonal clafoutis for dessert.

Along the way, you’ll learn and practice classic French cooking techniques, including searing, braising, steaming, boiling, and roasting, all while connecting with fellow WWLF members in a relaxed, hands-on setting.

Come ready to cook, connect, laugh, and enjoy a little taste of France! No culinary experience required. Just bring your appetite and your appetite for networking.

Good food. Great connections. A little French flair. À bientôt!

WWLF FRIENDSGIVING SOIRÉE -Dallas

18 Nov 2026, 5:30-8:00 PM (CST)
Eddie V’s | 5300 State Hwy 121, Plano, TX

Good Food • Great Company • Lasting Connections

Join us for a special evening of gratitude, friendship, and meaningful connections as we celebrate the incredible women who make the WWLF community so special.

Eddie V’s | 5300 State Hwy 121, Plano, TX

November 18, 2026

⏰ 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

✨ Friendsgiving Dinner

️ $80 | Three-course dinner

Add a wine pairing for $30

À la carte options also available

And don’t rush home! After dinner, join us in the bar for cocktails and live music from the Don Morgan Trio.

Come raise a glass, share some laughs, and celebrate the friendships and connections that make WWLF so special.

Registration will close 11/11/26

We can’t wait to celebrate Friendsgiving with you!

WWLF - Chicago Volunteer Day

19 Nov 2026, 2:15-4:00 PM (CST)
Feed My Starving Children - 740 Wiley Farm CT, Schaumburg, IL

Join WWLF in Giving Back!

The Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) is excited to bring our wireless community together for a meaningful volunteer opportunity at Feed My Starving Children on November 19th! ❤️

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow industry professionals while making a positive impact in the lives of children around the world.

Whether you’re a WWLF member or simply looking for a way to give back, we would love to have you join us!

Monthly Networking Event: Motivation and Mugs

07 Dec 2026, 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM (EDT) - Register

Teams Link to be provided prior to the Event

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.

Become a new member of WWLF or renew your membership today!

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© 2026 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.