Q&A with Matt Sampson
Q&A with Matt Sampson, U.S. Cellular Director of Business Sales for Iowa and Nebraska
Q. What emerging technologies is U.S. Cellular currently exploring (Machine learning/AI, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, etc.)?
We want to ensure that businesses of all sizes and functions – no matter where they are located – have access to the technology they need to be successful.
We are always evaluating and investing in technologies and enhancements that deliver an exceptional wireless experience. The Internet of Things (IoT) has applications in all industries as well as in the public sector, and the ability to connect remote assets to the Internet, collect data, and use it to make business decisions. IoT is driving widespread business transformation. We are actively exploring business applications for 5G technology, which will enable new use cases that benefit from much faster speeds and lower latency.
Q. Why is investing in innovation (or community involvement) important to U.S. Cellular?
In today’s competitive wireless industry, we know that investing in our customers’ experiences is the most important thing we can do. That means investing in the latest technology innovations, as well as in our local communities. In 2018, we invested $28.7 million in Iowa through enhancements to our network and store locations and in our Iowa communities.
This industry moves so fast. If you don’t focus on innovation, you can easily get left behind. At U.S. Cellular, we are always looking for ways to provide industry-leading innovations that can elevate the customer experience. As trusted community partners, we also are investing our time and money to support STEM education for youth in our communities to help inspire our future workforce.
Q. What challenges/opportunities is the wireless industry facing as it relates to technology or data security and how is U.S. Cellular addressing those challenges?
The IoT space is constantly growing. Some experts say that the introduction of 5G will allow virtually anything – possibly up to 1 trillion devices in the next decade – to connect to cellular networks. With that much connectivity, vulnerabilities can be exposed, so security is paramount in ensuring that the benefits of IoT can be realized.
We thoroughly research all of our potential vendors to ensure that they meet our security requirements. We invest in the best network security to help make certain that our customers are protected. We want to offer our customers the cutting-edge technology that they need to be efficient and successful, while also making sure they are confident that their data is secure.
Q. How is U.S. Cellular recruiting and developing the next generation of technology talent/leaders?
Over the past four years, we have donated nearly $370,000 to Iowa Boys & Girls Clubs to support their STEM education programs. As a technology company, we want to inspire and educate today’s youth to explore jobs in STEM fields. Throughout the year, we strive to provide youth with unique, interactive opportunities, which showcase real-world applications for STEM careers.
Q. When most people think of U.S. Cellular, they think about mobile phones. Complete the sentence: Consumers would be surprised to learn that U.S. Cellular…
We offer a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Specifically, we have been building a suite of IoT solutions for the past several years. We are diversifying our IoT portfolio and expanding our partner ecosystem to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We want to be your one-stop shop for all of your business technology needs.