Network Connex Engineering Manager, Spencer Foster, works out of our Deployment-North division based in Chicago, overseeing engineering activities in both the wired and wireless spectrum. He shares what keeps him engrossed in his work, and what keeps him busy outside of the job.

Tell us about your career path and what led you to your current role?

I’ve been in the telecommunications industry since 1984, and over the years, I’ve held various positions that have helped me build a deep understanding of both wired and wireless networks. My passion for engineering and project management, along with years of experience, eventually led me to my current role as Engineering Manager at Network Connex, where I started in 2016. I oversee both ISP and OSP infrastructure designs for telecom data carriers, working with some of the largest mobile carriers and shared communications infrastructure providers in the country.

What kinds of education or on the job training have helped you be successful in your current job?

Over the years, both formal education in telecommunications and hands-on, on-the-job training have been essential. My continuous work with industry-leading telecom companies and staying current with evolving technology trends have played a significant role in my success.

What characteristics do you think are needed to be successful in your role?

To be successful in my role, I believe strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, leadership, and the ability to adapt to the ever-changing telecom industry are essential. Being able to manage teams effectively and maintain strong communication with customers is also key.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

My day starts with scheduling our crew with the objective of the day, going over the progress, and reviewing status on any pending or upcoming jobs.

I then briefly communicate with our customers via email or phone call just to go over projects and keep a healthy relationship.

I then support our team out in the field—with splicing, testing, and aerial work—in areas we are short staffed or need to complete work by a certain time.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

I love the challenge of solving complex engineering problems and the opportunity to work on projects that shape the future of telecommunications infrastructure.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and grandkids. I have 4 children and 11 grandchildren, including two sets of twins. I’m passionate about outdoor activities like fishing and hunting, especially bird hunting over pointer dogs. A daily activity for me is reading the Bible, which brings me a lot of peace and fulfillment.

Tell us a fun or surprising fact about you!

A surprising fact about me is that I’ve been a youth minister for over 26 years. It’s a deeply fulfilling part of my life that allows me to serve and support others in meaningful ways outside of my professional career. Another surprising fact is that I’ve read all 66 books of the Bible at least three times.