Controversy ignites as Commscope's Mark Gibson and AT&T's Tom Willis receive prestigious award

In Washington, DC, on December 11, 2024, the Wireless Innovation Forum (WInnForum) held its Annual Meeting where Mark Gibson from CommScope and Tom Willis from AT&T were honored with the prestigious President's Award. This award is given in recognition of outstanding contributions made to the Forum and the broader wireless industry. Richard Bernhardt, the Chair of WInnForum and representing WISPA, emphasized the exceptional contributions made by Gibson and Willis, highlighting their invaluable insights and leadership, particularly in advancing the regulatory frameworks surrounding the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) and the 6 GHz Access Framework Control (AFC) systems. The meeting also marked the election of new board members unanimously approved by Forum membership, enhancing the Forum's leadership team. Among the newly elected board members is Monisha Ghosh, a Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame, who has a noteworthy background in wireless systems and served as the Chief Technology Officer at the Federal Communications Commission. Additionally, Virgil Cimpu, who brings over 25 years of experience in telecommunications and has played a significant role in the development of CBRS standards, was also elected to the Board's At Large Directors position. These new members are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of next-generation wireless technology, focusing on spectrum sharing, coexistence, and other areas critical to the telecommunication industry. The recognition of Mark Gibson and Tom Willis reflects a growing appreciation of innovation and collaboration within the wireless sector. Their consistent efforts have not only advanced the technical understanding of emerging wireless technologies but also shaped regulatory practices that will influence future developments. The decision to honor these individuals signifies WInnForum's commitment to acknowledging those who drive progress through dedicated involvement and expert contributions. Looking ahead, the initiation of new projects and the leadership of the newly appointed board members are anticipated to foster further advancements in wireless technology and regulation. The Forum aims to enhance cooperation among stakeholders to improve wireless communications, ensuring that the industry can meet the growing demands of users effectively, while also navigating the complexities of spectrum management. This comprehensive approach will likely yield beneficial outcomes as the wireless sector continues to evolve.