James Chidester

With over 32 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, I have established a strong track record in delivering large-scale network infrastructure projects and leading high-performing field organizations. My expertise encompasses overseeing telecommunications implementations that support AI-enabled networks, fiber deployment, public infrastructure initiatives, and enterprise connectivity solutions. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated success in aligning engineering teams, construction crews, contractors, and government stakeholders to ensure the safe, timely, and scalable delivery of telecommunications and technology infrastructure.

My focus on operational efficiency and cost savings has consistently contributed to successful project outcomes. As a driven Senior Manager, I am highly skilled in training, leading, and managing teams. I support business objectives by employing strategic management practices and fostering proactive communication within teams.

My leadership style is characterized by high energy, strong emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to team cohesion, enabling the achievement of organizational goals.

Senior Manager – Local Network Implementation at Lumen Technologies (2021-05 – Present)

Lead end-to-end deployment of AI-enabled telecommunications infrastructure serving residential and enterprise customers statewide with focus on operational efficiency, safety, and team development.

• Lead from the front with a culture built on Honesty, respect, trust, transparency and growth mindset. Treating people how I want to be treated with integrity, customer obsession and courage.
• Lead end-to-end deployment of AI-enabled telecommunications infrastructure serving residential and enterprise customers statewide.
• Deliver industry-leading deployment timelines and cost efficiencies through coordinated engineering and field execution across field operations 50% Motor vehicle accident reduction YOY.
• Led teams delivering Red Carpet service for the Utah Education Network (UEN) supporting statewide education connectivity.
• Align engineering design, construction planning, and field operations to ensure scalable network deployment.
• Drive continued training on new systems, improve processes and procedures and push initiatives throughout the organization.
• Implemented process improvements, significantly increasing operational efficiency 10% improvement enterprise score card YOY.
• Oversaw talent acquisition and development, fostering high-performance team culture.
• Drive decisions to the lowest level possible to drive towards a local model.
• Lead and support local and virtual teams.

Supervisor – Local Network Implementation at Lumen / CenturyLink (2010-05 – 2021-05)

Led daily operations for fiber and copper telecommunications technicians with focus on performance evaluation, motivational leadership, and service quality.

• Led daily operations for 30+ fiber and copper telecommunications technicians.
• Evaluated staff performance, communicating feedback, and setting personal goals.
• Inspired teams using motivational leadership style.
• Attended and contributed to regular managerial meetings.
• Monitored numerous employee activities and assigned tasks to cover demand.
• Continue an outstanding working relationship with the RP/GM Operations team along with Leading/Support market meeting.
• Manage and Direct plans and specifications to provide high quality service with in established time frames and to meet defined financial criteria.

Network Implementation Program Manager at Lumen / CenturyLink (2006-03 – 2010-05)

Managed network implementation projects including vendor/contractor negotiations, project analysis, and continuous improvement practices.

• Processed and negotiated bidding of projects with vendors/contractors for the constructions/installation of OSP facilities.
• Analyzed project outcomes and provided insights for future project enhancements.
• Coached and mentored junior project managers and team members.
• Implemented continuous improvement practices to streamline project execution with contractor/vendors.
• Help support engineering teams with quality and following of process and productivity.
• Manage and direct plans and specifications to provide high quality service within established time frames and to meet defined financial criteria.

Network Technician at Lumen / CenturyLink (1999-03 – 2006-03)

Configured network hardware and maintained network elements through continuous administration and monitoring.

• Configured hardware, including switches and routers for local area networks.
• Maintained network elements in peak condition through continuous network administration, network monitoring and investigations focused on resolving anomalies.

Above/Below Wing Technician at Delta Airlines

13 years simultaneous career with Delta Airlines with multiple awards including station of the year.

• 13 years simultaneous career Delta Airlines Above/Below wing multiple awards including station of the year.