We had so much fun hosting the Great Falls Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours last week!
It was a blast having guests enjoying great music with TOAST and delicious food by Clark & Lewie's. Michelle Dahl, our account executive, gave tours of our facilities, showcasing the Network Operations Center (NOC). Vision Net's NOC has operated in Great Falls since 2004 and provides 24/7/365 support and monitoring coverage to Vision Net clients nationwide.
We hope you had fun, and we truly appreciate your support!
Vision Net hosted Data Center Ribbon Cutting in Billings, Montana
On Sept 9th, Vision Net celebrated the acquisition of its new data center! We had a blast at our ribbon cutting and open house with Billings Chamber members, ambassadors, guests, and clients. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us.
After our interim CEO, Gary Evan's speech, our data center manager, Shawn Helmbrecht, led the facility tours for guests. The facility features Multi-factor Security, 24-hour customer access, diverse network connectivity, and reliable commercial power among other security measures.
Vision Net Opens the Doors on its Newest Data Center
Customers and community invited to an open house and tour in Billingson Friday, September 9
Billings, MT–Vision Net, Inc., a Montana-based telecommunications solution provider, is hosting an open house with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new data center at 1030 Central Avenue in Billings on Friday, September 9, from 11 am to 1 pm. The event will include door prizes, a facility tour, and lunch provided by the La Taqueria Food Truck. Because this is a highly secure facility, tour reservations are requested at www.vision.net/openhouse.
Data centers are facilities that centralize a company's IT operations and equipment at an offsite location. With the advent of edge computing—which brings computation and data storage closer to the customer to save bandwidth, increase response times, and bolster security—the demand for these centers has grown exponentially. At its most basic level, a data center provides valuable "real estate" for a company's most critical IT components, including routers, storage systems, firewalls, and servers.
Vision Net's 1030 Central Data Center boasts 24,000 square feet with dry pipe fire suppression and zoned heat/smoke detection, a floor loading capacity of 200+ pounds per square foot, a redundant HVAC system with hot/cold isle configuration, and a shipping and receiving area with two loading docks. Other vital features include:
- 24-hour Customer Access and around-the-clock "remote hands" assistance and (NOC) Network Operation Center support.
- Diverse Network Connectivity to multiple carriers, and carrier neutrality
- Highly reliable commercial power with redundant ups and generator back-up
- Compliances include System Organizational Controls (SOC 1 Type 2) and PCI DSS SAQ Compliant.
Vision Net Interim CEO Gary Evans is pleased to welcome the community to 1030 Central. "Vision Net's new data center expands our suite of solutions to deliver a more comprehensive, end-to-end customer experience for clients across the country and around the world," he said. "As a Montana-based firm, part of our mission is to fuel growth throughout our state. 1030 Central delivers on this promise, ensuring area businesses have access to the most innovative solutions available today.
The new data center was acquired as part of Vision Net's recent acquisition of iConnect Montana.
About Vision Net
For 27 years, Vision Net has provided a full suite of B2B telecommunications solutions to financial services, healthcare, government, professional and educational clients, allowing them to innovate and expand in Montana and beyond. With offices in Great Falls, Billings, Missoula, and Helena, Vision Net gives its clients the peace of mind to concentrate on their business by providing a secure, agile, and adaptable network built for their needs and budget. Vision Net is proud to be Montana's largest independent network and proud to call Montana home.
Vision Net President & CEO Corey Jensen Announces His Retirement
Great Falls, MT– The Board of Directors of Vision Net, Inc., a Montana-based telecommunications solution provider, today announced the company’s President & CEO, Corey Jensen is retiring. Jensen has been with the firm for 22 years, serving in numerous roles, including Operations Manager and Executive Vice President, before assuming the leadership role in 2017. Jensen’s last day will be July 29, 2022.
“It is with great pride and honor that I announce my retirement from Vision Net,” Jensen said, “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to spend so much of my professional life at Vision Net, surrounded by dedicated and passionate team members. I’m thankful for the many opportunities this company has afforded me and am proud of our many accomplishments. I’m confident that Vision Net will continue to be a leading force in the telecommunications space.”
During his tenure, Jensen bolstered operations to best meet a rapidly-evolving telecommunications industry while ensuring the firm continued as the region's premier telecommunications solution provider. Specific accomplishments include: bringing fast, reliable internet connectivity to Montana communities, investing in more than 70 miles of fiber-optic network in the Helena and Billings markets, creating a new Business Development department and a more robust marketing team, and completing the acquisition of iConnect Montana, Vision Net’s first acquisition in its 27-year history. Jensen was also intimately involved in the formation of INDATEL Services, a telecommunications company based in Kansas City, Missouri. He served on its board of directors for eleven years, serving as Chairman of the board for seven years.
“On behalf of Vision Net's Board of Directors, we thank Corey for his many years of dedicated service and leadership,” said Vision Net Board Chairman Jason Moothart. “Under his guidance, Vision Net is well-positioned in the marketplace and remains in a strong financial position. Corey's dedication to the organization, its employees, and overall success will be greatly missed.”
Vision Net’s Board of Directors remains committed to finding a successor with shared corporate values to lead the company. During this transition, Gary Evans, Vision Net’s Operations Manager, will serve as interim CEO. Evans joined the company in 2002 where has had direct responsibility for Vision Net’s E911 service, MPLS/IP network, Data Center services, facilities, and NOC.
About Vision Net
For over 25 years, Vision Net has provided a full suite of B2B telecommunications solutions to financial services, healthcare, government, professional and educational clients, allowing them to innovate and expand in Montana and beyond. With offices in Great Falls, Billings, Missoula, and Helena, Vision Nets gives its clients the peace of mind to concentrate on their business by providing a secure, agile, and adaptable network built for their needs and budget. Vision Net is proud to be Montana's largest independent network and proud to call Montana home.
In June, I had the opportunity to represent Vision Net at the 2022 NENA Conference and Expo in Louisville, Kentucky. I was able to connect (or even better, reconnect) with numerous 9-1-1 industry leaders, subject matter experts, vendors, and old friends to get a glimpse of the future of 9-1-1 across the United States.
NENA is the National Emergency Number Association and is responsible for developing standards, training curriculum, leadership, and outreach for the 9-1-1 community. From their website: ‘NENA is the only non-profit organization solely focused on improving 9-1-1. The organization represents tens of thousands of hard-working 9-1-1 first-responders who assist individuals in crisis and play a vital role in almost every emergency’. Vision Net has been a member of NENA for almost 15 years, and we’ve supported 9-1-1 in Montana since 2006.
Monday’s activities included NENA’a opening session featuring speeches from NENA’s Board of Directors 2021-2022 President Jennifer White, and the introduction of incoming President Laurie Anderson. They also announced this year’s Gold Line Scholarship winners and challenged NENA members to raise $30,000 for next year’s recipients. The NENA Gold Line scholarship provides funds for 9-1-1 dispatchers and managers who might not otherwise be able to attend. By Wednesday, we had raised well over $31,000, thanks to matching contributions from T-Mobile and RapidSOS!
Monday morning’s session was highlighted by motivational speaker (and tour drummer for P!nk) Mark Schulman. Mark had everyone up and moving! He has performed with Cher, Billy Idol, Foreigner, Stevie Nicks, Beyonce’, and many others.
The rest of the Monday and Tuesday was all about the Trade Show! It’s been a couple of years since I’ve been able to visit and catch up with people that I’ve been working within the industry for so many years. I was also able to get ‘hands-on’ with the latest technology for 9-1-1 call-taking and location information. I got demonstrations from companies such as Intrado, Synergem, MicroAutomation, ECaTS, and Carbyne. I also spent time discussing technical challenges with Sales technicians from Motorola (Thanks, guys!). There were around 125 different booths, with vendors, consultants, and experts from every facet of Public Safety.
The 3 days were also filled with numerous Break-Out sessions with opportunities to learn about subjects as varied as the future of 9-1-1, Cybersecurity (that one’s always pretty full!), GIS mapping data, training and staffing, and Resilience for 9-1-1 professionals. I was personally able to attend workshops on 9-1-1 leadership, mental wellness (we all need that!), and FEMA’s IPAWS Alerting system.
On Wednesday, we were introduced to NENA's Board of Directors for the coming year and were entertained after lunch by Motivational Keynote Speaker Connie Podesta (Yes, I’m a triangle 😊 ).
On Thursday, even though the conference was ‘officially’ over, I attended a 5-hour Bootcamp in preparation for taking the ENP (Emergency Number Professional) Certification. The cert will be 50% technical (my forte) and 50% PSAP Management (notmy forte).
The week was also filled with some events for a little fun and a chance to see Louisville, including a 5k Run/Walk for charity on Saturday, a visit to the Louisville Slugger factory, several tours of the Louisville PD Dispatch center, and Wednesday night’s closing celebration at Churchill Downs in the Kentucky Derby Museum!
It was an excellent opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, make some new friends, work with the newest in 9-1-1 technology, and have just a little R&R.
Bill Daniels is Vision Net 9-1-1 Supervisor, he and his team are responsible for maintaining and monitoring Montana’s IP-based Emergency Services network (or ESINet), Network centers in Billings and Missoula, and the 9-1-1 call-taking equipment in many of those counties. He cannot resist spicy food, especially in chocolate.
SHARE THE VISION CONFERENCE 2022
Over the 2-day Share the Vision Conference at the Northern Hotel in Billings, Vision Net employees provided updates on each department's projects and progress, where we are at coming out of COVID, and keeping the shareholders informed on our future. Our very own Ben Mayo and Seth Boucher shared Updates on the VN network and transit posture.
Shawn Helmbrecht, the newest addition to Vision Net's portfolio of services, shared his passion for the industry and was proud to be a part of a forward-thinking company. The data center brings another layer of protection for our customers.
Rocky Erickson, Vision Net's keynote speaker on the first day, shared stories of being a sportscaster in today's world. Aired on 50 stations across the state to bring a little humor to the sports fans.
Panel discussions included information on robocalls, network security, supply chain - lead-time issues, legislative updates, and technology overviews. The Share the Vision conference is an excellent opportunity to unite different departments and shareholders across the state and ensure goals are aligned.
Scott Paul, with Nemont, was the lucky winner of this year's drawing for a drone! Congratulations Scott!
For evening entertainment we had a Cornhole Tournament on Tuesday.
2022 VISION NET GOLF TOURNAMENT
On a beautiful June 9th, Vision Net employees, shareholders, and clients enjoyed an amazing day of golf at Briarwood Country Club for the 20th annual Vision Net Golf Tournament. The visors, hats, sunscreen, and snacks were a plus on such a nice day! This annual scramble is a great way to connect, network, and enjoy the gorgeous Billings landscape! Thank you to everyone who attended the tournament; we look forward to seeing you next year! We had a record 23 teams register!!!
Congratulations to Kirk Hansen with First Interstate Bank, Ken Meyer with Vision Net, Jeff Slavick with Yellowstone County, and Bob Duncan with Global Fiber Vision for winning this year's scramble!
Meet our employee spotlight of the month: Erin Jimison, Vision Net’s Executive Sales Manager with our Wholesale department, loves the work-Life balance provided with this opportunity.
What is your position at Vision Net and what do you do?
I’m the Executive Sales Manager for our Wholesale Division so I’m the main point of contact for our customers as they seek out our Wholesale services and expertise.
How long have you worked at Vision Net?
Nine months.
What made you choose Vision Net?
I had the opportunity to attend Vision Net’s Open House in 2020. I was quite taken by the interactions I had with the Vision Net team members I met that day. There was an obvious company culture of respect and teamwork. I remember leaving Granite Tower thinking it must be a great place to have a career. Consequently, when an opportunity to join the company presented itself, I knew it was something I needed to thoughtfully consider, despite the fact I was not looking for a change.
What 3 words describe Vision Net?
Quality, Accountability, and Synergy.
What is your favorite Vision Net perk?
A healthy work/life balance.
What is your favorite thing you have learned at Vision Net?
I have enjoyed learning how each of our customers operates and how we customize our services to meet their objectives. The same goes for our shareholders and partners. Each is different and we try to tailor our processes and communication so we can work better with each of them.
What challenges do you enjoy at Vision Net?
Challenges at Vision Net are endless. I’m learning every day. And some of our most seasoned, highly knowledgeableteam members say the very same thing. I find that encouraging. It’s ok I still don’t have all the answers.
Are there any projects you have worked on that you’re proud of?
I’m proud to be involved in anything Vision Net-related.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the Vision Net team?
I appreciate my colleagues’ attitudes and commitment to their craft. When I ask for help, I have been met with thoughtful explanations and support.
What advice do you have for prospective Vision Net candidates?
Don’t hesitate. Put yourself out there even if you are unsure if your experience or knowledge base is sufficient. If you are willing to work hard, your efforts will be met by our team of professionals willing to support you and educate you.
What is something people would never guess you do in your role?
I don’t think there’s anything that would surprise anyone. I will say, however, that one thing that doesn’t get said enough about Sales professionals in general is that we are only as good as our team and service. Having quality operations, seamless processes, meticulous colleagues – is my and anyone else in Sales #1 advantage. Customers won’t continue to buy from you if you can’t back it up post-sale.
With the changes in technology, what is the greatest innovation you have seen in your lifetime?
I believe how we communicate and interact with one another has transformed our lives most significantly.
Do you have any talents or hobbies?
I’m an avid runner.
How do you define success?
Success isn’t a place or juncture that you arrive at one day. Rather, it’s a mind-set and approach to life and all its challenges.
Vision Net Hosts Business 4 Breakfast with the Chamber!
Vision Net hosted its first Business 4 Breakfast with the Great Falls Chamber. Being a part of the business community brings amazing people together that share the same vision.
Michelle Dahl, one of Vision Net's Account Executives, shared how we provide the 911 network for the state of Montana. 275,000 911 calls came in this past year.
People are ready to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather in Montana, Even if it means getting up early for an amazing breakfast by Lyndsay Gutierrez, with Nourish, and coffee from Double Barrel.
Vision Net goes to the Job Jamboree!
Vision Net was one of many venders looking for employees in this tough market. Based on the turnout, there are a lot of openings in our community, and many people to fill them.
Kids just out of high school, to adults that are retired, but looking for some extra money on the side. Looking for IT specific positions to fill, there were a few candidates that will be great follow ups.
