Vision Net Unveils the Mountain West Region's First 800Gb/s Network with Major Phase 1 Upgrade

GREAT FALLS, Mont., January 8, 2025 (Newswire.com) - Vision Net, a leading provider of network and technology solutions for carriers, enterprise businesses, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions, announced a series of significant network upgrades aimed at increasing bandwidth options for clients. The upgrade introduces the Mountain West region's first 800Gb/s network, setting a new benchmark for speed, capacity, and reliability.

The investment reflects Vision Net's ongoing commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions and enhancing service offerings across its entire network. The upgrade will significantly expand bandwidth capabilities and improve service delivery for Vision Net's diverse clientele.

The 800Gb/s network infrastructure enhances interconnection between Vision Net's two data centers in Billings, MT, enabling faster, more efficient cloud services and a stronger native network. This will empower businesses with unparalleled connectivity and accelerate the delivery of high-performance services.

Vision Net's 800Gb/s network leverages Ciena's (NYSE:CIEN) innovative optical and multi-layer network control technologies. Ciena's 6500WaveLogic 5 Extreme 800Gb/s transceivers and programmable photonics make possible higher capacities at a lower cost and eliminate the need for frequent regeneration. Additionally, Ciena's Navigator Network Control Suite, featuring Liquid Spectrum, allows dynamic scaling of line rates to meet evolving customer requirements. To meet project deadlines, Ciena Services provided integration of the solution-including design, staging, deployment, turnup, and testing - and is providing maintenance services to ensure optimal network performance.

"As demand for higher bandwidth continues to grow, we are committed to staying ahead of the curve with investments that make a real difference for our clients and communities," said Rob Worden, President and CEO of Vision Net. "These upgrades are designed to not only improve the quality of service today, but also position our network to handle the evolving needs of our clients into the future."

The Phase 1 upgrade is just the beginning. Vision Net will expand its network coverage regionally, with plans to extend services to Bozeman, MT, by spring 2025. This expansion will help businesses access reliable, high-bandwidth services, positioning Vision Net as a key driver of regional economic growth.

"Vision Net is an established leader in the Mountain West region, and these forward-looking technology upgrades exemplify their proactive approach to fortifying their network to seamlessly satisfy escalating bandwidth demands," said Kevin Sheehan, CTO of the Americas, Ciena.

In addition to regional expansion, Vision Net is integrating advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, into its network architecture. The company is also investing in further data center facility improvements to meet the demands of an increasingly digital-first world.

Vision Net's 800Gb/s network is setting the stage for even greater innovation and service offerings in the coming years. As the company continues to expand its footprint and enhance its technology stack, it remains dedicated to providing the highest level of customer satisfaction and ensuring that clients have access to the best network and cloud-based solutions available.

Notably, Vision Net is also utilizing Ciena's routing and switching solutions, including the 5164 Router and 8110 Coherent Aggregation Router, in its network infrastructure to power the efficient provisioning of carrier-managed services.

For more information about Vision Net's network upgrades or to learn more about their services, visit www.vision.net.

Aurora Apartments Selects Vision Net as Exclusive Provider for High-Speed Internet and Advanced Wi-Fi Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GREAT FALLS, MT – October 12, 2023 – Vision Net, a leading network and telecom services provider headquartered in Great Falls, is excited to announce its strategic partnership with Aurora Apartments, a premier residential complex developed by Farran Realty Partners. Vision Net will serve as the exclusive provider of high-speed internet and Wi-Fi services specially designed for Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs), delivering unmatched connectivity, and enhancing the resident experience in this unique living space.

Jim McLeod, Managing Partner at Farran Realty Partners, stressed the vital role of high-quality Wi-Fi in today's interconnected world, stating, "Delivering top-notch Wi-Fi was paramount for our vibrant, technology-driven community. Vision Net's exceptional capabilities made them the natural choice to establish a secure and efficient network while staying within our budget."

Vision Net has built a distinguished reputation for its robust network infrastructure and telecom services, with a specific focus on enhancing connectivity for commercial buildings. Rob Worden, CEO of Vision Net, expressed his excitement for the partnership, saying, "We're excited to bring Aurora residents lightning-fast speeds and seamless coverage that matches their expectations. Our solutions align perfectly with Aurora's goal of delivering a modern, connected living experience."

Vision Net transforms the residential experience by granting each resident their private Wi-Fi network, enabling complete control over device prioritization, content filtering, and more. Additionally, their state-of-the-art Network Operations Center (NOC) ensures 24/7 monitoring and support tailored for the unique challenges of a Multi-Dwelling Unit setting.

Jim McLeod further highlighted the benefits for residents, stating, "The ability for residents to move in and instantly access the internet significantly enhances their living experience. Partnering with Vision Net enables us to provide ultra-fast and dependable Wi-Fi throughout Aurora Apartments, backed by exceptional local support."

Michelle Dahl, Vision Net's Account Executive, played a pivotal role in establishing this partnership. McLeod noted, "Working with Michelle was a fantastic experience. Her expertise and responsiveness streamlined the process and made it exceptionally efficient."

This partnership highlights Vision Net's reputation as a trusted network provider, and its commitment to empowering Montana businesses with secure, scalable solutions. As Vision Net continues expanding its footprint, this milestone underscores the company’s dedication to the communities it serves, cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

For more information about Vision Net and our services, click here to contact our team!

About Vision Net

Vision Net, founded in 1995, is a Montana-based telecom company delivering a wide range of cutting-edge communications solutions. With offices in Great Falls, Billings, Helena, and Missoula, Vision Net is committed to providing businesses with the most reliable, secure, and scalable telecom solutions.

About Aurora Apartments

Aurora Apartments is a new premier community constructed by Farran Realty Partners in Great Falls, MT. With thoughtful amenities and design, Aurora offers residents a comfortable, connected lifestyle.

For more on Aurora apartments: https://www.auroragreatfalls.com/

Media Contact:

Thaisa Souza

(406) 467-4720 

Robert Worden Begins Tenure as New CEO of Vision Net

—Customer Care, Growth, and Innovation top new leader’s agenda—

(Great Falls, MT) — Robert Worden, the new President and CEO of Vision Net, began his tenure at the helm of the Montana-based telecommunications company on Monday, July 10, 2023. With over thirty years of telecom and technology management experience, Worden is thrilled to take on this role and lead Vision Net into the next growth phase.

"Joining Vision Net is an exciting opportunity for me," Worden expressed. "I am truly enthusiastic about the chance to build upon the remarkable work already accomplished by the Vision Net team and further enhance our efforts in providing fast, reliable Internet access for Montana businesses. Together, we'll drive innovation in our solutions and deliver an exceptional customer experience that meets the evolving needs of our valued customers."

Worden noted that Vision Net is well-positioned to capitalize on the telecom sector's rapid technological advancements and industry transformation. "The emergence of artificial intelligence, the deployment of 5G networks, and the increasing importance of cybersecurity are all rapidly transforming the industry," he said. "Vision Net is prepared to seize opportunities and overcome challenges in this dynamic landscape and remains committed to staying at the forefront of industry advancements."

Worden comes to Vision Net after having held leadership positions in Telecom, Systems Integration and Technology Consulting. He holds a BA degree from the University of Calgary and an MA degree from the University of Leeds.

His return to Montana adds a personal connection to his professional journey. "Much of my youth and professional career were spent in Montana, I have always cherished the state's beauty, the warm hospitality of its people, and the sense of community," Worden shared. "My wife and I are thrilled to call the Treasure State our home and contribute to its continued growth and success."

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 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 Board of Directors Announces New President and CEO Robert Worden

(Great Falls, MT) The Board of Directors of Vision Net, Inc., is pleased to announce and welcome Robert Worden as the new President and CEO of Vision Net, effective July 3, 2023.

Worden brings over thirty years of telecom and technology management experience to this role, most recently with Fujitsu as the Head of United States Broadband Operations. In this position, he led teams responsible for the design, building, operation, and maintenance of wired and wireless municipal and utility broadband networks, mass transit networks, and the first public-private middle-mile network in the United States, Kentucky Wired.


“The board is excited to announce Robert Worden as the next Vision Net CEO. We look forward to adding his leadership, unique perspective, and valuable experiences to an already strong organization. Please welcome Robert and his family as they make the transition to Great Falls” – Jason Moothart, Board chair.

This image shows Vision Net new CEO & President, Robert Worden.
Robert Worden - Vision Net's new President & CEO.


"I'm thrilled to become a part of Vision Net," Worden says. "What drew me in is how valuable the company is, with its talented employees and powerful business model ready to capitalize on the dynamic changes in the telecom industry."

Worden previously held leadership positions at Frontier Communications and Sebastian, where he helped direct strategies to connect and manage thousands of network customers across the Western United States. He also served as a Silicon Valley-based CTO/CIO consultant on wired, wireless and cloud technologies.

Worden was also a member of the California Communications Association and a board member for two California college foundations. An industry thought leader, he has produced published works on technology subjects and has been an invited speaker to the Fiber Broadband Association, Utilities Technology Council, National Tribal Telecommunications Broadband Summits, and National Telephone Cooperative Association, among other industry events.

Worden holds BA and MA degrees from the University of Calgary and the University of Leeds, respectively, and presently resides in McKinney, Texas. With his wife, Holly, Robert will move north to take residence in Great Falls.

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 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.



Transport Services is now Wholesale Carrier Services.

Vision Net's Transport Services has rebranded to Wholesale Carrier Services. The new name reflects the industry's shift from basic connectivity to a broader range of solutions. Our Wholesale Carrier Services department provides fiber optic services such as Carrier Ethernet, Wavelength, Wireless/Mobile Backhaul, SONET/TDM, and Dark Fiber. The Wholesale Carrier Network spans state-wide, extending to neighboring states and complemented by connectivity throughout the United States and Canada. 

Wholesale Carrier Services acknowledges the growing importance of these services in the industry and meets the evolving needs of businesses for comprehensive communication solutions. 

We're not a Trucking Firm

The new name also addresses the elephant long in the room. As Vision Net Transport Services Manager Lee Kimmet points out, people occasionally confused the department with a transportation business. "We're definitely not a trucking company," Kimmet said, "although there are some commonalities—logistics, reliability, dedication, and service." 

New Name. Same Quality Experience

While the department's name may have changed, the industry expertise, knowledgeable service, and outstanding customer experience you've come to expect from Vision Net have not. "Vision Net has made a name for itself as a reliable business partner providing the best in carrier-class service," Kimmet said. "That's a priority for us, no matter what name we’re using." 

Learn more about Wholesale Carrier Services here.

Vision Net Opens the Doors on its Newest Data Center

Customers and community invited to an open house and tour in Billings on 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:

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.

Vision Net Acquires iConnect Montana, Bringing Together Two of the State’s Leading Telecom Solutions Providers

The acquisition bolsters Vision Net’s data center offerings and expertise 

Vision Net has acquired iConnect Montana. The move positions Vision Net to meet increased customer demand in the rapidly-evolving telecommunications industry—notably the increasing demand for edge computing. The company now will offer its clients data center services in addition to its already-robust suite of technology solutions.

(May 2, 2022) Billings, Mont. — Vision Net, Inc., a Montana-based telecommunications solution provider, today announced the acquisition of iConnect Montana. iConnect Montana provides network connectivity and data center services to customers across the Big Sky state. Both firms will now operate under the Vision Net name and brand. Existing iConnect customers can expect the same level of excellence they’ve long enjoyed and with no disruption to their service.

Of the acquisition, Vision Net CEO Corey Jensen said that the two businesses, which enjoy a working relationship, have long been committed to delivering solutions that ensure Montana can compete regionally and nationally for businesses requiring these services to operate.

“The iConnect acquisition bolsters Vision Net’s suite of services, enabling us to deliver a more comprehensive, end-to-end customer experience,” he said. “Increasingly, firms seek data center solutions to reduce cost and latency and bolster security. Bringing iConnect’s data center services and its team of experts under the Vision Net banner positions us to fully address this growing need."

iConnect Chairman and CEO Craig Gates agrees, noting that the demand for edge computing—running fewer processes in the cloud and bringing them and data storage closer to the customer—will drive growth in the data center space. "Bringing the two companies together at this time is a perfect mix of services.  VisionNet has built a great reputation serving the customers of Montana through its network that reaches across the state.  iConnect has been the premier data center in Montana and this allows both companies to join as a platform for all the next-gen applications that demand low latency and faster processing speeds to be delivered by edge computing,” he said. “The acquisition is a highly strategic move that fortifies the position of both companies as industry leaders in the region.”

iConnect Montana was founded in 1999 by three Montana telephone cooperatives to provide neutral network connectivity and data center services for telecommunications, e-commerce, and Internet-based businesses. Data centers—also known as fiber hotels—allow businesses to enjoy the benefits of a carrier-grade central office-type facility without bearing the upfront costs of building and maintaining the associated infrastructure. iConnect Montana operates facilities in Billings, Helena and Missoula.

Incorporated in 1995 by five Montana telephone cooperatives, Vision Net has a 27-year history of serving the needs of the Montana business community. Its telecommunications solutions include broadband network wholesale, internet services, design, and management of customized wide-area network (WAN) solutions, including SD-WAN, end-point, and network security products. Its connectivity expertise can be found across healthcare, education, banking and finance, engineering, and government.

The move is the latest in a string of strategic endeavors undertaken by Vision Net to remain at the forefront of the telecom industry and ensure area businesses have access to the most innovative solutions available. For example, in recent years, it funded critical broadband fiber infrastructure in Helena and Billings. Likewise, it has focused heavily on its corporate culture, building a Montana-friendly workplace that inspires creativity, passion, and accountability. Jensen noted that iConnect Montana boasts this same Big Sky sensibility, an attribute his team found appealing.

"Vision Net’s culture is central to who we are so it was critical that we share core values with iConnect Montana," he said. "I have no doubt that this will make for a more seamless transition as we welcome the iConnect Montana team to our company."

Vision Net remains headquartered in Great Falls with offices in Billings, Missoula, and Helena. 

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.

Jayson Olthoff Joins Vision Net in Newly-Created Marketing Associate Position

Leading Montana Telecom Welcomes Community Leader to its Roster.

Great Falls, Mont. — Vision Net, Inc., a Montana-based telecommunications solution provider, announced that Jayson Olthoff has joined the company as a marketing associate. In this newly created position, Olthoff will support the company's brand objectives through events and digital marketing. Likewise, he will leverage his extensive community relations and leadership experience to guide the firm as it continues to expand its presence within the telecom industry.

Olthoff is a well-known figure in the Great Falls business community, having founded the popular CAB (coffee and business) professional development networking group and as an agent/owner of the Olthoff Insurance Agency. He's additionally served as an owner/agent for LegalShield, a direct-to-consumer legal services company.

On his decision to join Vision Net, Olthoff said, "This new position will allow me to tap my passion daily, creating and sharing the stories behind the vision and mission of a highly-regarded Montana business and its employees."

Vision Net marketing manager Thaisa Souza noted that she is excited to welcome Jayson to the company and is "enthusiastic about what we will accomplish together."

"Jayson is results-oriented, friendly, and highly collaborative, all of which makes him a strong cultural fit for our company," Souza said. "Our community relationships and the organizations we support are integral to who we are as a business. We're excited to have Jayson join us as we continue to deepen our connections to the local community."

While not a Montana native, Olthoff has long called the city home, having first lived in Great Falls when stationed at Malstrom Air Force Base in1987. "I immediately felt at home here," he said. And while his military career took him across the country and the world, Great Falls was always top of mind. When it was time to retire from his military career, Olthoff knew exactly where he wanted to put down roots.

"Great Falls always held a special appeal for me, and I'm proud to have built such a rich and rewarding life here," he said. "This new role at Vision Net will position me to continue contributing to the community in a new and meaningful way. It's a wonderful opportunity."

About Vision Net

For over 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 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.

Vision Net Taps Bob Terwilliger to Serve as the Company’s First Chief Financial Officer

Montana Telecom Leader Poised for Continued Growth

Billings, Mont. — Vision Net, Inc., a Montana-based telecommunications solution provider, today announced the addition of Bob Terwilliger in the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In this newly created position, Terwilliger will oversee the firm’s financial affairs, providing strategic financial and operational leadership. 

Terwilliger brings deep experience to the position, having held previous CFO roles at MRL Equipment Co., Janicki Bioenergy, Provitro Biosciencesand Ryzex, Inc. Early in his career, Terwilliger worked in the telecommunications industry for firms including Sprint, Nextel International, GST Telecommunications, and Birch Telecommunications, noting that this was in the early days of mobile technology.

“It’s exciting to come full circle and re-enter the field at yet another significant juncture,” Terwilliger said. “The emergence of AI, 5G, and other nascent technologies promises impressive changes in the telecommunications space in the coming years.”

Vision Net CEO Corey Jensen is pleased to welcome Terwilliger to the company, noting that he brings important expertise to the position.

“Bob is highly strategic and operationally focused. These were key considerations for me as I thought through this new role. We’re fortunate to have an incredibly strong accounting team which will allow Bob to focus on those areas in which he excels: growth and forward-leaning strategies. Likewise, he brings a depth of experience from varied industries including biotech, startups, and manufacturing. I’m excited to glean best practices and perhaps new ideas from him.”

Terwilliger holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Washington State University and will be based in the company’s Billings office. And while not a Montana native, Terwilliger’s wife, Carol, is — and both are thrilled to stay in the city where she grew up and has family ties. “We love the community and the lifestyle here,” he said.

Additionally, Terwilliger is eager to be part of Vision Net’s company culture.

“For me, a company’s culture is just as important as its business sector,” he said. “Vision Net is a highly respected business made up of really good people who work hard but also have fun. And the respect they hold for one another is quite apparent. I’m absolutely thrilled to join the Vision Net team.” 

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.