As we approach the end of another significant year, I’m reflecting on what sets Smart City Networks apart. Beyond our industryleading services and technological innovations, it’s our unwavering commitment to caring for our communities that shines the brightest. With success comes the responsibility to give back, and I’m incredibly proud of how our teams have embraced this mission throughout 2024.
During our annual Month of Service, our local teams at partnered convention centers across the nation went above and beyond, volunteering their time and talents to support their communities. From volunteering at local food banks, to participating in community cleanups, their efforts have made a meaningful difference. Their dedication not only strengthens the neighborhoods where we live and work but also reinforces our company’s core values.
This quarter also saw exciting developments including participation in industry events like IAEE’s Expo! Expo! and the continued success of our Promotional Evaluation Testing (PET) program. Hearing the stories of team members advancing their careers through PET has been incredibly inspiring. These achievements highlight the dedication, passion, and drive that define our company culture.
As we wrap up 2024, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Smart City Networks. This is also a time to come together. From our annual General Manager’s meeting and holiday celebrations to time spent with loved ones. These gatherings remind us of the importance of unity and recognizing our shared achievements.
Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited about the opportunities on the horizon. We will continue to innovate, strengthen our community partnerships, and find new ways to make a positive impact.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful New Year! To the Top!
THE VERY TOP!
Smart City Networks would like to congratulate Mohamad Sumren at America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis on his promotion to Technical Customer Representative! General Manager Tommie Beltz praised Mohamad’s hard work and dedication to excellence, which earned him this well-deserved advancement. Mohamad has consistently gone above and beyond to provide exceptional service and support. We are excited to see him continue thriving in his new role. Great job, Mohamad! Keep up the fantastic work!
LEADERSHIP ADVANCE
Jacoby Bancroft recently graduated from the Leadership Advance program; an intensive fivemonth leadership development course offered exclusively through the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. Through specialized training with Aegis Learning, Jacoby enhanced essential skills such as communication, strategic decision-making, and emotional intelligence. This achievement shows a commitment to growing both personally and professionally, making him an even stronger leader. Well done, Jacoby, and best wishes for success and growth in this next chapter of your career!
ESTABLISHING GOOD RAPPORT
Albert Kwong recently completed Rapport Leadership Breakthrough One, marking an important milestone in his professional journey. This immersive program focuses on building leadership experience through hands-on training and personal reflection. Albert’s drive to enhance his leadership abilities is inspiring, and his success demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous learning. We look forward to seeing how he applies these valuable insights at Smart City Networks. Well done, Albert!
SMART CITY NETWORKS AT IAEE’S EXPO! EXPO!
Smart City Networks recently participated as both an Exhibitor and Strategic Partner at IAEE’s Expo! Expo!, held this year at the Los Angeles Convention Center. As part of our sponsorship, Smart City provided Wi-Fi for the event, ensuring attendees and exhibitors stayed connected throughout the conference.
A special shoutout to the amazing team in Los Angeles, whose hard work and expertise ensured a smooth setup and flawless execution for the event! It was a fantastic opportunity for our executive team to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and demonstrate the value we bring to the events industry. We are already looking forward to next year when Expo! Expo! will take place at another Smart City venue: the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, TX.
SAN DIEGO CELEBRATES 35 YEARS!
Congratulations to the San Diego Convention Center on 35 incredible years! The milestone was marked with a special private event attended by former board members, show managers, city officials, members of our local San Diego team, and Smart City Networks’ Senior Vice President, Julia Slocombe.
We take great pride in our enduring partnership with the San Diego Convention Center and our involvement in the San Diego community, and we are honored to be part of this celebration. Here is to many more successful years ahead!
SERGIO RAMIREZ
At Smart City Networks, one of our core business principles has always been “It’s the People,” and we strive to highlight our wonderful team whenever possible. The Smart City Spotlight is dedicated to boosting our team members for their extraordinary work and dedication to serving our customers.
Sergio Ramirez, Event Coordinator at the Santa Clara Convention Center brings a unique blend of skills to his role.
Since joining Smart City Networks, he has leveraged his hospitality background and passion for IT to deliver exceptional experiences for clients and exhibitors alike. Sergio recently shared his journey with us, including how building his own PC during the pandemic sparked a love for technology!
Sergio Ramirez, this is your Spotlight!
HI SERGIO! I WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT THE EVENTS INDUSTRY?
S: My background is in the hospitality industry, where I’ve always been involved in events with a unique perspective. I have experience working in catering, restaurants, and production companies, which allowed me to see events from a different angle. Joining Smart City gave me the opportunity to bring even more value to the event experience.
WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO SMART CITY?
S: During COVID, my interest in IT and technology really took off—I decided to tackle building my own PC from scratch! While it was challenging, it sparked a passion that led me to take an IT class, where I discovered a particular fascination with internet infrastructure. When I learned about Smart City’s role in network infrastructure at the SCCC, I immediately saw an exciting opportunity to deepen my skills and take on new challenges.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
S: My favorite part of the job is working with tech events. I love the energy and innovation that comes with these types of events, as they provide a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology. Whether it’s setting up intricate AV systems, coordinating live-streams, or troubleshooting on-the-fly technical issues, I thrive in the fast-paced environment. I also enjoy the challenge of collaborating with tech experts and clients to ensure everything runs smoothly and seamlessly. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the final result come together, knowing that we’ve helped showcase the latest advancements in technology.
WHAT IS SOMETHING FUN THAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
S: I really love broadcasting at high bandwidths! It’s exciting to keep up with the streaming community, especially watching marathon streams and the latest IRL trends. I’m always geeking out over the new tech that lets streamers bring their content to life in top quality, no matter where they are. Staying tuned in to how technology keeps evolving in the streaming world is one of my favorite things to do!
ALEXIS FLORES
To learn more about Sergio Ramirez and Alexis Flores, as well as view all our past Smart City Spotlights, check out our blog!
CLICK HERE
Alexis Flores, based at the Los Angeles Convention Center, joined Smart City in July 2022 as a part-time Customer Service Representative and has since been promoted to a full-time role. With her job title transitioning from CSSR I to CSSR II recently, Alexis continues to demonstrate her passion and commitment to her work. This spotlight offers a glimpse into Alexis’s journey, her growth within the company, and her unique contributions to Smart City.
Alexis Flores, this is your spotlight!
HI ALEXIS! TO START, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES?
A: My day-to-day job entails reviewing orders and making sure they match the floor plan submitted, along with making sure the customer is ordering the correct service. I’m the only CSR at this center, which makes me every exhibitor’s main contact. Some days it feels like the work never ends, but other days I’m wishing more work came in. It’s a good balance.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
A: I’m constantly looking at complicated hardline floor plans, and sometimes I can’t see the vision, so my favorite part of the job is seeing those booths come to life.
HAVE YOU HAD A FAVORITE EVENT SO FAR? WHAT MADE IT FUN?
A: My favorite event so far has been RuPaul’s DragCon. I look forward to seeing the different outfits and looks that the Queens serve. They’re the reason that the event is so fun and alive.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR CONVENTION CENTER?
A: What I like the most about this convention center is the architecture and how it’s built. I like when I get to come into work earlier than usual because I love looking through the glass and seeing the downtown buildings. I grew up in L.A., and as a child, I would always pass by this building and wonder what it was like inside. Every day I think of that when I come to work.
ANY ADVICE FOR NEW HIRES WHO ARE JUST STARTING AT SMART CITY?
A: I would say patience is key. When I first started here, I felt very overwhelmed with the all the steps I had to take to process and verify an order. You just have to be patient with yourself and eventually you will do the same thing so much it comes naturally.
AT THE TOP AN INTERN’S VIEW
Melody Rose Ramirez, a Cristo Rey High School Intern with Smart City Networks, wrote a letter reflecting on her internship experience. During her time with Smart City, she worked on projects across various departments, including designing her own marketing campaign for an event, see images below. Here, she shares her insights and experiences, along with some photos of her marketing work.
Being an intern at Smart City has shown me a lot about the company’s mission and success in giving back as a technology and hospitality company. I’ve had the opportunity to see how the company functions, from its marketing team to its human resources department.
The accounting department, in particular, was a major highlight for me. I would work with many numbers, bills, and checks. It helped me be a quicker counter, better at memorizing multiple sets of numbers, being able to write checks after checks, and being able to write checks for different conventions and companies. Accounting not only aligns with my future major at UNLV but also taught me the most during my time here.
Marketing also helped me work better with social media and what catches the eye better. When I make posts or make examples and templates for Smart City, it helps me be more creative and use my brain more.
Customer service also helped me with being able to find good and bad in situations and find ways to make them better. From finding all types of floor plans and what’s the best fit for the event, to making sure that all companies get the service they deserve. It helps me be more caring and think of what I can do to make their experience better and what problems I can solve.
As a future UNLV student who is double majoring in Hospitality & Accounting, SCN has given me so much knowledge for my future.
CALIFORNIA!
The Miami Beach Convention Center knows how to throw a fantastic holiday party! Their annual Holiday Gathering brought the entire team together to celebrate the season and enjoy each other’s company. The event featured an abundance of delicious food, fun activities, and a stunning display of holiday desserts highlighted by a giant doughnut wall! Homer Simpson would have been delighted! While Miami’s temperatures might not dip too low, the festive spirit was certainly in full swing!
The Smart City Networks teams from the Los Angeles and Anaheim Convention Centers came together for a festive Holiday Party at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA. Wanting even more holiday shenanigans, the teams returned to the park after a group meal to take in the holiday-themed activities and shows of “Knott’s Merry Farm.” The event was a wonderful celebration of camaraderie, highlighting the strong unity between two of our partnered center teams. It is a reminder that, while we serve different locations, we are one cohesive unit working together toward success!
FLORIDA!
LAS VEGASHOLIDAY PARTY!
Smart City Networks’ 2024 Corporate Holiday Party was one of our best yet! Held at Serendipity Events in Las Vegas, the masquerade-themed celebration was the perfect opportunity to connect outside the office and reflect on an incredible year together. The food was exceptional, the venue was charming, and we were thrilled to spend time with one another outside the office.
We Care & Give Back
Across the country, Smart City Networks teams have demonstrated their commitment to giving back by participating in community-focused initiatives during the holiday season. Check out the ways each of our incredible centers contributed to making a difference in their local communities during our Month of Service.
The GRB team participated in the 23rd Annual Bike Building Event in December, organized by the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston. They helped build bikes for Child Advocates, continuing the tradition of donating thousands of bikes to Houston children since 2004.
The Santa Clara team volunteered with the Salvation Army to serve a sit-down dinner for 180 seniors on Thanksgiving. This event is part of their ongoing commitment to give back to the community, ensuring that seniors in need receive a festive and nourishing holiday meal during the season.
Santa Clara Convention Center
Salvation Army
George R. Brown Convention Center
Child Advocates
The Anaheim team continued their tradition of supporting the Orange County Family Justice Center Foundation by providing wrapped Christmas gifts for families impacted by family violence. The team purchased and wrapped gifts for a family of four, delivering them to the Foundation to help brighten their holiday season.
NRG Park volunteers supported The Beacon, providing hot homemade lunches and full laundry services to the unsheltered community. The Beacon aids individuals facing homelessness, offering nextstep services to restore hope. Smart City Networks contributed to this essential work, helping improve lives in Houston during our month of service.
NRG Park
The Beacon
Anaheim Convention Center
OC Family Justice Center Foundation
David Bachler, the new General Manager at SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, volunteered at the Sacramento Food Bank. Over four hours, he and the team helped distribute food to 269 households, making a significant impact on local families in need and supporting the food bank’s mission to fight hunger.
The LACC Smart City team volunteered at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. They sorted and packed over 9,000 pounds of food, providing nutritious meals for families in need. Collectively, the team contributed 20 hours of service, making a significant impact on the community.
Los Angeles Convention Center
LA Regional Food Bank
SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
Sacramento Food Bank
The team at the Hawai’i Convention Center volunteered with The Pantry, distributing food to families in need just before Thanksgiving. They helped sort food and directed traffic, ensuring smooth operations at this essential food pantry, which addresses food insecurity and provides free nutritious food to Oahu’s community.
Our Smart City team at KBHCCD participated in a holiday turkey preparation event for Dallas LIFE. Volunteers helped prepare turkeys for frying, providing meals for families in need. The initiative supports Dallas LIFE’s mission to feed the homeless, with each turkey feeding up to 10 people during Thanksgiving.
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
Dallas LIFE
The Pantry
Hawai’i Convention Center
Alexia Puckett participated in the Angel Tree initiative, partnering with the Salvation Army to provide gifts for children in need. She selected two cards representing children affected by homelessness or domestic violence, ensuring they received gifts to bring joy during the holiday season.
In November, the Smart City team at ICCLOS volunteered for Horseshoe Helpings, an annual event hosted by the Indianapolis Colts. Senior Event Coordinator Jenny Roeder and General Manager Ben Behnkendorf assisted in preparing meals for those in need, continuing their commitment to giving back to the community during the month of service.
Greater Columbus Convention Center
Salvation Army
Indiana Convention Center & Lucas Oil Stadium
Horseshoe Helping
Despite a packed schedule, the team at the Miami Beach Convention Center found time to give back. They helped distribute turkeys to building employees, ensuring that everyone had a meal to enjoy on Thanksgiving.
Smart City continued its nineyear tradition of supporting the Safeway Feast of Sharing. Volunteers helped serve meals to those in need while providing Wi-Fi throughout the venue. This annual event, hosted at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, benefits the local community, providing holiday meals and support services.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Feast of Sharing
Miami Beach Convention Center
Miami Beach Convention Center
The San Antonio team volunteered at the Salvation Army, distributing food to over 50 senior citizens in need. Our dedicated Smart City team delivered essential groceries like fruits, vegetables, meats, and milk, ensuring seniors had a fulfilling Thanksgiving.
The ACCC Smart City team volunteered at the New Jersey Food Bank, where they assisted with food distribution to those in need. The team also participated in decorating a tree for CASA For Children, a charity benefiting children impacted by domestic abuse in Atlantic, Cape May, and Camden Counties.
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Salvation Army
Atlantic City Convention Center
New Jersey Food Bank CASA for Children &
The Smart City team at the Minneapolis Convention Center volunteered with Second Harvest Heartland. They spent two hours filling bags with pasta and packing boxes for distribution. This was their first time volunteering with the organization, but it certainly will not be the last!
In November, our San Diego team partnered with The Surfrider Foundation where they cleaned up trash Pacific Beach. Volunteers collected trash and microplastics from the beach and surrounding neighborhood. Their efforts contributed to policy changes for the City of San Diego, helping protect the environment and ocean wildlife.
San Diego Convention Center
Surfrider Foundation
Second Harvest Heartland
Minneapolis Convention Center
America’s Center Convention Complex
General Manager Tommie Beltz and Technical Customer Representative Mohamad Sumren volunteered with Explore St. Louis Tourism’s Trash Force, helping clean up around America’s Center in St. Louis. They removed litter from the area, contributing to the cleanliness and sustainability of the building!
The Smart City Phoenix team volunteered at St. Mary’s Food Bank, supporting efforts to feed those in need. Volunteers worked to pack food and ensured it reached families experiencing food insecurity, making a difference in the community by providing vital resources to local households.
Phoenix Convention Center
St. Mary’s Food Bank
Tourism Trash Force
The team at the Kansas City Convention Center volunteered at Harvesters, a local food bank, helping to provide meals for individuals and families facing hunger. Fun fact! Our General Manager in Kansas City, Antoinette Ibarra has been volunteering at Harvesters since she was a child.
The team at the Orange County Convention Center volunteered with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orlando, assembling over 10,300 box lunches. This initiative not only provided meals to those in need but also strengthened community connections, reflecting Smart City’s core principle of “We Care and Give Back.”
Orange County Convention Center
Second Harvest Food Bank
Harvesters
Kansas City Convention Center
This year, the Smart City Networks corporate team volunteered not once, but twice at Opportunity Village in Las Vegas, supporting their mission to enrich the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During their visits, the team decorated trees and other decorations with lights and helped prepare for the organization’s Magical Forrest. After our volunteer efforts, our company was proud to make a monetary donation to the wonderful organization. Corporate
Opportunity Village
During our annual General Managers’ meeting, the leadership team at Smart City Networks volunteered at St. Mary’s Food Bank in Phoenix, Arizona. It was a wonderful experience to see all of our General Managers and Executive Team working together in harmony, packing and distributing food to those in need. The sense of teamwork and unity was truly inspiring, highlighting our commitment to serving the community and making a positive impact. It was a rewarding day that reminded us of the importance of coming together to support others. 2024 GM Meeting
St. Mary’s Food Bank
Sea Cadets: Choose Adventure
At Smart City Networks, our commitment to community extends far beyond the venues we serve. As part of our “We Care and Give Back” initiative, we asked our team members to share stories about the causes they are passionate about and how they dedicate their time to making a difference.
Karl Seeba, General Manager at the Charlotte Convention Center, shares a heartfelt connection to the Naval Sea Cadets, a U.S. Navy-sponsored youth development program. His involvement began when he enrolled his son at age 12. Karl recalls being impressed with the program’s structure, discipline, and the responsibility placed on the cadets, who follow a military command model under the guidance of adult volunteers.
The Sea Cadets offer monthly “drill” meetings, often held at Navy bases, and summer or winter training camps. These camps cover an array of fields, including SCUBA, robotics, aviation, and search and rescue. The program not only builds leadership and physical fitness but also provides scholarships and career advantages for those pursuing military service. For Karl, the Sea Cadets represent a profound opportunity to nurture young talent and instill values of service, discipline, and excellence.
Charlotte Convention Center
Naval Sea Cadets
Photos Courtesy of SeaCadets
At Smart City Networks, the spirit of giving shines brightly during the holiday season, with employees and teams stepping up to make a difference in their communities. This year, Marketing Associate Kara Roessner exemplified this generosity in a unique way by organizing the Slay Wrestling Show Toy Drive through her company, Versus Pro Wrestling. Benefiting HELP of Southern Nevada, the event invited the Las Vegas community to donate toys in exchange for tickets to a thrilling wrestling show, combining entertainment with generosity to brighten the holidays for local children.
The giving didn’t stop there. Smart City Networks’ Corporate Office also partnered with HELP of Southern Nevada, where the team shopped for and wrapped gifts for children in need. These combined efforts ensured countless kids in the Las Vegas area enjoyed a brighter and more joyful holiday season.
HELP of Southern Nevada
A NEW WI-FI RECORD!
Taylor Swift’s three-day Eras Tour concert at the Lucas Oil Stadium shattered previous Wi-Fi usage records for the venue. With thousands of fans sharing unforgettable moments online, the event pushed the network to a new high, hitting peak usage of 12.5 Gbps, showcasing its strength and reliability. We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team on-site, whose hard work and expertise ensured seamless connectivity throughout this record-breaking event.
BUGS GALORE!
Smart City Networks provided connectivity for Entomology 2024, which took place at the Phoenix Convention Center. Supporting thousands of insect science professionals as they collaborated and shared groundbreaking ideas, the event highlighted the diverse range of industries we service across all of our partnered convention centers. From scientific conferences to tech expos and everything in between, Smart City is able to deliver reliable network solutions that keep attendees connected and inspired.
*Photos Courtesy of Phoenix Convention Center
LIGHTING UP LATIN GRAMMY WEEK
For the first time in 25 years, The Latin Recording Academy held the prestigious Person of the Year award ceremony at the Miami Beach Convention Center during Latin Grammy Week.
Honoring Colombian superstar Carlos Vives, the event presented a technical challenge. Smart City Networks expertly managed broadcast infrastructure, routing camera transmissions and audio signals across the SCN Network with over 40 fiber patches and additional wireless networks, ensuring a seamless and successful event.
CELEBRATING STUDENTS
The Anaheim Tech Scholar Program, managed by the Anaheim Community Foundation, supports college-bound high school students with laptops, tablets, and internet access. As a proud Cyber Champions Sponsor, Smart City Networks attended the Award Dinner in December. Honorees were celebrated by City of Anaheim officials, including Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and Council Member Carlos A. Leon, a former award recipient. Smart City’s General Manager Kevin Patch attended the event, joining in the celebration of student success.
GROUNDBREAK BOOST!
At Groundbreak 2024, forging industry connections took center stage, and so did our Customer Service Manager in Colorado, Brittany Trombley. Her exceptional service left a lasting impression on Senior Event Manager Khrystalle Weathers, who shared:
“I know I said it about a million times onsite, but I cannot thank you enough for all of your kindness, adaptability, and just overall partnership! ... Your team needs to know just how fortunate they are to have you. I genuinely hope that our paths will cross again in the not so distant future!”
Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 was an unforgettable celebration of creativity, bringing together the world’s most exceptional artists and galleries to the Miami Beach Convention Center. From December 6 to December 8, the center transformed into a dazzling hub of artistic expression.
This year’s event featured 286 premier galleries from 38 countries and territories, showcasing their best work across various exhibition sectors. In addition to the breathtaking art, Art Basel offered engaging programs such as Conversations, a series of talks from renowned artists and curators.
The Art Basel Digital Dialogues, co-hosted by TAEX and Digital Art Week, took place on December 5 and 6 at the New World Center. This free event explored the intersection of art and technology, featuring prominent figures such as Christiane Paul from the Whitney Museum and AI artist Kevin Abosch. It is not a surprise that Smart City Networks was heavily interested in this tech talk!
As always, Smart City Networks ensured the event was supported by advanced technology solutions, providing reliable connectivity to visitors and exhibitors alike. This year, we managed an impressive 11 wireless networks throughout the facility, delivering premium speeds for seamless online experiences. Additionally, a specialized wireless network was implemented exclusively for the UBS (Union Bank of Switzerland) Lounge, supporting 200 users in the Lincoln Grand Ballroom.
Quasi Tutto, after Alighiero Boetti Vik Muniz
Paradish for All Yinka Llori
La Familia en el Alegre Verdor
Chiachio and Giannone
The Nightmare of the White Elephant
Hank WIllis Thomas
Bound Angel
Portia Munson
Interference #18
Sarah Meyohas
Spanish Moss Sanctuary
Paloma Teppa
Pedal Pushers
Lorna Robertson
Pathway
Zhu Jinshi
Portrait of Lili #2
Mickalene Thomas
La Familia en el Alegre Verdor
Chiachio and Giannone
Red Bull Flugtag returned to the Tampa Convention Center in November, bringing highflying fun and excitement to the Tampa Riverwalk. Smart City Networks had a blast watching as daring flight crews launched homemade flying machines into Tampa Bay, drawing around 80,000 spectators to the event. Did any of them reach the stars? Quite the opposite!
With a predicted economic impact of $3.4 million for the area, the competition was a thrilling spectacle for both participants and onlookers. Over 30 teams, including Team Tampa, showcased their creativity, with celebrity judges onsite to evaluate flights and pass hilarious judgment.
The event marked the third time Tampa hosted this competition, with previous Flugtags held in 2008 and 2011. Smart City Networks enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the energy and excitement as the teams competed for victory, and we wish we could have gotten in on the action ourselves! Maybe next time…
NATIONWIDE SERVICE
The San Antonio team extends its gratitude to Kenneth Nguyen, Crystal Daniels, and Kristian Kammermeyer, who traveled from other centers to support EDUCAUSE 2024 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. This large-scale tech event, one of the biggest hosted in the city this year, saw the team servicing over 100 exhibitors and 45 wireless networks. EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit focused on advancing technology in higher education, empowers its members to drive transformation and innovation.
EMPOWERING EDUCATORS
Smart City Networks is excited to highlight the Virginia Society for Technology in Education (VSTE) Conference, which has transitioned from a biannual event to an annual gathering at the Virginia Beach Convention Center for the next three years. Smart City Networks was proud to support VSTE with a facility-wide Premium 1500 device Wi-Fi buyout, along with Ethernet lines for streaming, providing reliable connectivity for all participants and exhibitors.
THE FAIR - EST OF THEM ALL!
The IAFE Convention & Trade Show, hosted by the International Association of Fairs and Expos at the Phoenix Convention Center, is the largest gathering of fair industry professionals worldwide. Attendees from small county fairs to large-scale events come together to network, exchange ideas, and explore a trade show covering all aspects of fair and event management. With its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, it is truly a one-of-a-kind event!
SKY HIGH CONNECTIONS
The APEX/IFSA Global Expo 2024 at the Long Beach Convention Center united airline, hospitality, and travel industry leaders to shape the future of air travel. Hosted by APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) and IFSA (International Flight Services Association), the event highlighted innovations in passenger experience and onboard services.
DVOX powered live streaming for keynotes, panels, and workshops, enabling global participation. Smart City provided critical connectivity, ensuring seamless operations for DVOX and all exhibitors.
Special thanks to the LBCC SCN crew — Eleazar Martinez, Francisco Cruz, Roger Cruz, Sydney Lara — and visiting GM Arnold Chavez for their exceptional support.
SUCCESS ON TROUBLED WATERS
IBEX – International Boatbuilder was a big success at the Tampa Convention Center, despite the looming threat of Hurricane Helene. Our team managed a wireless buyout, hardlines, hotspots, and exhibitor orders, all while staying prepared for weather disruptions. The client praised our team’s exceptional service:
“Madison [Grimes] is always great to work with. She is top-notch!”
Kudos to Madison and the entire SCN team for delivering seamless connectivity under pressure!
ELECTION NIGHT BOOST!
The Washington State Democratic Election Night Watch Party at the Seattle convention center was a high-stakes event, with all state nominees onsite and major news outlets streaming live. Ensuring flawless internet connectivity was crucial, and our Smart City team rose to the challenge.
Susan Newcomb, Regional Sales Manager at the convention center, praised the team’s quick thinking:
“Thanks for wrangling your areas and finding solutions to make this all happen in such a short period of time. It looks great up there and you all rock!”
At Smart City Networks, we take pride in fostering a culture of growth and development. The Promotional Evaluation Testing (PET) program embodies this commitment, providing employees with a pathway to advance their careers and strengthen their skills. This quarter, we’re celebrating the achievements of several team members who completed the program and earned well-deserved promotions:
Hector Gonzalez (GRB) Technician I to Technician II
Kevin Romero (ACC) Technician I to Technician II
Steven Sepulveda (OCCC) Technician I to Technician II
Christian DeJesus-Cruz (OCCC) Technician I to Technician II
Brandon Cooper (OCCC) Technician I to Operations Supervisor
Jomari Paguia (SDCC) Technician I to Operations Supervisor
Alexis Flores (LACC) CSSR I to CSSR II
For Jomari Paguia, the PET program was a stepping stone to career advancement. Initially aiming to move from Technician I to Technician II, Jomari found that his hard work and determination led to an unexpected opportunity: a promotion to Operations Supervisor.
“My experience with the PET program was pretty straightforward, with each section divided up nicely,” Jomari shared. “If you’ve been on top of your knowledge base as a technician, you should have no problem with the exams. Everything asked is included in the training we complete during onboarding. My advice? Use the study guides! They’re very helpful, and don’t rush. Take your time to study and prepare.”
His manager, Mike Rose, recognized Jomari’s potential and supported him throughout the process. “Jomari approached me about moving to Tech II, and it was the perfect time for him to enroll in the PET program,” Mike explained. “I guided him through additional responsibilities like assigning VLANs, setting up rate limits, and deploying hotspots under supervision. He also gained hands-on experience with fiber splicing and installing drops from an aerial lift.”
Mike added, “Jomari’s effort in completing the PET program and passing the Tech II exam was a significant factor in selecting him for the Operations Supervisor role.”
At the Anaheim Convention Center, Kevin Romero also found value in the PET program. “My experience was overall positive,” Kevin said. “It blends different aspects of our everyday tasks, ensuring we’re capable of handling the many responsibilities that come with being a technician.”
Alexis Flores, a CSSR at the Los Angeles Convention Center, became the first in her role to complete the PET program. “It was an easy, straightforward experience, but it is a long process, ” Alexis shared. “The study guide was a lifesaver. I made sure to go over it before starting each section.”
The written section posed the greatest challenge for Alexis. “I wasn’t sure how detailed I needed to be with my answers, so I decided to trust my knowledge and not overthink,” she said. Alexis credited her former Customer Service Manager as a key mentor. “She taught me everything I know and even created a Customer Service Binder that’s incredibly useful.”
Her advice for others considering the program? “Don’t overthink the questions. The PET program is based on things we do every day, so follow the company’s procedures and use the study guide. You’ve got this!”
These success stories highlight the impact of the PET program in empowering Smart City Networks employees to grow and succeed. Congratulations to all this quarter ’s graduates!
ALEXIS FLORES Los Angeles Convention Center
JOMARI PAGUIA San Diego Convention Center
Jacoby’s Jabber
Here’s a little peek behind the curtain: this Jacoby’s Jabber is being written before the holiday season for the Pinnacle that’s coming out in January. So if you don’t mind, I’m going to take a moment to chat with my future self, who’s undoubtedly re-reading this in 2025 with fresh eyes.
HI, FUTURE JACOBY!
How’s 2025 treating you? Did you stick to the promise of limiting the number of holiday cookies? No? That’s okay. Let’s be honest, you probably inhaled a cement truck’s worth of cookies to bid farewell to 2024. And you know what? That’s fine, because a new year is all about fresh starts, and indulging one last time is practically a tradition.
Now, onto the real challenge: how are those resolutions going? As I sit here reflecting on 2024, I’ve got some big plans for 2025. I want to write more. That means more blog posts, press releases, social media content, and videos.I want to connect with more people within Smart City Networks and find new ways to amplify SCN’s message. My overarching resolution? MORE. I just want to do more. While I’ve spent the back end of December planning how to accomplish all this in the New Year, I know that January won’t magically make everything fall into place. The real question is… am I still pushing myself to try?
Let’s be honest: resolutions have a reputation for fizzling out faster than a sparkler on New Year’s Eve. It’s human nature to aim high and fall short at times. Life gets busy, and obstacles pop up. But here’s the thing: it’s not about being perfect. It’s about passion and persistence. I truly believe the key to sticking with resolutions lies in setting a balance between short-term and long-term goals. For every big dream, break it into smaller, manageable steps. Daily or weekly wins can add up to monumental progress
So here’s my advice to myself and to anyone reading this: don’t give up. Stay encouraged. Keep trying, even when it feels tough. Adjust where needed, celebrate the little victories, and trust that you’re moving in the right direction. Whether it’s tackling a major project or simply sneaking fewer cookies, every step counts.
Here’s to hoping you’ve found your groove, future Jacoby, whether you’re balancing like a pro or still enjoying the occasional cookie (or three) on the side.
Do you have 2025 Smart Goals like me? Print this page and track your progress to make 2025 your most productive year yet!
2025 SMART GOALS!!
In December, Smart City Networks hosted its annual General Managers’ Meeting at the Phoenix Convention Center. The meeting brought together leadership from across the country to reflect on the year’s successes and prepare for 2025.
A standout moment was celebrating the outstanding achievements of our team, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. It was a time to recognize the milestones we reached in 2024, and express gratitude for the relentless efforts of our team.
We also focused on strengthening our bonds through team-building activities. Our GMs enjoyed a round of golf, where participants of all skill levels enjoyed the outdoors, fostering camaraderie and healthy competition. Those who are golf-averse took part in an interactive puzzle challenge that took place throughout the city. It not only tested our problem-solving skills but also encouraged teamwork and creative thinking.
No General Managers’ Meeting would be complete without our much-anticipated annual video challenge! Teams unleashed their creativity and competitive spirit, producing entertaining videos tied to the Legacy theme with a “Through the Decades” challenge. Teams recreated pop culture moments from the ’80s, ’90s, 2000s, and beyond. We witnessed Scooby-Doo shenanigans, a fantastic Bob Ross impersonation, and a “Never Gonna Give You Up” music video that rivaled the original—among many other unforgettable performances!
From impactful learning sessions to heartfelt celebrations, this year’s General Manager’s Meeting was an unforgettable experience. Together, we honored the past, celebrated the present, and set our sights on a future filled with possibilities!
Our team is growing stronger! This quarter, Smart City Networks is excited to welcome a variety of skilled professionals to our team, bringing fresh talent to our partnered convention centers. From new technicians to event coordinators and customer service representatives, each new team member will add to our overall mission. Their addition reflects our ongoing dedication to delivering outstanding customer service and ensuring seamless event experiences. We can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make!
Candy Buck - Event Coordinator - Anaheim
Symin Castillo - Technician - Phoenix
David Garcia - Technician - San Diego
Eduardo Giles Rios - Technician - Phoenix
Alison Jones - Software Analyst - Orlando
Zachary Maxie - Technician - Houston
Naomi Ogren - Technician - San Diego
Charlie Sanchez - Technician - Houston
Jeremy Stephens - Technician - Denver
Troy Woods - Project Administrator - Washington DC
At Smart City Networks, we are all about empowering our teams and creating an environment where solutions are architected through collaboration. We have learned that everyone thrives when we celebrate team success, recognize innovation, and embrace individuality. To learn more about a career at Smart City Networks click here!
OCTOBER
Brandon Cooper
Joe Melancon
Bray Pabalan
Jon Sosnowski
Ryan Keenan
Joseph Villa
Stephanie Johnson
Stephen Whitley
Adolfo Ramirez
Elard Flores
Mitch Hughes
Melody Doucet
Carlos Reyes
Ethan Cantu
Genesis Lozano
Kevin Buitrago
JQuandrei Ellis
NOVEMBER
Kevin Romero
Henry De La Rosa
Allegra Quiban-Gonzalez
Aaron Squires
Earvin Claros
Devin Fonseca
Amanda Abundes
Jesse Macias
Jackie Ripplinger
Davinnson Escobar-Ruiz
Paul Russell
Michael Brown
Antoinette Ibarra
Greg Smith
Tania Ramos
Eric Mowrey
Anthony Chambers
Kiana Salomao
Bill Heyer
David King
Dave Nagel
Liliana Rios-Montoya
Pamela Reip
Jessica Torres-Cruz
Tommie Beltz
Joshua Lugo
Alice Taylor
Cyril Yumang
DECEMBER
Dennis O’Gara
Miguel Barksdale
Andres Villalpando
Mohamad Sumren
David Bachler
Christopher Clark
Charlie Sanchez Jr.
Brianne Hackett
Andrew West
Joshua Brito-Infante
Daniella Wagner
Jesse Gallegos
Shari Barger
Laszlo Berta
Christian Peterson
Patricia Duncan
Tracey Anderson
Albert Kwong
Mark Graham
Nick Gwinn
Marlon Brown
Sarah Finnegan
Nick Gettemeier
Chris Pendleton
Paul Brown
Principle:
Think Fast, Move Fast! Bryan Flores September
I have worked with Bryan Flores many times while traveling. He’s a very hard working and knowledgeable technician. I’ve never heard any complaints from those who have worked with him in the past. I haven’t had any issues working with him, personally. He’s a technician that knows how to handle himself and others.
(Amon Carthan, Technical CSR)
Principle: It’s the People!
Jaiden
Moreno
We want to highlight the outstanding contributions of Jaiden Moreno. His professionalism, positive attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond have earned him several accolades from our team and partners alike. Recently, Jaiden stepped up to assist our venue partners when he noticed a need, exemplifying the true spirit of collaboration, support, and hospitality. Below is the recognition received about Jaiden from the center:
“I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for Jaiden’s exceptional professionalism during the move-in of my Landscaping show. I was truly impressed by Jaiden’s level of professionalism and how he represented both OCCC and Smarty City. His exemplary conduct made a significant positive impression.”
(Elijah Newton, Event Manager)
October
IT’S YOUR... Anniversary
Jacob Huerta, Randy Arenas, Jesse Sanchez, Joe Steffen, Emily Castellanos, David Daumit, Jennifer Engelhart, Brian Givens, Kristian Kammermeyer, David Georger, Jesse Macias, Tyshon Reid, Steve Whitley, Patricia Duncan, Jennifer Wood, Nicholas Green, Karl Seeba, Terrell Collins, Deyvid Diego, Liliya Piskunova, Davinnson Escocobar-Ruiz, Christopher Enck, David Bachler, Amy Stone, Daniel Sakimura, James Zarharchuck, Joshua Poston
Matt Chavez, Jessica Torres-Cruz, Ben Behnkendorf, Chris Pendleton, Jim Snook
Tim Wortman, Dennis O’Gara, Chris Wharry, Kevin Patch, Joe Melancon, Albert Janak
Henry De La Rosa, Dave Nagel
Bob Sutton
We Care and Give Back. We believe with our success comes the responsibility to give back to our communities. We seek to contribute to our communities in ways that reflect broadly held values, have meaningful impact, draw on our unique strengths as a company, and whenever possible reinforce our business objectives smartcitynetworks.com
