Location:  Newport News, Virginia

With Verizon Wireless And Its Legacy Companies Since:  1986

Miles Driven Daily:
300

Current Ringtone:
Standard Verizon Wireless ringtone

How did you become a Test Man?
I was working for Verizon Wireless’ IT department and loved my job. I’m a great problem-solver and I like fixing things. But I wanted a more customer-facing position, so I transferred to the Call Center, where instead of resolving issues for employees, I began helping customers with their needs. But, I had always had an interest in working with the Network Performance Group, and when I learned the position of Test Man was available, I applied. Being a Test Man allows me to help the customer directly.

What’s the most rewarding part of your day?
My best days are when I don’t find any issues with the network. But then again, I also like it when I can be a part of the solution. Like the other day, when someone saw me in my truck and told me about some issues they were having in their town. I took a test drive, collected the data, and brought it back to review with our team. Sure enough, something had changed, and because we were able to get to the heart of the problem first-hand, we’ve now resolved the issue.

What do you have in common with the Test Man in the commercials?
The idea is the same, but we do it for real.

Which traits make you a successful Test Man?
I’m competitive, and you have to like the idea of going head-to-head with the competition. I’m also a great problem-solver.

What does “It’s the Network” mean to you?
It is how reliable our network has proven to be.

Why does Verizon Wireless need to test the network every day?
Areas change all the time. Obstructions, population and changes mean upgrades are needed, such as more calling capacity or perhaps a new cell tower. If you don’t have someone in the field to monitor things in real time, you’re not able to detect and make repairs.

What is the most unique place you have visited to test the Verizon Wireless network?
My favorite drive is through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. On the one side you have the Chesapeake Bay, and at the end of the 26-mile route, you’re at the Atlantic Ocean. I’m an “Ocean Guy” and I love to drive. In fact, when I’m not behind the wheel of my Test Vehicle, I’m behind the handlebars of my Harley.

How does Verizon Wireless use the data you collect?
The information I’m out in the field collecting helps our team identify new search areas where we might need to build a new tower or add more calling capacity. As new developments go up, we always have to be thinking ahead to make sure that there is adequate capacity.

What should consumers know about the Verizon Wireless network?
That we really are out there every day testing the reliability and performance of the network for them. So when the customer needs to make that call, they don’t have to wonder if the call will connect.

What achievement/aspect of your job are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the vital role that Verizon Wireless plays in restoring and ensuring communications in times of emergency. When an emergency worker thanks me for my small part in helping to save and improve people’s lives, it really does make you feel good.

MEDIA CONTACT:
John Johnson
240-568-1429
John.H.Johnson@VerizonWireless.com

Reliability Studies for the northeast