Podcast appearances and mentions of daniel litwin

Sterile processing departments rely on data to drive everything from tray tracking and workflow visibility to reporting, compliance and operational decision-making. But when that data becomes inconsistent, incomplete or disconnected from day-to-day workflows, even the most advanced technology can struggle to deliver meaningful insights. What often appears to be a software issue is frequently the result of workflow drift, inconsistent scanning practices, inaccurate tray builds or training gaps that have accumulated over time.For healthcare organizations focused on operational excellence, the challenge is not collecting more data. It is ensuring the data reflects reality. Without trustworthy information, reporting becomes unreliable, accountability becomes difficult and SPD teams can lose confidence in the systems designed to support them.How can sterile processing leaders identify the warning signs of poor data quality before they create reporting issues, workflow inefficiencies and operational blind spots?Welcome to ConCensis. In this episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, sits down with Jill Sweeney, Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, and Jennifer Bingaman, Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies, to explore the root causes of common “data disasters” in sterile processing departments. Together, they discuss how workflow consistency, scanning compliance, tray accuracy, reporting practices and ongoing training all contribute to cleaner data and more effective SPD operations. The conversation provides practical guidance for organizations looking to improve system utilization, increase trust in reporting and create a stronger foundation for data-driven decision-making.What You'll Learn...• Why unreliable data is often a symptom of workflow inconsistency rather than a technology failure, and how organizations can identify the root causes before they impact operations.• How inconsistent scanning behaviors create downstream reporting challenges, reduce visibility and weaken confidence in system data.• The role tray builds, instrument records and data accuracy play in maintaining trust across SPD teams and leadership.• Why reporting frustrations frequently stem from process issues and workflow variation rather than incorrect reports.• How onboarding drift, training gaps and evolving departmental practices can slowly erode data quality over time.• Practical strategies for leaders and frontline teams to improve accountability, strengthen workflow compliance and build a culture of continuous data integrity.About the GuestsJill Sweeney serves as Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, where she works directly with healthcare facilities to improve workflow adoption, system utilization and sterile processing best practices. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in the SPD industry, she helps organizations align technology, training and operational processes to support stronger performance and more reliable outcomes.Jennifer Bingaman is Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies. She specializes in helping healthcare organizations understand, interpret and act on operational data. Her work focuses on identifying workflow gaps, improving reporting accuracy and helping SPD leaders transform data into actionable insights that support efficiency, accountability and continuous improvement.

Sterile processing departments rely on data to drive everything from tray tracking and workflow visibility to reporting, compliance and operational decision-making. But when that data becomes inconsistent, incomplete or disconnected from day-to-day workflows, even the most advanced technology can struggle to deliver meaningful insights. What often appears to be a software issue is frequently the result of workflow drift, inconsistent scanning practices, inaccurate tray builds or training gaps that have accumulated over time.For healthcare organizations focused on operational excellence, the challenge is not collecting more data. It is ensuring the data reflects reality. Without trustworthy information, reporting becomes unreliable, accountability becomes difficult and SPD teams can lose confidence in the systems designed to support them.How can sterile processing leaders identify the warning signs of poor data quality before they create reporting issues, workflow inefficiencies and operational blind spots?Welcome to ConCensis. In this episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, sits down with Jill Sweeney, Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, and Jennifer Bingaman, Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies, to explore the root causes of common “data disasters” in sterile processing departments. Together, they discuss how workflow consistency, scanning compliance, tray accuracy, reporting practices and ongoing training all contribute to cleaner data and more effective SPD operations. The conversation provides practical guidance for organizations looking to improve system utilization, increase trust in reporting and create a stronger foundation for data-driven decision-making.What You'll Learn...• Why unreliable data is often a symptom of workflow inconsistency rather than a technology failure, and how organizations can identify the root causes before they impact operations.• How inconsistent scanning behaviors create downstream reporting challenges, reduce visibility and weaken confidence in system data.• The role tray builds, instrument records and data accuracy play in maintaining trust across SPD teams and leadership.• Why reporting frustrations frequently stem from process issues and workflow variation rather than incorrect reports.• How onboarding drift, training gaps and evolving departmental practices can slowly erode data quality over time.• Practical strategies for leaders and frontline teams to improve accountability, strengthen workflow compliance and build a culture of continuous data integrity.About the GuestsJill Sweeney serves as Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, where she works directly with healthcare facilities to improve workflow adoption, system utilization and sterile processing best practices. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in the SPD industry, she helps organizations align technology, training and operational processes to support stronger performance and more reliable outcomes.Jennifer Bingaman is Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies. She specializes in helping healthcare organizations understand, interpret and act on operational data. Her work focuses on identifying workflow gaps, improving reporting accuracy and helping SPD leaders transform data into actionable insights that support efficiency, accountability and continuous improvement.

Sterile processing departments rely on data to drive everything from tray tracking and workflow visibility to reporting, compliance and operational decision-making. But when that data becomes inconsistent, incomplete or disconnected from day-to-day workflows, even the most advanced technology can struggle to deliver meaningful insights. What often appears to be a software issue is frequently the result of workflow drift, inconsistent scanning practices, inaccurate tray builds or training gaps that have accumulated over time.For healthcare organizations focused on operational excellence, the challenge is not collecting more data. It is ensuring the data reflects reality. Without trustworthy information, reporting becomes unreliable, accountability becomes difficult and SPD teams can lose confidence in the systems designed to support them.How can sterile processing leaders identify the warning signs of poor data quality before they create reporting issues, workflow inefficiencies and operational blind spots?Welcome to ConCensis. In this episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, sits down with Jill Sweeney, Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, and Jennifer Bingaman, Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies, to explore the root causes of common “data disasters” in sterile processing departments. Together, they discuss how workflow consistency, scanning compliance, tray accuracy, reporting practices and ongoing training all contribute to cleaner data and more effective SPD operations. The conversation provides practical guidance for organizations looking to improve system utilization, increase trust in reporting and create a stronger foundation for data-driven decision-making.What You'll Learn...• Why unreliable data is often a symptom of workflow inconsistency rather than a technology failure, and how organizations can identify the root causes before they impact operations.• How inconsistent scanning behaviors create downstream reporting challenges, reduce visibility and weaken confidence in system data.• The role tray builds, instrument records and data accuracy play in maintaining trust across SPD teams and leadership.• Why reporting frustrations frequently stem from process issues and workflow variation rather than incorrect reports.• How onboarding drift, training gaps and evolving departmental practices can slowly erode data quality over time.• Practical strategies for leaders and frontline teams to improve accountability, strengthen workflow compliance and build a culture of continuous data integrity.About the GuestsJill Sweeney serves as Senior Clinical Educator at Censis Technologies, where she works directly with healthcare facilities to improve workflow adoption, system utilization and sterile processing best practices. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in the SPD industry, she helps organizations align technology, training and operational processes to support stronger performance and more reliable outcomes.Jennifer Bingaman is Director of Business Services at Censis Technologies. She specializes in helping healthcare organizations understand, interpret and act on operational data. Her work focuses on identifying workflow gaps, improving reporting accuracy and helping SPD leaders transform data into actionable insights that support efficiency, accountability and continuous improvement.

Sterile processing departments are swimming in data, from workflow automation and supply data to patient outcome and quality metrics. But the real challenge is not collecting more information; it is knowing which metrics actually improve SPD performance, technician education, OR readiness and patient safety. For Censis, a leader in surgical asset management, the focus is on helping SPD teams turn that data into clearer instrument tracking, stronger workflow efficiency and better compliance. Censis estimates that an average OR minute costs about $60, making delayed cases a clear example of how operational data can quickly become a financial issue.When every scan, delay and quality event generates another data point, how can SPD teams tell which metrics are worth acting on before inefficiencies turn into OR delays, rework or patient safety risks?Welcome to ConCensis. In the latest episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale, welcomes Beth Perry, Business Intelligence & Analytics Engineer at Censis Technologies, for a presentation on how SPD teams can turn large volumes of operational data into practical decisions that improve productivity, quality, technician education and instrument availability. The discussion explores how CensisAI² helps teams identify the right metrics, understand what those metrics reveal and connect insights to measurable operational action.What you'll learn…Data only matters when it drives action. Perry explains that meaningful metrics should provide clear insight and influence decisions, helping SPD teams move from passive reporting to practical improvement.Productivity metrics should be tied to operational drivers. The discussion highlights items processed, count sheet quantity, average seconds per instrument assembled and time spent on core SPD workflows as ways to understand and improve throughput.Quality data can guide smarter technician education. Perry shows how event count, error rate, case delay minutes, responsible party count and average repertoire size can help managers decide whether an issue calls for individual coaching, team-wide training or proactive skill development.Beth Perry brings more than a decade of experience in business intelligence, analytics, reporting and data systems, with a long tenure at Censis Technologies. In her current role as Engineer of Business Intelligence & Analytics, she focuses on translating business needs into effective data solutions that support clearer reporting and better decision-making. Her career also includes experience in systems engineering, enterprise data analysis, technical services, logistics, sales administration and technology adoption.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin continues the European broadband deep dive with Carsten Engelke, Director of Technology at ANGA, and Dr. Anthony Basham, VP of Active Products for the EMEA region at Netceed and President of SCTE, focusing on one of the most critical—and often underestimated—dimensions of next-generation networks: resilience.As fiber cements its role as the backbone of Europe's digital infrastructure, the conversation shifts beyond deployment and into durability. These networks are no longer just conduits for internet access—they underpin emergency services, energy systems, national security, and the broader digital economy. That shift raises the stakes: building fast networks is no longer enough. They must also be secure, resilient, interoperable, and adaptable to future technological change.Engelke and Basham explore how resilience must be designed into fiber networks from the outset—not retrofitted later—and why that requires a holistic approach spanning physical infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI-driven operations, workforce readiness, and global standards alignment. From network detection systems to autonomous maintenance, from interoperability gaps to lifecycle planning, this episode examines what it truly means to build broadband infrastructure that can stand the test of time. Key Discussion Highlights:• Fiber as Critical National Infrastructure: The conversation underscores that fiber networks now support far more than connectivity—they are foundational to public services, emergency response, energy systems, and national economies. This elevates resilience and security from optional considerations to core design requirements.• Resilience Requires a Holistic Approach: Basham emphasizes that resilience cannot be solved with a single technology or policy. It must integrate physical infrastructure protection, power redundancy, cybersecurity, supply chain integrity, and workforce preparedness into one cohesive strategy.• Cybersecurity Pressure Is Rising Fast: With increasing geopolitical tensions and regulatory frameworks like the EU's Cyber Resilience Act and Cybersecurity Act, operators face growing pressure to implement advanced monitoring, detection, and response systems—often driven as much by compliance as by operational necessity.• AI and Network Detection Are Becoming Essential: As network traffic complexity grows beyond human-scale analysis, tools like Network Detection and Response (NDR) systems, machine learning, and behavioral analytics are becoming critical for identifying anomalies, threats, and performance issues in real time.• The Role—and Limits—of Automation: While AI enables proactive maintenance, self-healing networks, and smarter deployment planning, both guests stress that human expertise remains essential. Engineers will still design architectures, interpret edge cases, and make strategic decisions—AI acts as an augmentation layer, not a replacement.• Workforce Transformation and Training Challenges: As networks become more software-driven and AI-assisted, the industry must rethink how technicians are trained. Future roles will require a blend of traditional field skills and digital intelligence—making global, standardized training frameworks more important than ever.• Interoperability and Standards Are Still Gaps: The discussion highlights ongoing fragmentation across vendors and systems, particularly in fiber environments. Without stronger global standards and interoperability, operators risk increased complexity, higher costs, and slower adoption.• Designing for Long Life vs. Fast Rollout: A key tension emerges between speed and durability. Rapid fiber deployment has often prioritized rollout velocity over long-term resilience, but future networks must balance both—building passive infrastructure for decades-long endurance while allowing active components to evolve.• Lifecycle Thinking and Circularity: Sustainability plays a growing role in resilience strategy. Operators must plan for equipment reuse, replacement cycles, and energy efficiency—treating networks as long-term systems rather than one-time builds.• Global Coordination and Standardization: Both guests stress the importance of aligning European efforts with global standards bodies and international partners. Broadband infrastructure must operate seamlessly across borders, making interoperability and shared frameworks essential.This episode brings the European broadband conversation full circle—moving from deployment strategy to long-term viability. It highlights a critical shift in industry thinking: success will not be defined solely by how quickly fiber is rolled out, but by how well those networks can adapt, endure, and operate securely in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin continues his exploration of Europe's broadband transformation with returning guest Carsten Engelke, Director of Technology at ANGA, joined by Dr. Anthony Basham, VP of Active Products for the EMEA region at Netceed and President of SCTE.As Europe pushes toward a gigabit future, the path forward is proving far more complex than a simple fiber rollout. Operators across the region are balancing political pressure for universal high-speed connectivity with the commercial realities of legacy infrastructure, fragmented regulatory regimes, uneven investment models, and the ongoing challenge of convincing customers to migrate from networks that still function “well enough.” At the same time, sustainability, interoperability, cybersecurity, and life-cycle planning are becoming just as important as raw speed.Engelke and Basham bring two complementary vantage points to this conversation—one rooted in the operator and policy conversations shaping Europe's rollout, and the other grounded in product strategy, standards, and the practical realities of deployment across the EMEA region. Together, they unpack why Europe's broadband market is moving in multiple directions at once, what hybrid network coexistence means in practice, and why the future of broadband in Europe will depend as much on coordination and standards as on fiber itself.Key Discussion Highlights:• Europe Is Not One Broadband Story: Basham makes clear that Europe's fiber market is not progressing in a single unified direction. Instead, it is evolving across multiple national markets at different speeds, shaped by distinct regulatory frameworks, infrastructure legacies, and investment strategies—from mature Nordic and UK deployments to slower-moving markets still working through transition hurdles.• Build Phase vs. Execution Phase: The guests describe Europe as being both in build mode and in a more difficult execution phase. While fiber deployment itself is progressing, the challenge now is less about proving the technology and more about persuading customers, operators, and investors to make the leap from still-functional legacy systems to next-generation networks.• Policy Ambition vs. Commercial Reality: A central theme of the conversation is the tension between Europe's political ambition for universal gigabit access and the real-world economics of making that happen. Governments can define targets and fund strategic deployments, but operators still have to justify return on investment, pace network upgrades responsibly, and manage the realities of labor, construction, and customer demand.• The Hybrid Network Reality: Europe's broadband present remains deeply hybrid—blending legacy copper, DOCSIS, coax, fixed wireless, mobile, and multiple PON architectures alongside new FTTH deployments. Rather than a clean “old-to-new” shift, the market is living through a long coexistence period where multiple technologies must be supported, operated, and monetized in parallel.• Why Interoperability Matters More Than Ever: Engelke argues that one of fiber's missing ingredients is the kind of interoperability discipline that helped DOCSIS scale successfully. Without more standardized, broadly usable equipment and cross-vendor compatibility—especially at the customer premises level—Europe risks slowing adoption and increasing complexity for operators and end users alike.• Sustainability and Circularity as Long-Term Design Principles: Basham emphasizes that Europe is not trying to build a network for the next decade, but for the next several decades. That makes sustainability, circularity, and life-cycle thinking essential—from passive optical infrastructure longevity to the recovery, refurbishment, and replacement strategy for CPEs, ONTs, and other active electronics.• Legacy Switch-Offs Will Be a Major Inflection Point: One of the clearest accelerants for fiber adoption will be the eventual switch-off of copper networks. As long as legacy services continue working, migration pressure stays muted. But once those systems are retired, markets will be forced to adopt new infrastructure more decisively.• AI, Automation, and Proactive Network Operations: The discussion also highlights how AI can help operators not just manage future fiber networks, but build and maintain them more intelligently—from route planning during construction to proactive maintenance and customer support once services are live. The opportunity, they argue, is to design automation and resilience into the network from the start rather than layering it onto legacy systems later.• The Goal Is Clear, but the Path Is Not Simple: Both guests agree that Europe's destination is not in question: fiber-based, resilient, secure, long-life connectivity. The real challenge is managing the transition without destabilizing the legacy networks millions still rely on today, while aligning operators, policymakers, suppliers, and investors around a more coordinated path forward. This episode expands the earlier conversation on Europe's fiber future by widening the lens beyond deployment alone. It shows a market in transition—one where technological readiness is no longer the biggest barrier, but where standards, timing, policy alignment, and customer migration will define how quickly Europe reaches its broadband ambitions.

For a long time, compliance in healthcare was tied to the survey cycle. Now, that model is shifting. With the introduction of Joint Commission 360, organizations are being asked to demonstrate continuous performance—not just preparedness. As patient safety comes under increasing scrutiny, The Joint Commission is moving toward an approach built on real-time data, traceability, and consistency. The stakes are high: inconsistent sterile processing practices are still linked to surgical site infections, making SPD performance a critical piece of the patient safety puzzle.If compliance is no longer about preparing for a moment but proving performance over time, how should SPD teams approach their daily workflows differently?Welcome to ConCensis. In the latest episode, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Dr. Ivan Salgo, Chief Medical Officer at Censis and ASP, and Sabrina M. Ford, Market Manager of Central Sterilization at CommonSpirit, to unpack the real-world impact of Joint Commission 360 standards. Together, they explore how this updated accreditation model moves beyond checklist compliance and into a culture of continuous readiness, data-driven decision-making, and frontline accountability.What you'll learn…How to transition from last-minute survey prep to a continuous, always-ready compliance mindset powered by real-time data.How AAMI standards and Lean principles work together to reduce variability and create consistent, high-performing SPD workflows.Why strong documentation, traceability, and reproducible processes are now essential for proving performance and ensuring patient safety.Dr. Ivan Salgo serves as the Chief Medical Officer and Vice President at Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP), with extensive leadership experience across the medical device and life sciences industries. He has led innovation, clinical strategy, and commercialization efforts at organizations like Philips and Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, including driving market-leading cardiology technologies and securing major NIH-funded research initiatives.Sabrina M. Ford serves as the Market Manager of Central Sterilization at CommonSpirit, where she leads SPD teams through complex compliance environments, audits, and operational challenges. With extensive hands-on leadership experience, she brings practical insight into how standards translate into day-to-day workflows and team culture. She is known for her experience guiding teams through real-world survey readiness and operational demands.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Charles Dillard and Marion Nowosatko—both Training Managers at Amphenol Broadband Solutions—to share a practical, modern playbook for building broadband training programs that scale.As networks modernize faster than teams can absorb new tools, workflows, and expectations, training has shifted from a support function to a strategic advantage. Customers demand first-visit resolution, fiber footprints continue to expand, and field teams are expected to master evolving toolchains without slowing production. In this conversation, Dillard and Nowosatko break down how top operators treat training like an internal product—blending in-house capability with vendor partnerships, leveraging third-party certifications, and designing learning formats that actually stick.Drawing on decades of field and curriculum experience, the guests outline what works today across bench training, guided field time, micro-learnings, and structured mentorship—plus how to balance hands-on realism with the need for consistency at scale.Key Discussion Highlights:• Build vs. Buy for Training Programs: Dillard and Nowosatko explain why in-house training sends an immediate signal of investment in employee growth while enabling tighter alignment to company-specific specs, processes, and quality standards—something off-the-shelf vendor training often can't fully deliver.• When a Blended Model Makes Sense: Rather than treating it as “either/or,” the discussion frames internal and external training as complementary—especially when vendors can cover specialized equipment while internal teams focus on installation practices, troubleshooting workflows, and the real-world standards technicians are held to.• Partnering with Manufacturers the Right Way: The guests emphasize treating manufacturer relationships as true partnerships—not just product sales—where training is part of ensuring equipment performs correctly in the field. They highlight practical delivery methods like tech-meeting drop-ins, short-form micro-learning videos, and on-site field support that reinforces learning after initial rollout.• Why Third-Party Certifications Matter More Now: Certifications are positioned as both a workforce motivator and a transferable industry signal. For technicians, credentials provide recognition and career mobility; for employers, they reduce hiring risk by validating baseline knowledge and discipline. The guests stress the value of pairing certifications with meaningful recognition programs.• Designing Hands-On Labs That Are Realistic and Affordable: To make hands-on training feasible, they recommend leveraging vendor equipment support, repurposing retired or nonfunctional field gear for mockups, and standardizing lab builds so training stays consistent across locations—even when replicated nationally.• E-Learning That Actually Works at Scale: The episode makes the case that e-learning is essential for standardizing safety, theory, and specs across geographies—especially for dispersed teams. The guests advocate for e-learning that teaches techs how to find answers (not just memorize them), and for using digital modules as refreshers long after initial training.• Structuring On-the-Job Training Without Killing Productivity: A standout operational tip: flip the ride-along dynamic by placing new hires into production quickly so the seasoned technician assists on the new hire's assigned jobs. This reduces metric pressure on mentors and creates more intentional coaching rather than passive shadowing.• How to Think About True Blended Learning: The conversation closes by encouraging operators to bucket training into what must be hands-on versus what can be standardized digitally. Meeting learners where they are—especially younger, device-native techs—means building lightweight, mobile-accessible micro-learnings that fit into field downtime without forcing a return to the classroom.This episode delivers a practical checklist for operators building training programs in 2026 and beyond—where the goal isn't just knowledge transfer, but repeatable, scalable performance in the field.

Artificial intelligence used to live in strategy decks and conference keynotes—but now it's showing up in a very different place: right on the assembly tables where SPD technicians build trays for the next case. And it's arriving at a time when the pressure on sterile processing has never been higher. As surgical volumes climb and staffing shortages continue to strain hospital teams, SPDs are being asked to move faster while making zero mistakes. Even a single missing instrument can mean tray rework, case delays, and tension between departments. That's why AI-powered computer vision is gaining attention: not as a futuristic replacement for technicians, but as a second set of eyes built directly into the workflow.Can AI meaningfully reduce tray errors and compliance risk in SPDs—without disrupting workflows or replacing the human expertise at the center of sterile processing?Welcome to ConCensis. Continuing from a previous episode in this two-part conversation, host Daniel Litwin rejoins Censis Chief Technology Officer Harshil Goradia and Senior Director of Product Development Seamus Johnson to explore the future of AI in sterile processing. The episode centers on Censis Technologies' AI-powered sterile processing solution, Assembly Copilot: Final Check, a computer vision tool that detects missing chemical integrators before trays leave the assembly area. Together, the group discusses real-world results from early adopters, how the tool integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, and what the next three to five years of AI innovation in SPDs could look like.What you'll learn…How Final Check drove missing integrator occurrences down to zero by flagging omissions in real time—stopping trays before they left assembly and required rework or delayed a case.Why embedded computer vision and real-time alerts strengthen compliance without adding tool fatigue, integrating directly into technician workflows instead of forcing teams to adopt separate systems or change standard work processes.What responsible AI adoption looks like in sterile processing, including human-in-the-loop oversight, transparent governance practices, and a phased approach that builds trust with technicians and hospital leadership.Harshil Goradia serves as the Chief Technology Officer and VP of IT at Censis Technologies, where he leads global engineering, AI, innovation, and digital transformation initiatives across commercial and government healthcare businesses. He has a proven track record of launching revenue-generating AI products, building AI-native data platforms, modernizing cloud and IT infrastructure, and driving measurable growth, efficiency gains, and cybersecurity excellence within large enterprise environments, including Fortive and Fortune 100 organizations. Previously, he led AI Centers of Excellence and large-scale cloud, ERP, and digital transformation programs across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, delivering multi-million-dollar impact and scaling high-performing global technology teams.Seamus Johnson is a Senior Software Developer at Censis Technologies with more than two decades of experience building and scaling healthcare technology solutions. He specializes in software architecture, cloud systems, database design, cybersecurity, and full-stack development using technologies such as C#, Angular, and TypeScript. With a background in physics from Tennessee Technological University and prior experience at Northrop Grumman, Johnson brings deep technical expertise and long-standing industry experience to the development of secure, high-performance applications for sterile processing and hospital environments.

Sterile processing departments are dealing with persistent operational pressures. Surgical case volumes are rising, instruments are more complex, and staffing shortages remain across many health systems. Accuracy and documentation requirements continue to tighten, leaving little room for error. In busy hospitals, sterile processing teams may handle 10,000 to 30,000 surgical instruments per day, with performance tightly linked to patient risk given the persistent burden of surgical site infections in inpatient care. These conditions are shaping how hospitals evaluate AI in sterile processing as a practical way to support frontline teams without adding disruption or risk.As health systems reassess where technology can provide real operational support, what does effective adoption look like inside day-to-day SPD workflows?In Part 1 of this two-part ConCensis podcast series by Censis Technologies, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Chief Technology Officer Harshil Goradia and Senior Director of Product Development Seamus Johnson for a grounded, practical discussion on how AI is being applied in sterile processing today. The conversation centers on where AI delivers measurable value in SPD workflows, why some use cases succeed while others fall short, and how technology can reinforce technician performance without disrupting established processes.Key points :AI is most valuable where traditional software breaks down: Rule-based tools struggle with visual, variable, real-world conditions such as lighting, positioning, and tray variability. AI in sterile processing, particularly computer vision, can interpret this complexity without hard-coding every possible scenario.Consistency is the core challenge across SPD workflows: Decontamination, assembly, and sterilization remain the highest-risk steps. Volume growth, case complexity, and staffing strain increase the likelihood of errors, making consistency a primary focus for AI in sterile processing initiatives.Final check use cases can have an outsized impact: In customer environments referenced in the episode, missing integrators dropped from dozens per month to zero after implementation. These results show how targeted AI in sterile processing applications can improve accuracy while strengthening documentation and accountability.Harshil Goradia is a technology executive specializing in AI, SaaS, and large-scale digital transformation across healthcare and enterprise software. As CTO and VP of IT at Censis Technologies, he leads global engineering and AI initiatives that drive product innovation, operational efficiency, and revenue growth. His career spans senior leadership roles at Fortive, Arrow Electronics, and Oracle, delivering high-impact technology platforms and scalable modernization programs.Seamus Johnson is a senior software developer with more than two decades of experience building technology solutions for the healthcare industry. At Censis Technologies, he leads application development across software architecture, cloud systems, databases, and security, with a focus on supporting hospital and sterile processing workflows. His background includes enterprise software development roles at Censis and Northrop Grumman, grounded in a technical foundation in physics and agile engineering practices.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin continues his conversation with Alex Rozek, Founder and CEO of Mac Mountain, to examine how technology shifts, capital discipline, and changing consumer expectations reshaped broadband in 2025, and what those changes lock in for the future.As the broadband industry closes out 2025, momentum has clearly shifted. Fiber and fixed wireless access accelerated subscriber growth, traditional cable continued to lose ground, and satellite connectivity matured into a meaningful, if supplemental,piece of the ecosystem. At the same time, midstream changes to BEAD funding rules, rising data consumption, and the rapid adoption of AI-driven applications have pushed operators to rethink how networks are financed, built, and operated.Rozek brings a pragmatic, builder-focused perspective to the conversation, grounded in unit economics and long-term infrastructure thinking. In Part 2 of this year-in-review discussion, the focus turns to technology tradeoffs, capital stack strategy, and the question of what 2025 permanently changed about broadband deployment in the United States.Key Discussion Highlights:• BEAD Funding Reality Check: Rozek explains why Mac Mountain ultimately chose not to pursue BEAD opportunities in multiple states, citing complexity, compliance costs, and long timelines that often undermine the apparent appeal of grant funding. He contrasts BEAD with alternative financing paths, such as tax-advantaged revenue bonds and private capital, that can accelerate deployment and improve certainty.• Unit Economics as the North Star: Rather than leading with subsidies, Rozek emphasizes starting with unit economics all-in cost per subscriber, expected ARPU, and long-term cash flow, to determine whether a project makes sense. He outlines a benchmark model where disciplined costs and scalable operations drive attractive returns on invested capital over time.• Capital Stack Evolution: The conversation details how healthy broadband capital stacks evolve as networks scale, moving from private equity and term loans to warehouse facilities and, eventually, asset-backed securitizations. Rozek notes that while capital availability remains strong in 2025, discipline and sequencing matter more than ever.• Fiber vs. Fixed Wireless vs. Satellite: Rozek breaks down the physical and economic realities that differentiate connectivity technologies. Fiber's superior bandwidth, durability, and long-term cost profile position it as the dominant solution for most homes, while fixed wireless and low-Earth-orbit satellites like Starlink play important supplemental roles in hard-to-serve or low-density areas.• Why Cable Is Struggling: Rising upload demand, AI-driven workloads, cloud-based content creation, and multi-terabyte monthly usage are straining legacy cable architectures. Even with DOCSIS 4.0 upgrades, Rozek argues coax faces structural limits compared to fiber's scalability.• AI and the Bandwidth Inflection Point: From video conferencing to generative AI tools, Rozek highlights how rapidly growing upstream and downstream data needs are redefining what “adequate” connectivity means, reinforcing fiber's role as essential infrastructure rather than a premium upgrade.• What 2025 Locked In: Reflecting on the year, Rozek suggests 2025 may mark the moment when the question shifted from “Why do we need this?” to “How do we get it?” For consumers, developers, municipalities, and policymakers alike, high-quality broadband is increasingly viewed as foundational, on par with electrification or transportation infrastructure.This episode builds on the financing and service-model themes from Part 1, adding a deeper examination of technology tradeoffs and long-term infrastructure strategy. Together, the two-part series captures a broadband industry in transition, moving from experimentation and debate toward clearer standards, expectations, and execution paths.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin continues his conversation with Alex Rozek, Founder and CEO of Mac Mountain, to examine how technology shifts, capital discipline, and changing consumer expectations reshaped broadband in 2025, and what those changes lock in for the future.As the broadband industry closes out 2025, momentum has clearly shifted. Fiber and fixed wireless access accelerated subscriber growth, traditional cable continued to lose ground, and satellite connectivity matured into a meaningful, if supplemental,piece of the ecosystem. At the same time, midstream changes to BEAD funding rules, rising data consumption, and the rapid adoption of AI-driven applications have pushed operators to rethink how networks are financed, built, and operated.Rozek brings a pragmatic, builder-focused perspective to the conversation, grounded in unit economics and long-term infrastructure thinking. In Part 2 of this year-in-review discussion, the focus turns to technology tradeoffs, capital stack strategy, and the question of what 2025 permanently changed about broadband deployment in the United States.Key Discussion Highlights:• BEAD Funding Reality Check: Rozek explains why Mac Mountain ultimately chose not to pursue BEAD opportunities in multiple states, citing complexity, compliance costs, and long timelines that often undermine the apparent appeal of grant funding. He contrasts BEAD with alternative financing paths, such as tax-advantaged revenue bonds and private capital, that can accelerate deployment and improve certainty.• Unit Economics as the North Star: Rather than leading with subsidies, Rozek emphasizes starting with unit economics all-in cost per subscriber, expected ARPU, and long-term cash flow, to determine whether a project makes sense. He outlines a benchmark model where disciplined costs and scalable operations drive attractive returns on invested capital over time.• Capital Stack Evolution: The conversation details how healthy broadband capital stacks evolve as networks scale, moving from private equity and term loans to warehouse facilities and, eventually, asset-backed securitizations. Rozek notes that while capital availability remains strong in 2025, discipline and sequencing matter more than ever.• Fiber vs. Fixed Wireless vs. Satellite: Rozek breaks down the physical and economic realities that differentiate connectivity technologies. Fiber's superior bandwidth, durability, and long-term cost profile position it as the dominant solution for most homes, while fixed wireless and low-Earth-orbit satellites like Starlink play important supplemental roles in hard-to-serve or low-density areas.• Why Cable Is Struggling: Rising upload demand, AI-driven workloads, cloud-based content creation, and multi-terabyte monthly usage are straining legacy cable architectures. Even with DOCSIS 4.0 upgrades, Rozek argues coax faces structural limits compared to fiber's scalability.• AI and the Bandwidth Inflection Point: From video conferencing to generative AI tools, Rozek highlights how rapidly growing upstream and downstream data needs are redefining what “adequate” connectivity means, reinforcing fiber's role as essential infrastructure rather than a premium upgrade.• What 2025 Locked In: Reflecting on the year, Rozek suggests 2025 may mark the moment when the question shifted from “Why do we need this?” to “How do we get it?” For consumers, developers, municipalities, and policymakers alike, high-quality broadband is increasingly viewed as foundational, on par with electrification or transportation infrastructure.This episode builds on the financing and service-model themes from Part 1, adding a deeper examination of technology tradeoffs and long-term infrastructure strategy. Together, the two-part series captures a broadband industry in transition, moving from experimentation and debate toward clearer standards, expectations, and execution paths.

Unannounced surveys are no longer the exception in healthcare—they're the norm. Accrediting bodies increasingly expect sterile processing departments (SPDs) to demonstrate consistent compliance, real-time documentation, and reliable adherence to manufacturers' instructions for use on any given day, not just during audit season. Joint Commission survey data continue to show that high-level disinfection and sterilization practices are among the most frequently cited higher-risk infection control areas, often due to breakdowns in implementation, documentation, or adherence to manufacturers' instructions for use. As standards tighten and scrutiny increases, survey readiness has evolved from a periodic project into an everyday operational discipline.So, how can SPD teams move beyond the stressful, last-minute scramble and feel confident year-round? What does it actually mean to be “survey-ready” on a random Tuesday morning?Those questions are at the heart of the latest episode of ConCensis, hosted by Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale. In this episode, Litwin is joined by Lindsay Clarke, Associate Product Owner at Censis Technologies, to unpack why survey readiness must be built into daily habits—and how teams can realistically make that shift.Together, the conversation explores how mindset, culture, and practical tools intersect to transform survey readiness from a reactive event into a steady, confidence-building practice. Drawing from Clarke's years of frontline SPD leadership and her current work in healthcare technology, the episode offers grounded, actionable insights for teams at every stage of their readiness journey.What you'll learn…Why daily survey readiness is fundamentally about patient safety, not just compliance checklists.How strong department culture turns compliance from a burden into shared ownership.The role of integrated technology and documentation in eliminating last-minute survey stress.Lindsay Clarke is a clinical educator at Censis Technologies who trains and mentors healthcare teams using evidence-based education to strengthen performance and improve patient outcomes. She brings deep sterile processing leadership experience, having managed SPD operations at Bon Secours Mercy Health and HCA Florida Healthcare with responsibility for sterilization, compliance, and quality. Her strengths include curriculum and training development, cross-team collaboration, and translating real-world clinical workflows into practical improvements.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Alex Rozek, Founder and CEO of Mac Mountain, to unpack the defining shifts that shaped the broadband industry in 2025 and what they signal for the years ahead. As the industry approaches the end of 2025, broadband looks markedly different than it did just a year ago. Fiber and fixed wireless continue to challenge cable's long-held dominance, BEAD funding has been rewritten midstream, spectrum has changed hands at historic scale, and satellites have emerged as a more viable connectivity option for a growing number of users. At the same time, new operating and financing models are reshaping how networks are built, owned, and operated. Rozek brings a builder's perspective to this year-in-review conversation, drawing on his experience investing in, operating, and scaling broadband businesses. In Part 1 of this two-part discussion, the focus centers on financing trends, content shifts, and the growing momentum behind broadband-as-a-service models that treat connectivity less like a one-time construction project and more like a long-term utility. Key Discussion Highlights: • The 2025 Financing Landscape: Rozek outlines how broadband remains a capital-intensive business, but one where capital continues to flow, from private credit and municipal bonds to large-scale satellite investments, highlighting how financing structures are evolving alongside network deployment strategies. • BEAD's Mid-Flight Reset: He discusses how changes to BEAD funding rules in 2025 expanded eligible technologies and altered expectations around grant availability, forcing operators and communities to rethink how projects are financed and prioritized. • Content as a Catalyst: Rozek explores how cord-cutting, streaming adoption, and ESPN's move to a direct-to-consumer streaming model represent a major inflection point—reducing friction for data-only broadband adoption and reshaping how consumers think about connectivity. • Broadband as a Service Explained: Drawing from firsthand experience with municipal networks and tax-advantaged financing, Rozek explains how separating network assets from operations unlocks lower-cost capital, operational scale, and more sustainable long-term economics. • Efficiency Through Scale: He details why consolidating billing, network operations, customer service, and systems across multiple networks creates meaningful efficiencies, allowing operators to manage larger footprints without linear cost increases. This episode sets the foundation for a deeper exploration of how service models, partnerships, and differentiated customer acquisition strategies are redefining broadband deployment. In Part 2, the conversation continues with a closer look at competition across fiber, cable, fixed wireless, and satellite, and how operators can position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving connectivity landscape.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin connects with Carsten Engelke, Director of Technology at ANGA, to deliver a comprehensive primer on the European fibre market as it undergoes a major transformation ahead of ANGA COM 2026.As Europe accelerates its fibre-first strategies, operators, vendors, and policymakers are navigating shifting standards, rising resilience requirements, and changing customer expectations. Engelke brings deep expertise from the intersection of policy, engineering, and operations to break down how Europe's market differs from the U.S., why the last 100 meters remains a critical challenge, and how emerging tools like AI-supported monitoring will redefine network performanceThis conversation offers clarity on where the European market stands today, what is driving its next phase of growth, and how the industry should prepare for the standards, technologies, and operational shifts reshaping fibre deployment and management across the region.

In healthcare, patient safety and operational efficiency often depend on invisible systems working perfectly in the background. One of those systems—water quality—has quietly become a defining factor in sterile processing success. With new standards such as AAMI ST108 setting stricter expectations, hospitals and SPDs (Sterile Processing Departments) are rethinking how they monitor, manage, and measure their water. Considering that a single SPD will likely use thousands of gallons of water daily, the stakes for getting water quality right have never been higher.What does “good water quality” actually mean for sterile processing, and how can hospitals transform it from a compliance checkbox into a driver of patient safety and efficiency?Welcome to ConCensis. In the latest episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale, sits down with Jeffrey Paquet, CEO of VERDA Water Quality Systems, to unpack the unseen yet critical role of water in healthcare operations. Together, they explore how water quality impacts everything from instrument integrity to infection prevention, and how technology and cross-disciplinary teamwork are reshaping the way SPDs think about their most used resource.What you'll learn…Water as a performance multiplier: From detergents and enzymes to sterilizers, proper water quality determines how effective every step of the SPD process can be. Poor water equals damaged instruments, higher costs, and potential infection risk.Three essential water types: Paquet breaks down utility, critical, and steam water—each with unique standards, uses, and monitoring requirements that SPDs must understand and routinely test for.Data-driven management: Technologies like VERDA's real-time monitoring systems and Censis' CensiTrac enable departments to correlate water data with instrument outcomes, helping pinpoint and solve quality issues before they escalate.Jeffrey Paquet is an accomplished healthcare and engineering executive with over two decades of experience leading innovation in medical infrastructure and water quality management. As CEO of VERDA Water Quality Systems and Mobile Medical International Corporation (mmic™), he specializes in ensuring hospitals maintain operational continuity through high-quality temporary surgical and sterile processing facilities. His career highlights include advancing sustainable water quality solutions for healthcare environments and guiding cross-industry engineering design and product development through his firm, Dimension Business Group.

On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, host Thomas Arens sits down with Daniel Litwin, President of the James Madison University Bass Fishing Team and creator of Big-D TV. Daniel shares his journey in collegiate bass fishing, his recent tournament successes, and what it's like to lead one of Virginia's most competitive college fishing programs.We dive deep into the Potomac River fishing scene, exploring the strategies, patterns, and conditions that helped Daniel and his team find success on one of the most challenging tidal fisheries in the region. Whether you're a student angler, a college fishing fan, or just love learning about what's happening in the Mid-Atlantic tournament circuit, this episode has something for you!Follow Daniel on Big-D TV and stay connected with JMU Bass Fishing for more updates on their season!Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast Fishing the DMV now has a website: https://www.fishingthedmv.com/ If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.comDaniel on Social MediaDaniel on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@big.d.tv.?si=Sn98Smt59kkAtKPr Daniel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big.d.tv/ Daniel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084708157679&ref=xav_ig_profile_web JMU Fishing Club Website: https://www.jmu.edu/recreation/sports/sport-clubs/clubs/bassfishing.shtml JMU Fishing Club on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmu_bass/?hl=enJMU Fishing Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JMUBassFishing/  Jake's bait & Tackle website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Places you can listen to Fishing the DMV audio version: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1893009 Fishing the DMV YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/n3c-CFvmpFg Fishing the DMV Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/fishingthedmv/?utm_medium=copy_link#fishing #fishingreport #fishingtheDMVSupport the show

Sterile Processing Departments (SPDs) are the unsung backbone of surgical care — ensuring every instrument, tray, and tool is safe, sterile, and ready when needed. Yet, despite their vital role, SPD workflows often rely on manual processes and underrecognized best practices. As healthcare systems push for greater efficiency and staff well-being, SPD managers are turning to smarter tools to bridge that gap. Recent research underscores that inefficiencies in sterile processing can ripple through the entire surgical ecosystem, reinforcing why technology-driven improvements in inspection, tracking, and assembly are essential to reducing workflow disruptions and delays.Could technology be the key to unlocking new levels of accuracy and efficiency in sterile processing? And how are innovative SPD leaders using platforms like CensiTrac to save time, strengthen compliance, and boost team morale?That's the focus of this episode of ConCensis, hosted by Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale. Joining him is Amy Webb, Manager of Sterile Processing at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, who shares her real-world strategies for improving department efficiency — from smart organization systems to leadership approaches that keep teams engaged. Together, they explore how digital tracking tools, data-driven insights, and a people-first mindset are transforming the SPD landscape.Key takeaways from the conversation…Organizational Overhaul: Webb explains how assigning each tray its own labeled container streamlined workflows, improved inventory visibility, and reduced search time for critical instruments.Human-Centered Management: Her leadership style prioritizes open communication, trust, and staff empowerment — creating buy-in that makes process innovation stick.Tech-Driven Efficiencies: By leveraging CensiTrac, Webb and her team can now automate documentation, monitor productivity in real time, and integrate performance data with hospital systems — cutting manual record-keeping and aligning SPD output with OR needs.Amy Webb is the Manager of Sterile Processing at Dignity Health, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in sterile processing and surgical support. Beginning her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, she advanced through roles at Banner Health and Atlas Healthcare Partners before leading operations at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Certified in Sterile Processing and currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Webb is known for her leadership in optimizing workflows and elevating SPD team performance.

In Part 2 of this Wavelengths conversation, host Daniel Litwin continues his discussion with Chuck Girt, Chief Technology Officer at FiberLight, diving deeper into the broader ecosystem of education connectivity. While Part 1 focused on building resilient networks inside the classroom, this episode looks outward, examining how education networks must extend into homes, public spaces, and communities to truly close the digital divide. Girt shares how funding shifts, cybersecurity challenges, and new technology trends are reshaping how districts think about connectivity beyond school walls. With decades of experience in telecommunications and education infrastructure, Girt outlines a blueprint for designing networks that support students wherever learning happens, from classrooms to Chromebooks at home to roaming connections in libraries and community centers. Key Discussion Highlights: • Extending Learning Beyond School Walls: Girt emphasizes that education doesn't stop at the classroom door. Reliable fiber must power home connectivity, bus Wi-Fi, and community hotspots to ensure equitable access for all students. • The Funding Pendulum: The episode explores how shifting definitions of “community anchor institutions” and the push-and-pull of BEAD, E-Rate, and state funding complicate planning—but also create new opportunities for strategic investment. • Cybersecurity in the Age of AI: With ransomware attacks on schools rising 23% year-over-year, Girt stresses that security must be built into network design, supported by operators, MSPs, and AI-driven defenses that protect students and their data. • The Eduroam Example: Expanding secure roaming networks for students introduces new benefits—and new risks. Girt explains how smart certificate management and network-wide threat detection can safeguard roaming access. • Last Mile Upgrades that Matter: From moving content closer to the edge, to modernizing in-building infrastructure, Girt outlines practical, district-level strategies that deliver immediate improvements while waiting for larger-scale rollouts. • Trends to Watch: Looking ahead, Girt sees AI as the most powerful driver of education connectivity, enabling immersive learning, VR classrooms, and cross-institution collaboration that demands higher bandwidth. This episode offers practical insights for school district CIOs, administrators, and broadband providers alike. Girt makes clear that future-ready education networks require not just classroom connectivity, but a holistic approach that extends into communities, anticipates cybersecurity threats, and leverages funding to fuel long-term growth.

Sterile processing teams are under constant pressure—handling growing surgical demands, working short-staffed, and navigating strict regulations—so getting every instrument tray assembled right the first time has never mattered more. Even a single assembly error can cascade into costly OR delays or, worse, compromise patient safety. Recent research highlights that most surgical instrument errors stem from failures in inspection and identification, and these mistakes frequently lead to operating room delays and wasted resources. In this climate, artificial intelligence tools are stepping in to help SPDs raise their quality benchmarks.How can AI-powered verification like Censis' Final Check feature transform the daily realities of sterile processing teams? And beyond efficiency, what impact does this technology have on compliance, staff morale, and hospital culture at large?This episode of ConCensis, hosted by Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale, dives deep into these questions with guest Greg Warino, the Market Director of Central Sterile Processing at Mercy Health. Together, they explore how Final Check is reshaping workflows, reducing errors, and reinforcing trust across OR teams.The key topics of discussion are…Error reduction at scale: Since implementing Final Check, Mercy Health's SPDs dropped tray indicator errors from 15–20 per month to virtually zero across three hospitals and a surgery center.Compliance and confidence: Final Check provides photographic proof of tray accuracy, easing survey readiness and empowering technicians with verifiable documentation.Culture shift and retention: By embracing cutting-edge AI, SPD teams report higher confidence, lower turnover, and renewed trust from perioperative staff.Greg Warino, CRCST, CHL, is an experienced sterile processing leader with over a decade in perioperative support operations. He currently serves as the Market Director of Central Sterile Processing at Mercy Health, where he has led teams for nearly seven years, overseeing quality, compliance, and efficiency across multiple hospitals. Previously, he managed sterile processing at Steward Health Care for five years, strengthening his expertise in team leadership, process improvement, and patient safety.

In this episode of Wavelengths, the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Chuck Girt, Chief Technology Officer at FiberLight, to explore how broadband innovation is shaping the future of education.As schools embrace 1:1 devices, cloud-based curriculum, and even emerging AI-driven learning tools, their networks are under more pressure than ever. Girt brings over 35 years of experience deploying enterprise-grade and nonprofit anchor institution networks to the table, offering a roadmap for districts looking to future-proof their connectivity strategies.This conversation unpacks how fiber-first thinking can unlock new opportunities for students, especially in rural communities where connectivity gaps can make the difference between opportunity and isolation. Key Discussion Highlights: Fiber as the Anchor: Girt explains why fiber optics are the foundation for sustainable school networks—delivering the speed, reliability, and scalability needed to support everything from cloud LMS to immersive VR and AI-driven teaching. Designing for Dynamic Demand: He outlines how to build networks that handle heavy spikes in usage—like statewide testing bursts or lunchtime video surges—through redundant paths, resilient infrastructure, and local content caching. Choosing the Right Architecture: The episode breaks down the pros and cons of dark fiber vs. lit wave services, and why solutions like MPLS remain a practical, future-ready approach for many districts. Tackling Rural Roadblocks: Girt shares strategies to overcome the biggest hurdles in rural deployments—political resistance, cost justification, and tech debt—and how partnerships can turn small communities into connected hubs. Planning for Funding: With E-Rate and BEAD funds becoming clearer, he emphasizes why districts should build for long-term growth, not short-term bandwidth fixes, and how to align funding with scalable infrastructure plans. This episode offers timely insights for district CIOs, operators, and education decision-makers working to close the digital divide. From designing resilient, scalable networks to navigating funding realities, Girt lays out a blueprint for turning connectivity investments into tangible student outcomes.

The sterile processing industry stands at a pivotal moment. With surgical case volumes rising while departmental resources remaining flat, the pressure to “do more with less” has never been greater. Nowadays, sterile processing departments (SPDs) are struggling with high staff turnover and growing compliance requirements. And while these regulations are designed to improve patient safety, the added workload—combined with frequent staff shortages—can overwhelm teams, slow efficiency, and increase the likelihood of errors that put patients at risk. Against this backdrop, the upcoming Censis Technologies User Conference (CtUC) 2025, themed “Elevating the Standard,” arrives as both a reflection of industry challenges and a rallying call for solutions.So, what does “elevating the standard” look like in practice—and how can SPD leaders, technicians, and hospital partners rise to meet it?Welcome to ConCensis. In this episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale, sits down with three key leaders from Censis Technologies—Amanda Birkhead, Vice President of Product & Marketing; Sheena Moore, President; and Desiré Smith, Implementation Manager—to preview CtUC 2025 and unpack how the conference will help reimagine workflows, empower teams, and strengthen the SPD community at large.The main points of conversation…Training, empowerment, and connection: CtUC 2025 (being held virtually from September 8-10) is designed to equip SPD professionals with insights from industry experts, peers, and Censis leaders—fostering both education and community.Technology for “more with less”: From advanced reporting analytics to new AI-powered co-pilot tools, Censis is unveiling innovations that simplify workflows, reduce risk, and support technicians at every skill level.Community-driven impact: Beyond education, the conference emphasizes peer-to-peer collaboration, one-on-one engagement with Censis experts, and a ripple effect of shared best practices that can elevate the industry as a whole.Amanda Birkhead is a senior marketing and product management executive with over 20 years of B2B experience spanning software, services, and industrial solutions. She has held leadership roles at Fortive, Honeywell, and Censis Technologies, where she has driven digital transformation, delivered innovative product roadmaps, and built high-performance teams. Known for translating customer insights into profitable growth strategies, she specializes in global market expansion, strategic organizational transformation, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve measurable business impact.Sheena Moore is the President of Censis Technologies, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience across the healthcare, industrial, and manufacturing sectors. She has held senior roles at Fortive, Landauer, IDEX, and The Timken Company, where she led business transformations, operational optimization, and growth strategies. With a strong background in general management, sales, and customer-focused innovation, she is recognized for driving organizational performance and building high-impact teams in complex, global markets.Desiré Smith serves as Implementation Manager, overseeing on-site training for Go Lives and helping clients tailor workflows for maximum efficiency. With years of experience in SPD operations and client success, she bridges technical expertise with hands-on support. She is known for working side-by-side with customers to troubleshoot challenges and ensure the smooth adoption of Censis solutions.

In a healthcare ecosystem increasingly driven by data, sterile processing departments (SPDs) find themselves at a crossroads—balancing precision and pace, safety and speed. As hospitals look to reduce inefficiencies and protect patient safety, analytics tools are transforming sterile processing from an often overlooked backroom function into a vital, data-enhanced frontline of care. Research shows that missing instruments in surgical trays can cause significant delays and financial losses—costing hospitals hundreds of thousands annually—underscoring the critical role of real-time analytics in preventing these inefficiencies.So, how can frontline healthcare teams merge hard metrics with the soft skill of intuition to streamline operations, improve quality, and ensure safety? What role does data storytelling play in elevating sterile processing strategy?Welcome to ConCensis. In the latest episode, host Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B at MarketScale, sits down with Beth Perry, Business Intelligence & Analytics Engineer at Censis Technologies, to explore how blending data and intuition is not only possible but necessary in modern SPD operations. The two discuss Perry's unconventional path from journalism to healthcare analytics, and how narrative instincts can make raw numbers actionable.Key Takeaways from the Episode…Intuition Amplifies Metrics: Data analysis in SPDs mirrors journalism—asking the right questions, following patterns, and translating complexity into action. Beth highlights how technician intuition, like recognizing patterns in tray assembly speed, is vital for interpreting data trends.A Dashboard is Only as Good as Its Story: Beth shares insights on building dashboards that reveal both current performance and actionable paths forward. Clear visualization of productivity, quality, and instrument tracking empowers staff to trust their instincts and take decisive action.Human-Centric Analytics Lead to Real Impact: From reducing incomplete tray rates from 14% to 9% in one month to identifying training slowdowns, Beth emphasizes how visibility and ownership among SPD teams drive real performance gains.Beth Perry is a seasoned business intelligence and analytics professional with over 15 years of experience developing data solutions across healthcare, logistics, and technology sectors. At Censis Technologies, she has held multiple analytics-focused roles, most recently serving as an Engineer in Business Intelligence & Analytics, where she helped innovate the company's AI² platform for sterile processing departments. Known for her strong communication skills and ability to bridge technical insights with business needs, she has become a key driver of data-informed strategy and operational efficiency in healthcare settings.

As the global race to 6G heats up, telecom providers, governments, and tech companies are investing billions to advance the next generation of hyperconnected infrastructure. European operators urge regulators to release more spectrum to stay competitive, while U.S. programs like the USDA's ReConnect have funneled over $1 billion into rural fiber backhaul. Meanwhile, companies like NVIDIA, T-Mobile, and Cisco are developing AI-native 6G stacks, embedding intelligence into every layer of the network. The stakes are enormous: success could enable real-time autonomous vehicles, remote surgeries, and city-scale sensor networks.But with so many threads to weave together—from fiber backhaul to AI-driven edge compute—the critical question emerges: How do we build a wireless ecosystem capable of supporting the demands of tomorrow's hyperconnected world?On this episode of Wavelengths by Amphenol Broadband Solutions, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Swarun Kumar, the Sathaye Family Foundation Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University and Director of the WiTech Lab. Their conversation explores the cutting-edge research reshaping wireless protocols, powering low-energy IoT devices, and bridging the long-standing gaps between infrastructure and application development.Key discussion points include:The future of low-power IoT: enabling decade-long battery life for tiny, inexpensive sensors across industries from smart homes to healthcare.Why the industry's obsession with "Gs" may soon end, as software-driven networks evolve continuously rather than in rigid generational jumps.The urgent need for tighter integration between fiber and wireless infrastructure, plus how AI-driven edge compute will transform aggregation points into intelligent network hubs.Swarun Kumar is the Sathaye Family Foundation Professor at Carnegie Mellon University and leads the WiTech Lab, which pioneers next-gen wireless protocols, resilient edge architectures, and AI-powered resource orchestration. Prior to CMU, Kumar earned his PhD from MIT, specializing in Wi-Fi, cellular, and IoT communications. His interdisciplinary work is helping industries across healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing push wireless innovation from academic research into real-world deployment.

As the global race to 6G heats up, telecom providers, governments, and tech companies are investing billions to advance the next generation of hyperconnected infrastructure. European operators urge regulators to release more spectrum to stay competitive, while U.S. programs like the USDA's ReConnect have funneled over $1 billion into rural fiber backhaul. Meanwhile, companies like NVIDIA, T-Mobile, and Cisco are developing AI-native 6G stacks, embedding intelligence into every layer of the network. The stakes are enormous: success could enable real-time autonomous vehicles, remote surgeries, and city-scale sensor networks.But with so many threads to weave together—from fiber backhaul to AI-driven edge compute—the critical question emerges: How do we build a wireless ecosystem capable of supporting the demands of tomorrow's hyperconnected world?On this episode of Wavelengths by Amphenol Broadband Solutions, host Daniel Litwin sits down with Swarun Kumar, the Sathaye Family Foundation Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University and Director of the WiTech Lab. Their conversation explores the cutting-edge research reshaping wireless protocols, powering low-energy IoT devices, and bridging the long-standing gaps between infrastructure and application development.Key discussion points include:The future of low-power IoT: enabling decade-long battery life for tiny, inexpensive sensors across industries from smart homes to healthcare.Why the industry's obsession with "Gs" may soon end, as software-driven networks evolve continuously rather than in rigid generational jumps.The urgent need for tighter integration between fiber and wireless infrastructure, plus how AI-driven edge compute will transform aggregation points into intelligent network hubs.Swarun Kumar is the Sathaye Family Foundation Professor at Carnegie Mellon University and leads the WiTech Lab, which pioneers next-gen wireless protocols, resilient edge architectures, and AI-powered resource orchestration. Prior to CMU, Kumar earned his PhD from MIT, specializing in Wi-Fi, cellular, and IoT communications. His interdisciplinary work is helping industries across healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing push wireless innovation from academic research into real-world deployment.

 On this exciting Monday Night Live episode of Fishing the DMV, I'm joined by Daniel Litwin, the champion of the latest VA B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series event on the legendary Shenandoah River! Daniel racked up an impressive 90.75 inches to take the win — and tonight, he's breaking down the exact tactics, strategies, and adjustments that led to his success.Whether you're a kayak angler, river rat, or just looking to sharpen your game, this is a masterclass in targeting big river bass. From lure selection to reading current, Daniel reveals the secrets that can help you level up your river fishing game.

As next-generation broadband continues to transform digital experiences across the U.S., Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are reshaping how we think about infrastructure, speed, and scalability. The industry is no longer just about faster speeds—it's about smarter service, tailored rollouts, and future-ready networks that can meet the evolving needs of homes, businesses, and communities. In this episode of “Wavelengths,” the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin, the voice of B2B, sits down with expert guest Pragash Pillai, Chief Technology Officer at Hotwire Communications. Their in-depth conversation explores how Hotwire and similar providers approach deploying 25G and 50G Passive Optical Network (PON) trials. Key Topics from the Episode: Next-gen fiber technologies like 25G and 50G PON are proving scalable using networks already in the ground—cutting deployment costs and time. Whether it's high-traffic student housing or senior living facilities, use-case-specific broadband design ensures seamless, always-on experiences. From predictive maintenance to self-healing networks, AI-powered tools are redefining service reliability and fiber network management. Pillai brings more than two decades of telecom experience, having held leadership roles at Cablevision, Charter, and now Hotwire Communications. His focus on merging operational excellence with visionary thinking makes him a driving force behind Hotwire's innovation-led service model.

As next-generation broadband continues to transform digital experiences across the U.S., Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are reshaping how we think about infrastructure, speed, and scalability. The industry is no longer just about faster speeds—it's about smarter service, tailored rollouts, and future-ready networks that can meet the evolving needs of homes, businesses, and communities. In this episode of “Wavelengths,” the Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin, the voice of B2B, sits down with expert guest Pragash Pillai, Chief Technology Officer at Hotwire Communications. Their in-depth conversation explores how Hotwire and similar providers approach deploying 25G and 50G Passive Optical Network (PON) trials. Key Topics from the Episode: Next-gen fiber technologies like 25G and 50G PON are proving scalable using networks already in the ground—cutting deployment costs and time. Whether it's high-traffic student housing or senior living facilities, use-case-specific broadband design ensures seamless, always-on experiences. From predictive maintenance to self-healing networks, AI-powered tools are redefining service reliability and fiber network management. Pillai brings more than two decades of telecom experience, having held leadership roles at Cablevision, Charter, and now Hotwire Communications. His focus on merging operational excellence with visionary thinking makes him a driving force behind Hotwire's innovation-led service model.

In this episode of Wavelengths, hosted by Amphenol Broadband Solutions, Daniel Litwin discusses the evolution of smart cities and the crucial role of fiber broadband with Tyler Cooper, Editor-in-Chief at Broadband Now. As urban and rural areas adapt to new technological advancements, the need for robust connectivity, strategic investments, and inclusive digital policies has never been more important.Smart Cities Depend on Fiber Broadband for GrowthThe transition to smart cities is not an overnight process but a gradual transformation driven by infrastructure improvements. Many smart city initiatives, such as AI-powered traffic management, smart water systems, and IoT-driven public safety, operate behind the scenes, improving urban efficiency without direct consumer interaction. At the core of these advancements is fiber broadband, which provides the high-speed, low-latency connectivity needed for real-time decision-making. While consumers may not immediately notice these changes, the foundational improvements to citywide digital infrastructure are shaping the future of urban living.Bridging the Broadband Divide: Urban vs. Rural ChallengesThe disparity between urban and rural broadband access remains a pressing issue. Cities focus on upgrading existing infrastructure to support next-generation innovations, while many rural communities still struggle with basic internet access. Beyond infrastructure, there is also a digital literacy gap, where many residents in underserved areas lack the knowledge to fully utilize broadband services. Expanding fiber networks in rural areas is essential for telehealth, remote education, and economic opportunities. Without reliable broadband, rural communities risk being further marginalized in an increasingly digital world.The Role of BEAD Grants and Municipal Broadband SolutionsThe Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program presents a historic funding opportunity to address broadband gaps nationwide. State broadband offices are now responsible for ensuring that these funds are effectively distributed to underserved areas. Additionally, municipal broadband networks, where communities build and manage their own internet infrastructure, are emerging as a powerful solution. Cities like Chattanooga, Tennessee, have demonstrated the success of publicly owned fiber networks, offering high-speed, low-cost internet access to residents. As BEAD funding is deployed, local governments, policymakers, and community leaders must collaborate to ensure sustainable, future-proof broadband investments that support both smart city initiatives and rural connectivity.Conclusion: The Future is NowThe push for broadband expansion and smart city development is already shaping the way we live and work. While urban areas are racing toward technological innovation, rural regions must not be left behind. Ensuring universal access to high-speed internet is not just about connectivity—it's about economic growth, education, and community development. As BEAD funding rolls out, local leaders must take proactive steps to bridge the digital divide and create equitable, future-ready communities.

In this episode of Wavelengths, hosted by Amphenol Broadband Solutions, Daniel Litwin discusses the evolution of smart cities and the crucial role of fiber broadband with Tyler Cooper, Editor-in-Chief at Broadband Now. As urban and rural areas adapt to new technological advancements, the need for robust connectivity, strategic investments, and inclusive digital policies has never been more important.Smart Cities Depend on Fiber Broadband for GrowthThe transition to smart cities is not an overnight process but a gradual transformation driven by infrastructure improvements. Many smart city initiatives, such as AI-powered traffic management, smart water systems, and IoT-driven public safety, operate behind the scenes, improving urban efficiency without direct consumer interaction. At the core of these advancements is fiber broadband, which provides the high-speed, low-latency connectivity needed for real-time decision-making. While consumers may not immediately notice these changes, the foundational improvements to citywide digital infrastructure are shaping the future of urban living.Bridging the Broadband Divide: Urban vs. Rural ChallengesThe disparity between urban and rural broadband access remains a pressing issue. Cities focus on upgrading existing infrastructure to support next-generation innovations, while many rural communities still struggle with basic internet access. Beyond infrastructure, there is also a digital literacy gap, where many residents in underserved areas lack the knowledge to fully utilize broadband services. Expanding fiber networks in rural areas is essential for telehealth, remote education, and economic opportunities. Without reliable broadband, rural communities risk being further marginalized in an increasingly digital world.The Role of BEAD Grants and Municipal Broadband SolutionsThe Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program presents a historic funding opportunity to address broadband gaps nationwide. State broadband offices are now responsible for ensuring that these funds are effectively distributed to underserved areas. Additionally, municipal broadband networks, where communities build and manage their own internet infrastructure, are emerging as a powerful solution. Cities like Chattanooga, Tennessee, have demonstrated the success of publicly owned fiber networks, offering high-speed, low-cost internet access to residents. As BEAD funding is deployed, local governments, policymakers, and community leaders must collaborate to ensure sustainable, future-proof broadband investments that support both smart city initiatives and rural connectivity.Conclusion: The Future is NowThe push for broadband expansion and smart city development is already shaping the way we live and work. While urban areas are racing toward technological innovation, rural regions must not be left behind. Ensuring universal access to high-speed internet is not just about connectivity—it's about economic growth, education, and community development. As BEAD funding rolls out, local leaders must take proactive steps to bridge the digital divide and create equitable, future-ready communities.

In the latest episode of Amphenol Broadband Solutions' Wavelengths podcast, host Daniel Litwin sat down with Tyler Cooper, Editor-in-Chief at BroadbandNow Research, for a deep dive into the current landscape of broadband deployment and access across the United States. With 2025 underway, the conversation tackled key trends shaping the broadband industry, including the contrast between urban and rural connectivity, new technology rollouts, and the critical role of federal funding.The discussion examined how smart city initiatives are accelerating broadband development in urban areas, with AI-powered infrastructure and fiber deployment setting the stage for the cities of tomorrow. In contrast, rural communities continue to face significant hurdles, with over 22 million Americans still lacking basic broadband access. Cooper emphasized that while progress is being made, closing the rural-urban digital divide requires more than just infrastructure—it demands smarter funding strategies and localized decision-making.Key topics included the transformative potential of the BEAD program, the largest broadband infrastructure investment in U.S. history, and how state-level broadband offices are uniquely positioned to tailor solutions to local needs. The episode also highlighted the rise of fixed wireless access and fiber as critical technologies driving connectivity, while acknowledging the challenges of accurately measuring broadband access in underserved areas.As broadband technology continues to evolve, Cooper and Litwin agreed that both rural and urban environments must be equipped not only with access but with future-proof networks capable of supporting the growing demands of digital life.

In a recent episode of Amphenol Broadband Solutions' Wavelengths podcast, listeners learned about the exciting potential of robotics in the broadband industry. Host Daniel Litwin spoke with Abdullah Jassim, a field applications engineer at Amphenol Communications Solutions, to shed light on this evolving intersection of technology and telecommunications.The discussion dove into robotics' potential for revolutionizing network maintenance, with automation and edge data capturing enhancing processes in real time. Jassim highlighted the use of autonomous drones in inspecting complex infrastructure like wind turbine blades, demonstrating how robotics applications are becoming essential for operational efficiency.The duo explored the challenges of implementing these solutions in diverse telecom environments, from the high costs associated with early development stages to the training required to integrate these new processes. However, Jassim emphasized the long-term benefits of these investments, including improved safety and unprecedented precision.Advancements in AI-powered robotics have now spurred a trend of more autonomous, real-time maintenance that can adapt to challenging environments. This layer of intelligence contributes significantly to predictive maintenance and network optimization.As the dialogue on robotics in broadband continues, Jassim predicts a growing adoption rate across the industry thanks to technological advancements that drive down costs and increase effectiveness. This evolution, however, does rely on robust testing and careful, real-world application.Highlights• Discover the transformative potential of robotics in the broadband industry with insights from Abdullah Jassim, a field applications engineer at Amphenol Communications Solutions.• Explore how advancements like autonomous drones and AI-powered robotics revolutionize network maintenance, enhance operational efficiency, and enable real-time predictive solutions.• Learn about the challenges, long-term benefits, and growing adoption of robotics as host Daniel Litwin delves into this evolving intersection of technology and telecommunications.

In a recent episode of Amphenol Broadband Solutions' Wavelengths podcast, listeners learned about the exciting potential of robotics in the broadband industry. Host Daniel Litwin spoke with Abdullah Jassim, a field applications engineer at Amphenol Communications Solutions, to shed light on this evolving intersection of technology and telecommunications.The discussion dove into robotics' potential for revolutionizing network maintenance, with automation and edge data capturing enhancing processes in real time. Jassim highlighted the use of autonomous drones in inspecting complex infrastructure like wind turbine blades, demonstrating how robotics applications are becoming essential for operational efficiency.The duo explored the challenges of implementing these solutions in diverse telecom environments, from the high costs associated with early development stages to the training required to integrate these new processes. However, Jassim emphasized the long-term benefits of these investments, including improved safety and unprecedented precision.Advancements in AI-powered robotics have now spurred a trend of more autonomous, real-time maintenance that can adapt to challenging environments. This layer of intelligence contributes significantly to predictive maintenance and network optimization.As the dialogue on robotics in broadband continues, Jassim predicts a growing adoption rate across the industry thanks to technological advancements that drive down costs and increase effectiveness. This evolution, however, does rely on robust testing and careful, real-world application.Highlights• Discover the transformative potential of robotics in the broadband industry with insights from Abdullah Jassim, a field applications engineer at Amphenol Communications Solutions.• Explore how advancements like autonomous drones and AI-powered robotics revolutionize network maintenance, enhance operational efficiency, and enable real-time predictive solutions.• Learn about the challenges, long-term benefits, and growing adoption of robotics as host Daniel Litwin delves into this evolving intersection of technology and telecommunications.

High-speed internet access is synonymous with economic prosperity, however, the disparity in broadband infrastructure between urban and rural communities has never been more pronounced. As the digital revolution marches on, the divide widens, leaving rural communities deep in the shadows of technological advancement. But this stark reality centers an urgent call to action, spearheaded by initiatives like BEAD funding, which is aimed at revitalizing rural broadband infrastructure. Amidst this backdrop, the critical question looms: How can rural communities navigate the complex maze of broadband expansion to bridge the digital divide effectively?For another insightful episode of Wavelengths, an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin is joined by Brant Carter, Director of Industry Products at Sitetracker. The two unraveled the intricacies of broadband expansion in rural areas. This episode also explored the challenges, opportunities, and innovative strategies pivotal for the successful deployment of rural broadband infrastructure.In this episode, Litwin and Carter delved into:● The current state of rural broadband expansion and the unique challenges rural communities face, from geographical constraints to resource limitations.● Exploring actionable strategies for rural telcos to navigate the complex landscape of broadband deployment.● The Role of BEAD Funding and examining its impact on the rural broadband landscape and how it shapes the future of connectivity in rural America.Brant Carter is the Director of Industry Products at Sitetracker. With a distinguished career at the company, he has a wealth of experience in telecommunications infrastructure. His role includes deploying critical infrastructure across various sectors, managing multi-billion dollar projects globally. This has allowed Carter to be positioned as a leading voice in telecommunications infrastructure.

In a timely and important episode about the deployment and execution of federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding, several telecommunications experts weighed in on the program's future. With 2023 coming to a close, this conversation about BEAD comes at the right time as it marks a year filled with substantial updates and progress in broadband infrastructure initiatives. The BEAD initiative, part of a broader effort to revitalize and expand broadband infrastructure in the U.S., has seen significant progress over the year. Now, with all states and territories having submitted their BEAD funding proposals, this episode delves into the critical phase of this transformative project. The stakes are high as this funding aims to reshape and improve America's digital landscape.This subsequently raises the question, how effectively are the BEAD funds being managed and allocated, and what are the broader implications for U.S. broadband infrastructure?For a new episode of "Wavelengths," an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin brought together an impressive panel for a major roundtable discussion on BEAD funding. He was joined by Zachary Raley, SVP and Advisor to the CEO of Amphenol, Ben Elkins, CEO of AireBeam, and Diana Goovaerts, Executive Editor, Fierce Telecom and Silverlinings. The episode made a deep dive into the state of BEAD funding, exploring its achievements, challenges, and future trajectory.Several points tackled during the episode included:An evaluation of the successes and obstacles encountered in implementing BEAD funding.Assessing the strategic adequacy of proposals submitted by all 56 states and territories.Insights into the expected long-term effects of BEAD funding on U.S. broadband expansion.Zachary Raley is a seasoned advisor at Amphenol and its SVP. He has a unique perspective on equipment and hardware essential for broadband expansion. Ben Elkins is the CEO of AireBeam and provides an operator's viewpoint and is an expert on the success of the BEAD program in Arizona. Diana Goovaerts offers an editorial lens, discussing the broader context and critical issues surrounding BEAD funding.

In a timely and important episode about the deployment and execution of federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding, several telecommunications experts weighed in on the program's future. With 2023 coming to a close, this conversation about BEAD comes at the right time as it marks a year filled with substantial updates and progress in broadband infrastructure initiatives. The BEAD initiative, part of a broader effort to revitalize and expand broadband infrastructure in the U.S., has seen significant progress over the year. Now, with all states and territories having submitted their BEAD funding proposals, this episode delves into the critical phase of this transformative project. The stakes are high as this funding aims to reshape and improve America's digital landscape.This subsequently raises the question, how effectively are the BEAD funds being managed and allocated, and what are the broader implications for U.S. broadband infrastructure?For a new episode of "Wavelengths," an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin brought together an impressive panel for a major roundtable discussion on BEAD funding. He was joined by Zachary Raley, SVP and Advisor to the CEO of Amphenol, Ben Elkins, CEO of AireBeam, and Diana Goovaerts, Executive Editor, Fierce Telecom and Silverlinings. The episode made a deep dive into the state of BEAD funding, exploring its achievements, challenges, and future trajectory.Several points tackled during the episode included:An evaluation of the successes and obstacles encountered in implementing BEAD funding.Assessing the strategic adequacy of proposals submitted by all 56 states and territories.Insights into the expected long-term effects of BEAD funding on U.S. broadband expansion.Zachary Raley is a seasoned advisor at Amphenol and its SVP. He has a unique perspective on equipment and hardware essential for broadband expansion. Ben Elkins is the CEO of AireBeam and provides an operator's viewpoint and is an expert on the success of the BEAD program in Arizona. Diana Goovaerts offers an editorial lens, discussing the broader context and critical issues surrounding BEAD funding.

Smart devices have become integral to the day-to-day landscape for millions of people, so questions of privacy and security are even more pressing than ever. Today, “smart fridges” can do a whole lot more than refrigerating, thanks to how IoT has transformed the concept of a connected home into a living reality. Nonetheless, this gradual evolution brings with it the potential of security vulnerabilities. Some studies have found that 70 percent of IoT devices had vulnerabilities, highlighting that there are a lot of concerns in securing the digital connection needs of our personal lives.What are the risks do people face as more and more homes grow smarter, and what can be done to ensure the sanctity of our private spaces?On a new “Wavelengths” episode, an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin, interviewed Thomas Pace, CEO and co-founder of NetRise, to dissect the topic of privacy and security in the IoT realm. The two ventured into a detailed discussion on the current challenges and potential strategies to safeguard the increasingly connected habitats for much of the world.The discussion between Litwin and Pace also:Explored the most pressing security risks facing connected homes and how to mitigate them.Examined the role of mass-produced IoT devices and if manufacturers are doing enough for privacy and security.Discussed the US cyber trust mark and the shared responsibility in securing IoT ecosystems.Thomas Pace is the CEO and co-founder of NetRise. He is also an Advisor at HiddenLayer and Passage, respectively. Pace has substantial background in cybersecurity, particularly in IoT and industrial control systems. His experience spans years, from working ICS security at the Department of Energy and a key role at Cylance, where he managed IoT firmware and embedded system engagement. He has a focus on practical solutions and understands securing complex systems against evolving threats.Article written by Alexandra Simon.

Unprecedented connectivity thrives in today's world and the evolution of networks and network reliability has never been more dynamic. With 5G rolling out en masse and the Internet of Things (IoT) expanding its reach, the telecom industry is at the heart of this transformation. However, a critical factor often overlooked is the importance of continuous education for network professionals. According to a survey by Deloitte, 82 percent of organizations report a skills gap in technology-related roles, emphasizing the stakes for network reliability and resilience.So, what role does technical education play in maintaining robust networks, and why is upskilling your team not just a "nice-to-have" but a must-have?In a new episode of Wavelengths, host Daniel Litwin, "the voice of B2B," talked to Charles Dillard, the Training Manager for Amphenol Broadband Solutions, about the importance of technical education for network reliability. On the show the two explored the growing importance of network reliability and the role that continuous training plays in keeping the workforce updated on emerging technologies.The conversation between Litwin and Dillard also touched on:How with emerging technologies like 5G and IoT, the telecom networks are becoming increasingly complex. The stakes for maintaining a robust network have never been higher.The importance of a well-trained workforce, which can make the difference between seamless service or a catastrophic failure.Keeping the workforce updated with new technologies that directly impact network reliability, which is also crucial for maintaining reliable services.Charles Dillard is a seasoned expert in training within the telecom industry. He has over two decades of experience and is the Training Manager for Amphenol Broadband Solutions. His expertise spans both technology and the importance of human capital in the ever-changing telecom landscape. He has been instrumental in spearheading education initiatives within Amphenol Broadband Solutions to ensure the workforce is prepared for the technological advances that lie ahead.

Unprecedented connectivity thrives in today's world and the evolution of networks and network reliability has never been more dynamic. With 5G rolling out en masse and the Internet of Things (IoT) expanding its reach, the telecom industry is at the heart of this transformation. However, a critical factor often overlooked is the importance of continuous education for network professionals. According to a survey by Deloitte, 82 percent of organizations report a skills gap in technology-related roles, emphasizing the stakes for network reliability and resilience.So, what role does technical education play in maintaining robust networks, and why is upskilling your team not just a "nice-to-have" but a must-have?In a new episode of Wavelengths, host Daniel Litwin, "the voice of B2B," talked to Charles Dillard, the Training Manager for Amphenol Broadband Solutions, about the importance of technical education for network reliability. On the show the two explored the growing importance of network reliability and the role that continuous training plays in keeping the workforce updated on emerging technologies.The conversation between Litwin and Dillard also touched on:How with emerging technologies like 5G and IoT, the telecom networks are becoming increasingly complex. The stakes for maintaining a robust network have never been higher.The importance of a well-trained workforce, which can make the difference between seamless service or a catastrophic failure.Keeping the workforce updated with new technologies that directly impact network reliability, which is also crucial for maintaining reliable services.Charles Dillard is a seasoned expert in training within the telecom industry. He has over two decades of experience and is the Training Manager for Amphenol Broadband Solutions. His expertise spans both technology and the importance of human capital in the ever-changing telecom landscape. He has been instrumental in spearheading education initiatives within Amphenol Broadband Solutions to ensure the workforce is prepared for the technological advances that lie ahead.

As our world grows increasingly interconnected, the importance of leadership and personal growth has never been more critical. In an era where technology is shifting the landscape of industries and human interaction, there remains a timeless need for genuine connections, empathy, and values-based leadership. This is the theme of a recent episode of Straight Outta Crumpton, where veteran teacher and coach Mike Leissa shares his experiences and insights.What role can personal experiences and storytelling play in education and leadership? How can life lessons from a seasoned educator shape the future generations? These questions serve as the central theme of the discussion in this episode of Straight Outta Crumpton.Hosted by Daniel Litwin and Greg Crumpton, the Vice President of Service Logic, this episode invites Mike Leissa, a revered coach with over 40 years of experience in molding young minds and bodies. The conversation covers a range of topics from the impact of history on our present lives to the importance of discipline and hard work in achieving success.Main points of discussion from the episode include:The importance of personal experience and storytelling in teaching and leading.The impact of life lessons and history in shaping individuals and societies.The necessity of discipline and hard work in achieving success.Mike Leissa, our guest for this episode, is a seasoned teacher and coach with an impressive career spanning over four decades. His unique teaching methodology of incorporating personal stories and life lessons into academics has left a lasting impact on countless students and athletes.

As broadband infrastructure sees increased attention and widespread changes thanks to the $65 million infrastructure bill, which aims to increase broadband access through programs such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), how these programs are being implemented throughout country is important to follow. As internet service providers (ISPs) ramp up installations of broadband access, the ACP offers a different aspect in response to low-income families who already have service, but could benefit from additional opportunities that help them access better connectivity options.How has the ACP funding been useful?In the second episode of the “Wavelengths” podcast, host Daniel Litwin picked up where he left off in his interview with Ben Elkins, CEO of AireBeam, an Arizona-based fiber internet service provider. This time around the two discussed how funds for the ACP is being dispersed and how the ACP functions in contrast to the BEAD program.Litwin and Elkin further discussed …Differences between BEAD and ACP and the issues that each program addressesSeveral advantages that ACP funding offers for internet usersRecent results and the predicted future of the ACP“It helps out the families, it helps out the communities and I believe ACP will be not just a funding that's a one or two-year thing, I think it will go on for generations. I think they will keep funding it and I think it's a great program and I think that for the folks that need help, this is a great way and AireBeam's 100 percent behind it. We've been a practicing member of the ACP for a long time, we're excited about ACP, and we try to promote it all we can,” said Elkins.Ben Elkins is the CEO of Airebeam. He has over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications field and is a graduate of Arizona State University.

As broadband infrastructure sees increased attention and widespread changes thanks to the $65 million infrastructure bill, which aims to increase broadband access through programs such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), how these programs are being implemented throughout country is important to follow. As internet service providers (ISPs) ramp up installations of broadband access, the ACP offers a different aspect in response to low-income families who already have service, but could benefit from additional opportunities that help them access better connectivity options.How has the ACP funding been useful?In the second episode of the “Wavelengths” podcast, host Daniel Litwin picked up where he left off in his interview with Ben Elkins, CEO of AireBeam, an Arizona-based fiber internet service provider. This time around the two discussed how funds for the ACP is being dispersed and how the ACP functions in contrast to the BEAD program.Litwin and Elkin further discussed …Differences between BEAD and ACP and the issues that each program addressesSeveral advantages that ACP funding offers for internet usersRecent results and the predicted future of the ACP“It helps out the families, it helps out the communities and I believe ACP will be not just a funding that's a one or two-year thing, I think it will go on for generations. I think they will keep funding it and I think it's a great program and I think that for the folks that need help, this is a great way and AireBeam's 100 percent behind it. We've been a practicing member of the ACP for a long time, we're excited about ACP, and we try to promote it all we can,” said Elkins.Ben Elkins is the CEO of Airebeam. He has over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications field and is a graduate of Arizona State University.

Analyzing customer support, experience, technology, and processes at Amphenol Broadband Solutions.Improving operations, identifying issues and find new solutions and better experiences for customers. Pre-pandemic, the system was manual and once the pandemic hit there was a real disconnect with people working from home. Smooth and effective customer service is critical to the success of nearly every business. Good customer service qualities are rooted in clear communication, prompt service, and understanding of customer needs. According to HubSpot, 90% of Americans use customer service to decide whether or not to do business with a company.Pre-pandemic, Amphenol Broadband Solutions' customer service and ordering process looked very different. With drastic and quick changes, the company realized how critical it was to change its processes and discovered a lot in the process. Many tips are applicable to various industries.Hosted by Daniel Litwin, this episode of Wavelengths looks inward and discusses customer support and experience with Bill O'Donnell, Amphenol Broadband Solutions' Senior Director of Product Management & Customer Support.The episode covers… ● O'Donnell shares some challenges due to the dated system. ● The impacts of updating the system on a holistic level. ● Insights into how the customer service is improving and feedback.In terms of the ABS antiquated order processing system, O'Donnell said, “Some of the major challenges that were brought to light was really just being able to have data visibility.” He went on to share that the numbers were not adding up and that was creating a clear bottleneck in overall operations.Bill O'Donnell, Senior Director of Product Management & Customer Support, completed a master technician program at NCTI and worked at Comcast, Trilithic, and PCT International before joining Amphenol Broadband Systems' team seven years ago.

The availability of broadband in rural areas remains a big area of concern. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has seemingly addressed the issue by providing funding through RDOF, or the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, but the initiative isn't exactly foolproof.In this new episode of Wavelengths, host Daniel Litwin chatted with Dr. Christopher Ali, an associate media studies professor at the University of Virginia, and author of “Farm Fresh Broadband: The Politics of Rural Connectivity.” He emphasized that while RDOF is a sign that rural broadband and connectivity has a bright future to stay on pace with urban connection, the companies that can truly solve the issue are not benefactors of the fund. Dr. Ali said that the same companies manage to make it to the top ten of fund recipients, which prevents the more suitable companies from getting adequate funding.“One of the concerns that I have around this particular first round of RDOF is, ‘Have we just been funding what I call the largest and the loudest providers at expense of the local and regional providers — who have been the ones doing a lot more of the fiber to the home, fiber to the node, fiber to the curb, fiber to the tower — in recent years than the largest providers have?'” questioned Dr. Ali.As continued RDOF funding consistently goes to these more familiar companies, it strands companies that can truly address the rural broadband gaps. It is through mapping that the FCC is able to point out and target rural areas in need. But Dr. Ali said that this method is not that reliable, “I think one of the things that concerns me with all this money coming down the pipe, is that we are still using bad maps.”This became a glaring issue when demands for video conferencing arose during the pandemic, exposing poor connectivity across some regions.“I worry that where is this money going, literally, in the geography of the United States, and are we going to see uninhabited areas be funded for broadband,” said Dr. Ali.

Discussion about the current and future state of the global supply chain is a hot topic right now. Barry Holt, VP of Global Cable Operations for Amphenol Broadband sits down with host Daniel Litwin to discuss the short- and long-term effects plaguing the global supply chain and tips on how to overcome them. International events often affect the global supply chain - despite the event occurring hundreds or even thousands of miles away. In the Chinese city of Shanghai, which has incurred continuous lockdowns due to Covid-19, shipping is at a standstill. China's zero-policy on COVID has greatly impacted the wider global supply network - China houses 7 out of the 10 largest container ports in the world. This creates disruptions in sourcing raw material, goods, and other components, particularly for new broadband deployments. “We're still struggling through these supply chain issues, this effect of China shutting down, I don't think we've seen the effects yet…You know, our factories in China are restricted…right now we're trying to get over the hump,” said Holt, noting that it is unlikely to ease up anytime soon - the effects of it will continue to be felt throughout the world. In the short-term, finding other solutions for this delay could be vital, “I think going to other countries helps the global economy…but cutting relations…there's just no easy replacement for that supply chain,” said Holt. China's labor pool is deep - so much so that cutting relations with the goliath would cause more long-term pain than it's worth. Companies like AT&T have weathered the storm by diversifying its supplier base to navigate increasing tariffs elsewhere. But it's important to not burn past relationships in the process, “I suggest we can ride it out,” said Holt.

Connectivity is key. Delays are not. Daniel Litwin, the Voice of B2B, discussed major supply chain issues in the global economy and how they are creating broadband issues throughout the United States with Barry Holt, VP of Global Cable Operations at Amphenol Broadband Solutions.“We're a global presence…the 25% tariff on a lot of the product importing came fairly quickly. I think it affected everything global. For many years almost everything went back to China. That was a steady supply chain, and the world was really set up for that,” noted Holt on the supply chain prior to the pandemic's disruption.Disruption has shifted the industry and new policies are changing the domestic landscape, like sourcing steel from within the United States which has also affected the broadband industry. Holt said, “It's okay to shift that but those changes disrupt the supply chain that's been there for many years. So, what you're doing is really taxing local manufacturing to increase capacity and that hasn't been seen in many years.” These new changes exert pressure on an already pressured system that is struggling to cope with the quick changes, “It's just going to take time to adapt to,” explained Holt, also noting that the push might have had a less negative short-term effect if it had been phased in over time. Additionally, ports across the country are in crisis mode with ongoing negotiations between dock worker unions and organizations for better pay and limits on automation. This has also led to a slowdown along the supply chain - about six months tied up in those ports. Companies can make changes regarding port delivery location, but receiving the stock currently tied up in those ports is just a waiting game.

Daniel Litwin spoke to Patrick Coldewey, President and CEO of DigiTech, about the automation hiring process within the printing industry. The conversation covered a breadth of points, including the Great Resignation, skilled workers aging out, and how smaller companies use automation [in hiring] to their advantage. The Great Resignation is not showing any signs of slowing down, and in fact, recent labor statistics show that 4.3 million people quit their jobs in January 2022. This is only a slight improvement from the highest numbers that were seen in November 2021. Workers are biding their time to find a new opportunity, and only a few are reporting “buyer's remorse” or regret over quitting their jobs preemptively.Naturally, the printing industry hasn't been spared from this trend either. As a legacy workforce ages out and a new workforce fails to gain steam, the answers to more efficient printing processes might be found in automation technologies. This episode highlights the challenges of the Great Resignation and guides listeners to potential solutions and strategies to deal with the situation.

Improving broadband access is a major initiative in the U.S. Last year's infrastructure bill included substantial dollars to make it more accessible. Bill Price, the Vice President of Government Solutions for LightBox, joined Wavelengths host Daniel Litwin to discuss access and funding. Price, a broadband mapping architect, managed the development of one of the most granular, state-level broadband mapping programs in Georgia. The two also discussed what companies like LightBox are doing to bring high-speed internet to all U.S. residents.In addition to the infrastructure funding, additional money is available through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). While there's excitement about expansion, challenges remain.

In this episode of School Safety Today, host Daniel Litwin spoke with Raptor Technology's SVP of Product and Engineering, Chris Noell, on what it means to have best-in-class IT security requirements to reduce the likelihood of new and dangerous cybersecurity breaches impacting educational settings while compromising critical student and staff data.This important topic has come to the forefront of public-school initiatives due to the rise in cybersecurity breaches at the school level. According to According to the State of K-12 Cybersecurity: 2020 Year in Review, 377 school districts experienced a record-setting 408 publicly disclosed cybersecurity incidents (k12cybersecure.com). The issue is so prevalent that it gained the attention of the Biden administration. In fact, President Biden signed the K-12 Cybersecurity Act of 2021 to equip elementary and secondary schools with strategies to combat cyberattacks.

Industry 4.0 – What is it, and how can manufacturers make it a reality in their operations? In this episode of To the Edge and Beyond, host Daniel Litwin talks with Hector Martinez, an industrial automation expert at Intel, about manufacturing challenges fueling the push towards Industry 4.0 and the technologies that are making Industry 4.0 possible.The need for Industry 4.0 solutions is a result of many factors including supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rapidly changing customer demands. Adopting 4.0 solutions involves combining new technologies with legacy applications and allocating more power to edge computing, which can lower costs, improve resilience, and increase productivity. “Slowly but surely,” says Martinez, “manufacturers are realizing that incorporating the latest automation technologies will allow them to capitalize on all the data that gets generated during operations. Having this data will increase ease of use, reduce risk, and allow them to create more capable interfaces, algorithms, and models.”The switch to Industry 4.0 raises challenging questions. How do manufacturers:Maximize return on investments in legacy systems?Collect and use data effectively at the edge?Increase processing power and connectivity speeds?Address the demands of extreme industrial environments?According to Martinez, successful implementation of Industry 4.0 solutions depends on evaluating each manufacturer's needs and selecting a high-performing processor designed to excel at the edge. “The differentiator for this technology will be how flexible and easy it is to adopt and whether or not manufacturers can make efficient use of legacy applications and devices by incorporating edge solutions such as AI, digital twins, and robots,” says Martinez.“When you're in manufacturing, continuous improvement is part of the job, but the good news is that Industry 4.0 is within reach for most manufacturers.”To continue the conversation with Hector Martinez, connect with him on LinkedIn.Learn more about Intel's industrial automation solutions, visit:www.intel.com/iotwww.intel.com/industrialwww.intel.com/processorsSubscribe to this channel on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts to hear more from the Intel Internet of Things Group.