WIA Team

Tim House is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA). He leads the day-to-day operations of a thriving 35+ employee trade association.

Oversees telecommunications industry workforce development initiatives including the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP). Appointed by FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel to the Telecommunications Interagency Working Group, established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Interacts with Department of Labor, Department of Education, Department of Commerce, Congress and state and local governments on telecommunications industry education and workforce needs. Created the Telecommunications Education Center, a dynamic learning platform of more than 30 courses. Guides activities for industry-leading trade show and conference Connectivity Expo, aka “Connect (X).”

Tim joined the association in 2007 and has been a key contributor to the evolution of the organization to the industry’s leading voice on all things connectivity.

Prior to joining WIA, Tim spent nearly a decade at Discovery Communications Inc., where he was primarily responsible for developing consumer product marketing strategies for Discovery’s hit shows. His campaigns produced three New York Times® Best Sellers and have been featured in Ad Age, USA Today, TV Guide, The Washington Post and the New York Times.

A native Washingtonian, Tim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting and Cable from The Pennsylvania State University. He was inducted into Gonzaga College High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019 for his accomplishments in Track and Field.

Marta Sokol is Chief Financial Officer for the Wireless Infrastructure Association. She leads all finance, human resource and office management functions and is responsible for establishing the association’s culture consistent with its core values of innovation, collaboration and accountability. 

Prior to WIA, Marta held key finance positions at the SEED Foundation, The Society for Technical Communication and the Washington Capitals. Marta is an active member of the Finance and Administration Roundtable (FAR), which is the DC area’s only association dedicated exclusively to nonprofit business leaders. She currently serves on its Board of Directors.

Born and raised in Poznan, Poland, Marta attended the University of Economics and Business where she achieved her Master of Science in Finance and Banking. She later earned her Master of Business Administration in the U.S. at George Mason University. She is a Certified Public Accountant. 

In her formative years, Marta developed many skills necessary for success in business. Outside of her studies, she was a competitive ballroom dancer. She studied under the direction of the masterful choreographer, dancer and TV star Piotr Galiński, where her competitive spirit and disciplined approach became ingrained. 

Marta’s active lifestyle extended far beyond dancing. Skiing, table tennis and acting all captured her interest, but nothing was quite like satisfying her curiosity about the world around her through travel. Visiting other countries and experiencing cultures different from her own became a lifelong passion. Fittingly, in 2004, Marta moved to the United States with little more than a backpack and a dream to explore the magical place she knew only from her TV screen half a world away. 

Marta took several jobs and worked evenings to make ends meet while learning English and discovering American culture. Through determination and perseverance, she became a U.S citizen and ultimately landed in the suburbs of Washington DC, where she attended George Mason University and completed her MBA. 

Marta still dances on special occasions and enjoys traveling with her family. She lives in Burke, Virginia, with her son and daughter.

Mike Saperstein is the Senior Vice President, Government Affairs and Chief Strategy Officer for WIA. Mike leads the association’s external and government advocacy.

Mike joins WIA from the law firm of Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP where he was a partner. Mike recently served as Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships for USTelecom—The Broadband Association. Mike’s portfolio included promoting all means of connectivity, including state outreach and data analysis to highlight the broadband industry. In his previous role as VP, Policy & Advocacy at USTelecom, Mike worked to develop broadband infrastructure projects like the FCC’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund and other universal service efforts to further the reach of broadband. Mike also served as VP, Federal Regulatory at Frontier Communications, and practiced in the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. He started his legal career right here with WIA (then PCIA).

Mike received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and earned his J.D. from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law with a certificate from the Communications Law Institute.

Prior to law school, Mike worked in PR at Weber Shandwick in Chicago, primarily on the ‘got milk?’ campaign’s Milk Mustache Mobile traveling from coast-to-coast donning milk mustaches and pumping up milk’s nine essential vitamins and nutrients.

Mike lives in Alexandria, VA with his family. He is also on the board of the FCBA Foundation, the vestry of his local church, and co-chairs the groundskeeping committee at the community pool.

Deb Bennett is WIA’s Vice President of Apprenticeship, leading the operations of the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) to provide technical assistance, training resources, support, and access to incentive funding for our registered Employer Sponsors.

Amelia De Jesus is the Vice President of Workforce Solutions at the Wireless Infrastructure Association, leading the development of WIA’s Workforce Services as the association focuses on developing America’s highly skilled broadband workforce through innovative sector partnerships.

Amelia has over two decades of experience in the wireless industry. Prior to joining WIA, she worked at Crown Castle, where she served as the national vice president. She has diverse industry experience, having worked for carriers, service, and infrastructure providers. A leader in the wireless industry, she also served as president of the WIA-affiliated Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum from 2017-2019, and she continues to be passionate about coaching and advocacy for women.  

Outside of work, Amelia enjoys a variety of activities, including competitive sports and volunteering. She loves soccer and currently serves as vice-chair on the Board of Terminus Legion, Atlanta United FC’s first supporter group. Amelia also enjoys volunteering with Meals by Grace and the Children’s Restoration Network with her daughter.

Tracy Ford is Vice President, Member Services at the Wireless Infrastructure Association and guides membership initiatives for the association, including the In-Building Forum, the Infrastructure Developers Forum, the Professional Services Forum and more. 

Tracy has spent more than two decades covering the rapidly changing wireless industry, tracking its changes as it grew from a voice-centric marketplace to the dynamic data-intensive industry it is today. She started her technology journalism career at RCR Wireless News and has held a number of titles there, including associate publisher and executive editor. A graduate of the Minnesota State University-Moorhead, Tracy holds a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis on public relations. 

Jason leads the development of business generating opportunities for WIA’s members and partners as Vice President, Partnerships and Development. As a proven business-builder, Jason has taken a start-up from zero in revenue through acquisition, doubled association membership, and launched multiple new media, event, and association business models.

At FierceMarkets, Jason was the first salesperson leading market engagement for FierceWireless. In addition to twenty years of experience in telecom, he launched media and event brands in several industries, including energy, government, and IT. At the Smart Cities Council, Jason engaged with companies around the world to encourage them to partner with us to build more livable, workable, and sustainable cities.

In his spare time, Jason coaches little league baseball and is a roadie for his daughter’s band.

Karmen has over twenty year of experience working in the wireless industry focusing on legislative and regulatory action, real estate, zoning, and permitting issues with states and municipalities. Most recently, Karmen was the Vice President of Government Affairs for Crown Castle working with state and local governments driving tower, fiber, and small cell deployments nationwide. During her tenure with Crown Castle, Karmen held a variety of roles including Network Permitting and Utilities Director, Tower Real Estate Director, and Government Relations Director leading regional and national teams.

Prior to joining Crown Castle, Karmen worked at American Tower and where she served as DAS Director and National Zoning Manager. She and her teams supported building hundreds of towers and small cells nationwide. Karmen started her telecommunications career in fixed wireless at Teligent in Washington, DC.

Karmen graduated magna cum laude from Spring Hill College in Mobile, AL with a Bachelor of Science in International Relations and Minor in Economics, a Juris Doctor from Tulane School of Law in New Orleans, LA, and is licensed to practice law in Maryland and New Jersey.

Sarah Channon currently serves as Director of Sales and Business Development at WIA, bringing 15 years of commercial, strategic, and client centric experience.

Prior to joining WIA, Sarah led the commercial functions for brands across the telecoms industry, including a leading international wireless infrastructure media company where she set the sales strategy, launched new revenue streams, and connected industry leaders across the globe.

At WIA, Sarah is now responsible for delivering strategic solutions for partners across the connectivity ecosystem. Her main objective is to offer value and collaborative ideas for industry leaders as part of the Meetings and Events team, which is responsible for Connect (X) – the largest 5G infrastructure event in North America.

Having recently relocated back to the US after 15 years in the UK, Sarah spends her time outside the office teaching her British husband the difference between “chips” and “fries,” reconnecting with family and friends, and obsessively texting her son who is attending University in London.

Ashley is WIA’s Director, State Wireless Associations. For the past six years, she has been working with the state wireless associations to help remove barriers to 5G deployment and to support their communities through various initiatives. Currently nine state associations are members of WIA.

Ashley began her career in wireless infrastructure at TowerCo as the Corporate Marketing Manager, where she led the team to a 358% increase in website registration, or almost 4000 new prospects. Prior to her role there, she spent over 20 years in media, marketing, and advertising, working on accounts like Arby’s, Coca-Cola, Delta, Dodge, Frito-Lay, Hardee’s, Lever Brothers, 20th Century Fox, and more.

Ashley graduated from Louisiana State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Sciences in Advertising Journalism.  She is an obsessed Tigers fan and saw them, in-person, win the 2020 National Championship in New Orleans. When not cheering on her Tigers, she is baking up a storm or on the golf course. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, two girls, and three dogs.

Trish Wildt currently serves as WIA’s Director of Meetings and Events, where she leads the logistics team in producing Connect (X) and other WIA events throughout the year.

Prior to joining WIA, Trish worked in the events and meetings industry for over 15 years at several associations.

Originally from Baltimore, Trish graduated from Radford University with a degree in Fashion Design and a minor in Marketing.

Outside of work, Trish lives in Aldie, VA with her husband and two young children. She enjoys spending quality time with family, friends, working out, frequenting local vineyards, and traveling.

Stephen Keegan is Senior Counsel, Government and Legal Affairs for WIA’s Government Affairs team. He is responsible for analyzing legal and policy issues affecting the wireless industry before state and federal policymakers and rendering opinions on such matters.

Prior to joining WIA, Stephen interned with the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology where he worked on issues regarding broadband access and telecommunications mergers.  Additionally, he has worked for the Broadband Division at the Federal Communications Commission, the Public Policy department at Comcast, and the Telecommunications Industry Association.

Stephen received his J.D. in 2019 from American University Washington College of Law (WCL) where he served on the editorial board of the Business Law Review and as President of the Information Security and Privacy Law Society.  Stephen graduated from Siena College, where he studied Psychology and Computer Science.

LaShena Honore serves as the Controller at WIA. She works alongside the Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for the critical accounting functions, payroll, and financial reporting for the Association. Prior to joining WIA in 2017, she worked in the financial services, commercial real estate, and public accounting industries and has over 10 years of accounting experience.

LaShena is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and Greater Washington Society of CPAs (GWSCPA).

LaShena studied accounting and business at the College of William and Mary and graduated with a Masters of Accounting and Bachelor of Business Administration.

LaShena spends her free time traveling and spending time with family and friends.  She lives in Charlotte, NC, with her husband and daughter.

Matt serves as the Senior Manager, Finance and Technology at WIA, where he manages information technology and security for the organization. His prior experience includes over 15 years in accounting, finance, and information technology, and over 10 years at nonprofits, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon and United Way Worldwide. 

Matt studied finance and economics at York College of Pennsylvania and is a Certified Public Accountant in Virginia. He also holds multiple certificates in cybersecurity. 

Outside of work, Matt lives in Carlisle, PA on a small farm and enjoys working outside, coaching soccer, playing soccer and basketball, and skiing.

Kristen is the Community Manager for WIA, where she engages with members and provides opportunities for them to showcase their thought leadership through WIA’s blog, working groups, and white papers.

Kristen has nearly 25 years of experience in the wireless industry, including as a reporter and editor for RCR Wireless News, having covered cellular carriers, tower companies, and public safety, as well as for Mission Critical Communications magazine, where she covered critical infrastructure, public-safety radio networks, and 9-1-1.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Kristen is based in Colorado and spends her free time raising teenage triplet boys, backyard birdwatching, and uncovering her family history. She is a third-generation FCC amateur radio licensee, call sign KE0EYY.

Alex Golden is the Project Manager in Workforce Development for the Wireless Infrastructure Association, and he operates across the numerous initiatives that the Workforce team has undertaken. Alex joined WIA in November of 2021 and immediately became a key performer on existing projects as well as new endeavors.

Prior to joining the association, Alex worked as a Deputy Regional Program Manager for Parsons Corporation on their Technical Support Services Contract with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While supporting the operations of the contract’s largest region, Alex also managed multiple programs consisting of a total of several hundred unique projects for the FAA’s Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health Services. He earned his Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate in 2019.

Alex enjoys a variety of activities outside of work, particularly all things family and sports. These two joys have been demonstrated through coaching Special Olympics for approximately 15 years as both the head coach of an adult basketball team and an assistant coach for the softball team. Alex has been fortunate enough to share this experience with his father (a multi-sport coach), mother (a multi-sport team manager), brother (a multi-sport gold-medal winning athlete), and wife (the soccer coach). While there may be debate in the family about the best coach, there is no doubt about who is the best athlete. Alex and his wife live in Silver Spring, MD with their two young boys who always keep them on their toes.

Rachael Hill serves as WIA’s Project Manager of Apprenticeship, working to expand and improve upon the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) offerings. She has been contributing to the growth of TIRAP, delivering subject matter expertise and technical assistance to Employer Sponsors of apprenticeship.  

Outside of work, Rachael enjoys being outdoors- swimming, kayaking, nature walking, birding, gardening; and visiting local breweries and food trucks with her husband. 

Sara currently serves as the Senior Manager for the Workforce Solutions team. She has been working for the organization since July 2022. She is responsible for several executive team projects including the 5G Ohio Sector Partnership.

Prior to joining WIA Sara was a professional school counselor, developing career programs for K-12 schools. Sara spent 7 years in public education. Before her time in public education, she served in the United States Airforce for 8 years, working in logistics and senior recruiting.

Sara is a distinguish graduate from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA where she earned her M.S.Ed. in Counselor Education. Her undergraduate degree is in Business Administration from Strayer University. She holds certifications in school counseling K-12, teaching of Business, Computer and Information Technology K-12, and Cooperative Education Coordinator from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Sara currently lives in the Greater Pittsburgh area with her son Ethan, dog Bear and cats Chloe and Claire. She enjoys being outdoors, landscaping, and interior decorating.

Tessa Doets is the Manager of Training and Education at the Wireless Infrastructure Association. Tessa joined WIA in September 2023 and works across all areas of the Telecommunications Education Center (TEC), WIA’s dynamic learning program devoted to improving education, quality of work and safety within the telecommunications industry.

With a long background in education and healthcare, Tessa brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. She is driven by a desire to making education accessible for all and values a data-driven approach. Originally from the Netherlands, Tessa has a deep appreciation for global perspectives and cultural diversity.

Tessa lives in Bethesda, Maryland with her husband and three boys where they can often be found exploring the Capital Cresent Trail by foot or bike.

Mackenzie Germinario is the Manager of Meetings and Events, where she collaborates with the meetings and events team to ensure the success of Connect X- the Connectivity Expo and other key WIA events throughout the year.

Prior to joining WIA, Mackenzie has over six years of experience in the event industry, Mackenzie has built a strong skill set in logistics and teamwork through her previous roles in various organizations.

Mackenzie graduated from Radford University with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management and is both a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and a Digital Event Strategist (DES). Outside of work, Mackenzie enjoys life in the Blue Ridge Mountains with her husband and two dogs. She enjoys exploring the Appalachian Trail and local state parks and spending quality time with family and friends.

Brian Sapherstein is the Business Development Manager in Workforce Development for the Wireless Infrastructure Association. In his role, Brian partners with enterprises, institutions, and those searching for world-class industry training. Brian joined WIA in June of 2023 and immediately began developing relationships with WIA members and existing partners. 

Before joining WIA, Brian was the Senior Vice President of Admissions for Spartan College of Aviation and Technology. In this role, Brian was responsible for recruitment efforts at five campuses sprawled across the United States. Prior to this, Brian spent thirteen years working for Walden University. Brian’s experiences at Walden varied from new student enrollment to continuing student experience, and data analytics. 

Outside of work, Brian prioritizes time with his family. He can be found at his daughter’s softball games or his son’s Taekwondo class most evenings. Brian takes advantage of time in the car with his family to share his passion for music. Even in the office, Brian consistently references song lyrics or background during casual conversations. Originally from New Jersey, Brian resides in Odenton, Maryland, with his wife and children. 

Michael serves as the Senior Associate, Sales and Business Development at WIA. He’s a member of the Meetings and Events team, responsible for Connect (X) – the Connectivity Expo –  the largest 5G infrastructure show in North America. Michael focuses on business development for the event, while maintaining valued partnerships with longtime exhibitors.

Michael studied at St. Mary’s College of Maryland and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. Following college, he interned at the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and worked in the music industry in Los Angeles.

When not working, Michael spends his time with family and friends and makes music when he can. He tries to fit in at least a good hour of guitar practice every day to stay loose and ready whenever a spontaneous jam session is about to take place and he gets the call.

Jonathan serves as the Associate, Sales and Business Development at WIA. He’s a member of the Meetings and Events team, responsible for Connect (X) – the Connectivity Expo – the largest 5G infrastructure show in North America. Jonathan focuses on business development for the event, in addition to connecting industry leaders with membership benefits and opportunities offered through WIA.

Jonathan studied at the George Washington University – Elliott School and graduated with a Master of Arts in International Affairs. Following grad school, he was a Congressional staffer, Policy and Research Project Manager at a regional economic development organization, and Associate Director of Member Services at a crypto and digital asset trade association.

When not working, Jonathan spends his time cooking for friends and consuming as many podcasts as he can. Cajun and Creole cuisines are in-house specialties in Jonathan’s kitchen.

Madeline Sorg currently serves as WIA’s Government Affairs Associate, where she provides support for the Government Affairs team on federal, state, and regulatory issues. 

Prior to joining WIA, Madeline was Senior Policy Analyst at communications law firm Wilkinson Barker Knauer.  She interned for the Ohio Democratic Party, Hillary for America, Subject Matter, and Berger Hirschberg Strategies.

Madeline is a 2019 graduate of Barnard College of Columbia University, where she majored in Political Science and American Studies.  She is originally from Middlebury, Indiana.

Ani Mendoza currently holds the position of Accounting Coordinator at WIA, where he provides essential support to the Controller and the accounting team. His professional journey began as an Accounting Specialist at Manna Development LLC, a Panera Bread franchisee located in Encinitas, California.

Ani pursued his undergraduate education at California State University San Marcos, earning a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, with desire to pursue his Masters within the upcoming years.

A California native, Ani made a significant move to Washington, D.C. at the start of 2023, and since then, he has been dedicated to exploring and immersing himself in the vibrant offerings of the nation’s capital.

In his free time, Ani is an advocate and volunteer within the QTBIPOC and Deaf Community. Outside of his professional and community engagements, he likes to stay active outdoors. You can often find him cycling, running, hiking, laying out at the park, bouldering, or working out at the gym. His passion for adventure leads him to continually discover and embrace new experiences.

Shay Harris serves as Staff Coordinator & Executive Assistant to WIA President and CEO Patrick Halley. She proudly wears the “Jill of All Trades” hat, as she is responsible for a multitude of office responsibilities.

Prior to joining WIA, Shay held the title of Human Resources and Office Coordinator for an IT/ Tech organization. It was here she learned the importance collaborating across departments, communicating effectively, and running the local office seamlessly.

Shay graduated from the University of Lynchburg with a BA in Communication & Media Studies. She was a proud member and served as the secretary of the Zeta Nu Chapter of Kappa Delta Sorority and Vice President of the Debate team.

When not working, you can find her spending time with her chihuahua, Aero (named after the band Aerosmith) or perusing around Target. She enjoys running her book club, cooking, and spending time with her family. 

Jessica Shine serves as the Coordinator for Meetings and Events. She works alongside WIA’s Meetings and Events team to ensure registration for all WIA events runs smoothly and to provide superb customer service to all guests. Prior to joining WIA in 2023, Jessica worked at a management association in Chicago where she oversaw membership management, conference and registration logistics, and foundation grants work.

Jessica earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing at the University of Tampa. When she wasn’t hammocking between two palm trees, she was highly involved in her leadership department and warmly provided new students with career guidance. Additionally, she conducted on-campus workshops in service to the Tampa Bay homeless community.

Although she misses the warm Florida weather, she’s delighted to be closer to family in the Philadelphia region. She’s thankful to watch her young nephew grow and to enjoy football Sundays with the rest of the family. In her free time, she volunteers weekly at a local animal shelter, loves to explore the outdoors, teaches her old dog new tricks, fumbles around with musical instruments, and cooks healthy food. She’s always excited to fill her time with new hobbies and creative skills. Jessica has a large appetite for learning and wishes to pursue (at least) a Master of Science in Psychology.

Sara Laymon is the Workforce Solutions Coordinator for the Wireless Infrastructure Association. Sara brings her extensive background in workforce and business development, higher education, and Registered Apprenticeship creating career pathways nationwide in various industries. Through this work, she provided employers with strategic assistance to increase employee educational opportunities and retention.   

Sara has worked with a multitude of entities such as state agencies, community leaders, and employers to create sustainable and innovative solutions reducing labor turnover and shortages. Prior to joining WIA, Sara developed and maintained partnerships with employers and sponsors managing Registered Apprenticeship programs. She also worked for a community college as a liaison between departments, community organizations, and government agencies developing an Information Technology Apprenticeship program and managing a multimillion-dollar grant. In her roles, she was responsible for various financial responsibilities and Customer Relationship Management systems.

When not working, she loves to spend time with her bunnies and enjoys outdoor activities- snowboarding, fishing, and hiking with her husband.