September 2, 2015, Washington, D.C. – The Telecommunications Industry Registered

Apprenticeship Program (TIRAP) this week announced that Laurie Gebhardt, Verizon Wireless’ Director of Network Engineering & Operations Support, has joined its Board of Directors, filling the final seat in its list of experienced industry thought leaders. Gebhardt will provide board oversight of TIRAP’s communication and liaison with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL). In this role, Laurie will work with the USDOL to ensure that employer’s human resources departments receive the support they need to tap the benefits of apprenticeship and strengthen the telecommunications industry work force.

The board is excited to welcome Ms. Gebhardt to an impressive group of individuals who have spearheaded the telecommunications industry’s efforts to strengthen training and career development programs,” said TIRAP Chairman Scott Kisting, Senior Vice President for Risk & Compliance at Midwest Underground Technology, Inc. “Laurie brings her expertise to bear on a myriad of issues. The board and the U.S. Department of Labor look forward to her guidance as we seek to credential positions in the telecommunications industry that will ensure quality and efficiencies in the safest of manners.

TIRAP’s Board is comprised of: Scott Kisting, Senior Vice President of Risk and Compliance, Midwest Underground Technology, Inc.; David Sams, Vice President of Risk Management for SBA Communications Corporation; Jonathan Adelstein, President and CEO of PCIA – The Wireless Infrastructure Association; Beau Aero, President and Founder of GME Supply; Dave Anthony, Founder, President and CEO of Shenandoah Tower Service; Richard Cullum, Manager of Quality Assurance, Engineering and Operations for Crown Castle USA Inc.; Kelley Dunne, President and Co-Founder of Warriors 4 Wireless; Art Pregler, Director of National Cell Site Programs at AT&T; Paul Roberts, Vice President of Compliance for American Tower Corporation; and Jim Walker-Pontius, Director of Network Operations at U.S. Cellular.

Gebhardt has more than 25 years of network experience in various roles at Verizon Wireless. After beginning her career in inventory and asset management, Gebhardt moved into operations as a Cellular Technology and Operations Manager.  From there she moved on to work in project management and area construction oversight before transitioning to her current role as Director Engineering & Operations Support.

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The Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program (“TIRAP”) is a joint venture of telecommunications companies, industry associations and the U.S. Department of Labor (“DoL”) that develops DoL-credentialed apprenticeship programs available to qualified employers for the training and career development of the telecommunications workforce. The TIRAP’s mission is to partner with stakeholders to promote safety, enhance quality, and enable education and advancement opportunities in the telecommunications workforce that will meet network infrastructure build out needs.