OUR TEAM
Chris Pedersen, Vice President, Development and Planning
Chris Pedersen acts as the primary relationship manager for placement and development of new broadband programming both nationally and internationally. Chris identifies the broadband needs of various state agencies, libraries, educational systems, etc., and responds with comprehensive solutions. He also speaks Danish and Spanish.
Wes Kerr, Director, Community Solutions
Wes Kerr helps ensure the implementation of Technology Action Plans developed for communities through Connected Nation’s Connected Community Engagement Program (ConnectedSM) and works closely with clients and stakeholders to provide solutions that will help them meet their technology goals.
Heather Gate, Vice President, Digital Inclusion
Heather is responsible for strategy development and implementation of programs that impact Digital Inclusion for all people in all places. She provides project management services including identification of program challenges and goals as well as day-to-day oversight and funding research. Heather served on the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Advisory Committee on Diversity and Digital Empowerment (ACDDE) from 2017 to 2021 and, in November 2021, was appointed as Chair to the rechartered committee which was redesignated as the Communications Equity and Diversity Council (CEDC). Heather holds a bachelor of science in computer science, a master’s in computer science, and a master’s in public administration from Kentucky State University.
Pam Waggoner,
Broadband Solutions Manager
Pam Waggoner serves as Broadband Solutions Manager. Pam coordinates and manages the activities of regional planning teams across the state. Pam provides “train-the-trainer” activities to the regional planning teams on the broadband landscape to spur digital literacy activities in each region. In addition, with assistance from Connected Nation’s communications staff and the volunteers of the regional planning teams, she works to increase regional and local awareness of the planning teams, the planning process, the benefits of increased broadband adoption, and Connected Nation's state programs through the media and local organizations.
Catherine Krantz, Broadband Solutions Manager
Catherine Krantz serves as Broadband Solutions Manager. Catherine coordinates and manages the activities of regional planning teams across the state. Catherine provides “train-the-trainer” activities to the regional planning teams on the broadband landscape to spur digital literacy activities in each region. In addition, with assistance from Connected Nation’s communications staff and the volunteers of the regional planning teams, she works to increase regional and local awareness of the planning teams, the planning process, the benefits of increased broadband adoption, and Connected Nation's state programs through the media and local organizations.
Claudia Rico, Project Manager
Claudia provides administrative project oversight for all Connected Nation projects. She is responsible for administering project plans, managing workflow and timelines, working directly with clients, and providing support for project leads.
Career Opportunities
Connected Nation, Connected Texas' parent organization, has been recognized as a Top 10 Best Places to Work Winner for its commitment to providing a positive and productive work environment where employees can excel. Connected Texas offers a unique benefits package including: vacation/sick days; holiday pay; health, dental, and vision insurance; professional development opportunities; and reimbursement for broadband services and fitness memberships. Our office environment is professional and high-tech and our team members are career- and team-focused.
