Back in 2011 when Vernon called time on his 15-year aviation career, little did he know that during the next 10 years, he would morph into a radio comms specialist! Not a common career progression but one that has certainly proven to be interesting, challenging and at times, even fun!
Vernon is no stranger to making a career pivot. He was in his thirties when he decided to leave a solid job, retrain and try his luck as a commercial pilot. Hard work combined with good fortune enabled him to carve out a successful flying career. He worked for Mountain Air, Air NZ and then for 2 years, on contract to Air India, flying 777 jets out of Delhi and Mumbai. When that contract ended he again decided it was time for a change.
So, in late 2012, along with his wife Catherine, he took over the helm at Alcom Communications. Buying Alcom was primarily driven by a desire for a lifestyle change. It was also an opportunity to fulfil an ambition to run a successful business.
While Vernon’s experience with radio communication was limited to the use of aviation radios and a good knowledge of the phonetic alphabet, he recognised the value of having a technology-based business with a service aspect. He also saw potential to develop the rental and radio network strands of the business.
In the early days, he relied on Alcom’s technicians to provide the technical expertise while he and Catherine got to grips with running the business and understanding the customer base and industry. However, with radio technology and its applications developing rapidly it wasn’t long before Vernon realised he wanted to get more involved with the technical side and learn how the business could offer more innovative solutions to customers.
He forged a close liaison with Laurie Colvin, Colvins Communications, who has become his technical mentor. Laurie had a vision to develop a DMR Tier 3 radio network to service the forestry and farming sectors along the remote East Coast and Central North Island area. Under Laurie’s leadership Alcom, Communicate NZ (Napier) and Colvins have successfully worked in partnership to build the Tait DMR Tier 3 Network. Many in the forestry sector have already transitioned onto the trunked digital network and there are plans to expand coverage as demand for this radio-as-a-service option grows across a range of sectors.
While Vernon does not profess to be a technical expert he has developed a sound knowledge of the principles of radio communication, channel licensing and programming and DMR Tier 3 capabilities and their real-life applications. He is available to meet with anyone who needs general advice or is interested in a demo of DMR technology features that enhance worker safety and operational efficiency. He is also available to visit customers onsite to assess communication requirements and offer advice on cost-effective solution options.
Using the radio was an integral part of Vernon’s job during his flying career. He is now proud to be a radio comms specialist. He’s keen to keep learning and spreading the word about how radio communications can add value to a wide range of customers.
Get in touch if you would like to come in for a demo or a chat. Vernon and the team are always happy to hear from you.
