The telecommunications world recently learned that Chris Sambar, AT&T’s Executive Vice President and Head of Network, will be departing the company on October 11. This announcement came via a memo circulated among AT&T employees, which stressed his significant contributions over a 22-year tenure. Sambar played a vital role in propelling the company’s connectivity efforts, especially in 5G advancement, launching FirstNet, and expanding fiber networks across many homes and businesses.
AT&T Chief Operating Officer Jeff McElfresh took the opportunity to acknowledge Sambar’s contributions to the business and the industry, stating, “I’d like to thank Chris for his impact and contributions to our business and industry throughout his career. I wish him and his family the best in the future.” Despite Sambar’s departure, AT&T has not revealed any succession plans, keeping the future of their network leadership in suspense.
Sambar’s professional journey continues with his recent role on the board of AST SpaceMobile. AST SpaceMobile is working towards establishing a constellation of satellites aimed at providing space-based cellular service to regular mobile devices. This revolutionary step, which AT&T is part of, takes aim at bridging cellular connectivity gaps faced by billions globally.
This collaboration between AST SpaceMobile and AT&T may chart new frontiers in telecommunications. The idea of delivering direct-to-device communications via satellites could redefine connectivity, reaching areas with traditionally limited network reach.
Looking ahead, Sambar’s move to AST SpaceMobile offers the industry a glimpse of a potential future where satellite networks could complement, if not transform, terrestrial connectivity paradigms. While his departure from AT&T marks the end of an era, it sets the stage for exciting possibilities in expanding global connectivity.
