Local Students Ignite Curiosity with Visit to Volcano Communications.
What is now becoming a yearly tradition, Mrs. Reeder’s 4th grade class from Pioneer Elementary School paid a special visit to Volcano Communications Group for an unforgettable, behind-the scenes look at how Internet, phone, and TV services come to life.
Technology and Glass the Heart of the Modern Internet
The day kicked off with an exciting demonstration by Marcus Bridgeman, Volcano’s senior network engineer. He guided students through how traditional landline phones work, a first for many in the class. Marcus brought out an old-school rotary phone and showed how voice travels across our network, linking the past with today’s modern communication. His energy and clear explanations set the tone for an engaging and educational day.
Melissa Grow, from our IT department, also shared her journey with the students. She talked about her day-to-day work solving technical issues and helping implement new software tools to support Volcano’s growing operations. Melissa explained how she originally started in the Business Office and through dedication and continued learning, worked her way up into her current IT role, offering students a real-world example of career growth within the company
Next up was Max Wolfe from our Engineering team, who impressed students with a live fiber splicing demo. Max showed how incredibly thin fiber strands are fused together to create the high-speed connections we all rely on. Max shared more about his daily work on the engineering team. This deeper dive gave students a stronger grasp of fiber optics and how critical they are to building fast, reliable internet connections. The class was full of curiosity, asking Max questions and showing real interest in how the internet is built from the ground up.
Construction, Installation and Maintenance
Outside, students gathered around some of our heavy-duty equipment and learned how it’s used to dig trenches where fiber lines are securely buried underground. While the machines weren’t in action, the group got a closer look at the tools and planning involved in laying the foundation for Volcano’s reliable service. Special thanks to Tim Adams and Aaron Luxemburg from our construction crew, who helped showcase the equipment and answered student questions.
Back indoors, students rotated in groups through different stations in our tech center. Kenny Keeley, representing our Installation & Repair department, gave students a look into how Volcano technicians install and troubleshoot services in homes and businesses. Kenny’s approach helped students better understand the real-world application of what they were learning.
New Age of TV Delivery
Romel Chand, from our TV network department, explained how Volcano delivers TV through a broadband connection instead of traditional satellite. With SpongeBob SquarePants streaming in the background, he showed how customers can now enjoy their favorite shows through their internet connection. Romel’s presentation struck the perfect balance of fun and informative.
Where it all begins – Engineering
David Sachs, our outside plant engineering manager, offered a field-level view of how fiber installation projects come together. From assessing new builds to overseeing crews, David gave students insight into the planning that powers our service network. They also got to see field equipment like fiber boxes and modules used in various projects
How does your home get services? In our Business Office, students observed how customers sign up for service and how support is handled day-to-day. They also got a quick overview of our marketing department, where we shared how we communicate the value of our services to homes and businesses across Amador County.
This incredible experience was made possible thanks to the thoughtful planning of Frank Leschinsky, our Public Sector Manager. Frank, who works with city, county, and state leaders to expand broadband access throughout the region, ensured every detail of the day ran smoothly.
Throughout the tour, students asked insightful questions, showed genuine curiosity, and engaged with every stop along the way. They left with a better understanding of the technology behind the services they use every day, and maybe even a few ideas for future careers.
We had a blast hosting Mrs. Reeder’s class and are already looking forward to welcoming next year’s group. At Volcano Communications Group, we’re proud to share our work with the next generation and help inspire their journey into the world of tech and innovation.