Upgrading Philadelphia’s wireless network for over 20 years: Interview with John Cureton, co-founder of UHP Wireless Networks
In celebration of Black History Month, Pennovation Works would like to shine a spotlight on UHP Wireless Networks and recognize the contributions they’re making to help Philadelphia reach its technology goals. We recently sat down with John Cureton, co-founder of Urban Harvest Partnership (UHP Wireless Networks). As part of his role, John focuses primarily on program management for delivering wireless technologies. Learn more about UHP Wireless Networks in the interview below.
Tell us about what your company does. What was the reason for starting the company?
UHP Wireless Networks has grown with the wireless industry since 2003. We deploy technology to improve cellular coverage inside of commercial office/industrial space, increase capacity of enterprise WIFI networks and collect data with network devices such as cameras and building sensors.
What’s the most rewarding part about what you do at UHP Wireless Networks?
People expect fast wireless connectivity everywhere and we get to be a part of that. We see the industry grow every year. Employers are having to upgrade their environments so that employees don’t tell them that the WIFI is faster at home. Shoppers are choosing specific coffee shops or hotels because they have more reliable wireless coverage than the others in the area. If anyone doubts the necessity of wireless, just cut it off for 10 minutes and see how many calls go to the helpdesk!
What does innovation mean to you?
Innovation not only means a better way of doing things, but it means you and I are actually using the solution.
What excites you most about the future of smart buildings?
We’re excited that building developers want to talk to us about smart buildings before the architectural drawings are completed. It used to be an afterthought for the leasing customer’s IT team to figure out during tenant fit out. Now connected smart buildings are discussed early along with the base building infrastructure. Fiber optics, conduit pathways, wireless frequencies, network ports and more are a part of the capital budget.
Do you have any tips for early stage companies or founders who are just getting started?
“Nothing happens until something is sold.” – this quote is attributed to Henry Ford and was repeated by many sales managers I worked for in my early years of technology. As an entrepreneur, we can latch on to the modern-day grit and grind lifestyle founders are known for, but if no one at the company is focused on selling, then things will come to an end. Sell something every day, week, month, hour, or year – whatever formula brings in the cash to make your business profitable.
Congratulations on being awarded a city contract! Can you tell us more about it and what you’ll be doing? What is the impact this project will have on our community?
In 2023 and 2024, we’re pleased to be a part of technology upgrades at the 30th Street Station Renovation Project as well as security cameras for the Parks and Recreation REBUILD project. In 2019, we worked with the Philadelphia Water Department as they implemented automated meter reading. Way back in 2006, we worked with Earthlink for the Wireless Philadelphia project. All of these projects allowed us to use our core capabilities towards the city’s technology goals. The renovations at 30th Street Station will continue to make the city attractive for tourism including the upcoming World Cup event. The investment the city for the REBUILD project is making our recreation centers a fun, healthy, and safe environment for youth and families.
What is an interesting fact that most people don’t know about you?
I coached youth robotics for seven years and in 2020 was blessed to coach the Vex Robotics Middle School Pennsylvania State Champions. I love what organizations such as First Robotics and Vex Robotics offer to our youth these days. They’ve always had computer programming at their core and have expanded with related tech such as AutoCAD and drone racing. I’m a tech geek who would have loved to do those things as a youth. (BTW - I’m looking forward to Maker Faire Philadelphia!)
