Driving Success in Tech Innovation
Hello, I’m Sophia Zimmermann, your go-to Technical Program Manager committed to leading the charge in innovation, turning ambitious ideas into reality. My focus is on bridging the gap between big-picture thinking and detailed execution to bring tech solutions across the finish line.
Message me on LinkedIn if I can help your team to drive success in your tech projects.
Charting the Course of 5G Innovation
At Nokia Bell Labs, I stepped into the role of 5G Customer Technical Program Manager during a pivotal time when 5G technology was still a concept. The challenge was not just to navigate this uncharted territory but also to present our advancements in a way that would solidify our leadership in the market.
I directed a high-performance, cross-functional team and technology showcase that would align with Verizon’s inaugural 5G press release.
This entailed establishing a detailed program structure for the 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) and pilot programs, including defining roles, managing risks, and developing an exhaustive action plan. A meticulous program budget was developed, accounting for all facets of the hardware and personnel resources, amounting to $12 million.
The fruits of our labor were not just seen but felt across the industry as we supported Verizon with the world’s first 5G NR mobility call, a milestone in 5G history. Our strategic and calculated approach to program execution and stakeholder communication was instrumental in this achievement, helping to position both Nokia and Verizon at the forefront of the 5G revolution.
Driving Development and Testing at the Frontier of Technology
In the fast-paced world of telecoms, staying ahead means constantly innovating. As a 5G System Program Manager, I was tasked with propelling the development and testing of cutting-edge solutions under the esteemed banner of Nokia Bell Labs Innovation (Window Mount CPE).
My approach was rooted in rigorous resource allocation and effective communication, ensuring every team member was aligned with our mission and milestones.
This strategy led to the creation of a prototype 5G modem that addressed one of the most significant challenges of the time: transmitting 28 GHz signals through UV-blocking windows. This success was not just a technical breakthrough but also a testament to our team’s ability to solve real-world problems through innovation and collaboration. Verizon successfully showcased the prototype at the Mobile World Congress America.
Strategic Execution in Complex Environments
At Casa Systems, Inc., my role transcended traditional boundaries as I led strategic initiatives to deliver end-to-end solutions for cloud-native 4G/5G core private networks. With a focused eye on the future:
The challenge was to build a solution that not only met the current technological standards but was also agile enough to adapt to the fast-paced evolution of the telecom industry.
By leading a team that bridged gaps with Verizon planners and aligning with third-party partners like REDHAT, HP, and Wind River, I managed to synchronize disparate efforts into a cohesive strategy.
My leadership resulted in the successful delivery of a cutting-edge solution in Verizon’s Basking Ridge lab, setting the stage for maintenance engineering production labs, and further enhancing our capabilities in cloud solutions.
Delivering Mission-Critical Solutions
Public safety is a domain where technology can have a profound impact. The task at hand was to deliver a public safety network slicing use case that was both reliable and innovative.
I spearheaded a team to deliver an end-to-end 4G/5G NSA/SA (Non-Standalone/Standalone) solution with mmW radio to Verizon’s executive briefing center. Collaborating with marketing, we developed a storyline that not only communicated the technical capabilities but also resonated with enterprise customers’ core needs.
The successful delivery of this project at Verizon’s executive briefing center in Ashburn, VA, not only showcased our commitment to public safety but also cemented our standing as leaders in the space.
Pioneering Mobile Edge Computing
The challenge of deploying Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) solutions in diverse Verizon markets stood before us, demanding a nuanced approach to field trials and implementation.
My leadership involved meticulous planning and execution across multiple markets, ensuring that every detail was accounted for from Plant City, FL to Detroit, MI.
This meticulous planning led to successful field trials and set the stage for broader deployments, showcasing our agility and expertise in MEC.
Maximizing Value in High-Stakes Projects
Managing multi-million dollar contracts and complex projects, like the Femto Core for Verizon, required an astute understanding of technical and commercial nuances.
I redefined our feature commitment and release process, negotiating and managing contracts worth over $10 million, and leading RFP responses with precision and insight.
These efforts not only led to successful commercial launches but also streamlined our processes, enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional value to our clients.
Engineering Leadership Across Functions and Teams
Before becoming a customer program manager, I managed the LTE Small Cells 4G releases to oversee CDMA engineering requirements and features, I have consistently led large global teams to meet and exceed our project goals.
My focus has always been on fostering clear communication, preemptively allocating resources, discussing issues, and executing strategic planning to ensure a successful product launch.
A Communicator at Heart
Communication is the lifeline of any successful project, and my ability to define requirements and translate business insights into actionable strategies has been a cornerstone of my career.
Join the Journey
My blog reflects my professional experience and platform to share insights on the practical applications of AI and technology trends. Message me on LinkedIn if I can help your team to drive success in your tech projects. Let’s chat.