When Dave Zacher reflects on his work, he often returns to one moment: a remote community gaining reliable connectivity for the first time. Before the project, residents had no consistent wireless service, no 911 access, and limited opportunities for education or business. When the tower finally went live, the difference was immediate, families could reach emergency services, students could learn online, and local businesses could participate in a broader economy.

“It reminded me why this work matters,” Dave says. “Seeing that kind of practical impact sticks with you.” For him, telecom has always been about more than infrastructure—it’s about improving everyday life in ways that genuinely matter.

A Career Built on Curiosity and Adaptability: From Energy to Telecom

Dave’s transition into telecom wasn’t planned. It began during a downturn in the energy sector when he volunteered for any work that would keep him learning and contributing. “I said to my manager, ‘Put me in, coach!’” Dave laughs. That openness led to new challenges and sparked the curiosity that now shapes his leadership approach. He quickly recognized how meaningful connectivity was for communities, and that sense of purpose pulled him deeper into the industry.

Growth Starts with Listening

Managing projects coast to coast taught Dave an important truth: every community is unique. “Success depends on understanding local perspectives and tailoring solutions,” he says. His team shares lessons learned across regions, so clients gain the benefit of national experience without losing local context. “Our clients value that insight,” Dave adds. “It’s what contributes to our differentiation.”

Why Trust Is Non-Negotiable

Dave’s leadership philosophy is simple: hire the right people, trust them, and support them. “If you don’t, you stunt growth,” he says. For him, trust starts with clarity—clear roles, accountabilities, and goals. “Strong teams are built on trust, communication and knowing what success looks like.”

Empowerment means removing barriers. “You can’t grow if you’re in the weeds making every decision,” Dave explains. “Give people the right tools and guidance, then let them run with it.”

Technology as a Leadership Enabler

Technology isn’t just a tool—it’s a leadership enabler. “Data and GIS have raised the bar on accuracy exponentially,” Dave says. His team uses GIS to identify tower sites, design lease areas, and plan access routes. For Dave, it’s about giving his team the right tools to make confident decisions and deliver for clients.

Leading with Curiosity and Forward Thinking

Curiosity drives Dave’s approach. “Leaders need to be nimble, flexible, and always thinking ahead,” he says. That mindset helps him anticipate challenges, embrace innovation, and create space for his team to grow.

His advice for aspiring leaders? “Trust your team. Support them when things don’t go as planned. Be curious and forward-looking.”

Building People, Not Just Projects

Dave measures success not just in projects delivered but in people developed. “I’ve built my toolbox over the years—and shared it,” he says. Some of his proudest moments come from seeing former team members thriving in new roles—six of whom are now clients. “That’s something I’m proud of.”

Dave’s Leadership Lessons

• Empower through trust. Hire the right people, trust them, and remove barriers.

• Clarity builds confidence. Clear roles, accountabilities, and goals create alignment.

• Adapt to context. Every community is different—listen and tailor solutions.

• Leverage technology. GIS and data are essential for accuracy and efficiency.

• Stay curious. Forward thinking keeps teams agile and solutions relevant.