HomeMeet the Candidates

Meet the Candidates

Below you will find all individuals running for election to the Board of Directors of the Radio Club of America. Review the information provided to make an educated vote.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Nick Pennance - M2016 - Incumbent

Biography:

Originally from England, I hold a BEng (Hons) in Communications Engineering from the University of Plymouth. My career began at Bell Northern Research (later Nortel Networks), developing embedded software for optical networks. I later joined Tait Communications in New Zealand, leading the design of P25 subscriber equipment before moving to the U.S. in 2010 to focus on P25 sales, certifications, and compliance.

I have held senior leadership roles at Icom and Tait, including Vice President of Engineering, President of Tait Americas, and Chief Revenue Officer, where I led global sales, engineering, and customer success teams. Currently, I am Vice President of Engineering at Eastern Communications, driving innovation and delivering mission-critical solutions for public safety and enterprise customers.

In addition to my professional role, I am honored to serve as Executive Vice President of the Radio Club of America and as a board member of the Enterprise Wireless Alliance (EWA). I also hold an Extra Class Amateur Radio license.

Position Statement:

I am committed to strengthening RCA’s role as the premier organization for wireless professionals by promoting education, fostering innovation, and expanding opportunities for the next generation of leaders in our industry.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR VICE PRESIDENT

Richard P. Biby, N3UW - M1994, F2000 - Incumbent
photo of Richard Biby

Biography:

Richard P. Biby, F, (N3UW) is the principal of Two-Hops Wireless, LLC in Leesburg, VA. Rich is a registered Professional engineer in VA and previously in many other states. Rich has a BS in Electrical Engineer and a MS in Telecommunications and Computers from George Washington University in Washington DC. He also holds an MBA from William and Marry in Williamsburg, VA. He started his career in communications via the broadcast regulatory industry. Rich specialized in database management, propagation analysis and modeling, developed commercial propagations software (“RF-CAD”), based on field collected and verified measurement data. In the 1990s, he specialized in the non-ionizing radiation safety industry, creating Sitesafe, which was acquired by Crown Castle International (“CCI”) in 2000. He later served as the CTO of CCI. He built many cellular towers with partners in Northern Virginia. He founded Waterford Consultants, and later started Two-Hops Wireless. He is the executive director of the Biby Foundation for Rural Broadband, the former CEO and publisher of AGL (Above Ground Level) magazine, and the CEO and Publisher of AGL Information & Technology. He is an RCA fellow, previous chairman of the scholarship committed and an editor of the proceedings and newsletter. He is also a Senior Member of the IEEE.

Position Statement:

If elected I will work diligently to keep RCA, the premier wireless professional and technical association. I learned of RCA at a young age (12 if I remember) through my father, an innovative RF engineer in the 1970s and beyond. I am honored to have served the club, it’s membership and legacy. I have also had the pleasure of working on various IEEE, TIA and other standards organizations, worked with PICA and closely with other trade organizations, including National Association of Tower Erectors. I believe deeply in developing the next generation of industry pioneers. I’ve had the fortune of meeting industry leaders, pioneers, and entreasures (largely through RCA). Learn from the past, drive to the future. This club serves as an instrumental conduit between the generations in our mutual science, community, and history. And yes, futurists.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR VICE-PRESIDENT/COUNSEL

Chester "Barney" Scholl Jr., K3LA M2016 - Incumbent

Biography:
Chester B. Scholl, Jr. (M 2016) graduated from the University of Miami BSSA and Dickinson School of Law JD, 1974. He is a partner in the law firm of Fruit, Dill, Goodwin and Scholl. He held a First Class Radio Telephone license, holds an Extra class amateur radio license, and has been licensed since 1963. He is a life member of ARRL, helps other amateurs with zoning and other related legal issues in his role as Volunteer Counsel through the ARRL as well as clients in his legal practice, and is a Volunteer Examiner for amateur radio testing. He teaches Amateur Radio and law classes and has presented at and moderated the Legal Forum at the Xenia Ohio Hamvention. He helped his local Emergency Services Council plan for a county radio system. He has been solicitor, board member and officer for a number of charitable organizations. He has represented a local cellular carrier in land acquisition and general matters and landowners in tower transactions and leases. He is a member of the City of Hermitage Planning Commission and has been solicitor for Township and Zoning Hearing Boards. He is a Trustee and past president of Mercer County Bar Association. He has been admitted to practice before Pennsylvania courts and the U. S. Supreme Court and Federal District Courts.

Position Statement:

I am running again for election as Vice President /Counsel for the Radio Club of America (RCA). Even though I have been involved in wireless most of my life and have heard of the Radio Club of America for years I had never joined. When the opportunity arose to get involved, I felt that I could add expertise based on my legal profession and knowledge of wireless. After I was elected in a special election in 2016 as Vice President/Counsel, I have since been re-elected. Since becoming an officer, I have started to learn the extent of the Club's members and activities. I look forward to continuing as an Officer to be able to contribute to the growth of the Club's activities both as counsel and with my experience in charitable organizations, both in the role as counsel and committees and hope to earn your vote in the coming election for Vice President/Counsel.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR VICE-PRESIDENT / CO-COUNSEL

Edward Ryan, KB2L, M2016 Incumbent

Biography:
Ed Ryan is a patent attorney and an amateur radio operator. Ed joined the RCA in 2016, with the twin goals of networking and staying current with developments in the wireless industry. Ed’s professional work has dealt with electronics, semiconductors, and wired and wireless network technologies, as well as trademarks and other intellectual property matters. His patent work includes patent applications for phased array antenna systems and mmWave transmission technologies. Other legal work has included prosecuting trademark applications, as well as intellectual property litigation in various forums.

Ed has a B.S. in Physics from Carnegie Mellon University (2005) and a J.D. from Fordham University School of Law (2008), and has been registered as a patent attorney since 2009. His experience with volunteer-run organizations spans two decades, including social organizations and a local civic organization.

Position Statement:

This year I have helped safeguard RCA’s intellectual property, by filing a trademark application for our new name and logo and by defeating a trademark application by American Radio Club, causing them to change their name. I hope to continue to strengthen RCA’s intellectual property and legal position and to support the board with counsel as legal matters arise.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR TREASURER

Andrew Maxymillian - M2004, F2016

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to continue serving on the Board of Directors for the Radio Club of America. RCA is one of the most prestigious organizations in our industry and it is my privilege to have the ability to serve and give back to the organization.

Having reviewed the by-laws, I understand the responsibilities of this position, and I consider myself fully capable and experienced to perform the required tasks. My past experiences include board positions on other organizations, including the Project Management Institute (PMI), where I eventually rose to the position of IT & Telecommunications Board Chair. Also, my experience gained from owning and managing a company will prove to be invaluable in my tenure as Board Director.

My combined knowledge of the radio industry, along with my experience in serving as Vice Treasurer are the perfect combination for this position. I want to thank the RCA Board for the chance to be considered, and I hope to receive your vote.

CANDIDATE(S) FOR SECRETARY

Precious Fodor M2025ws

Precious Fodor Biography

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Cornell University, where I also commissioned as a U.S. Navy Officer through the NROTC Program.
I have held multiple leadership positions through several overseas deployments in my time as a U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer. On my first ship, I led over 105 technicians, electricians, and engineers in maintaining and operating ship-wide communications, radar, and electrical power systems. On my second ship, I directly oversaw 200 Sailors responsible for quality assurance, repair management, navigation, and administrative programs—ensuring operational readiness and safety across all departments. I continue to proudly serve in the U.S. Navy Reserves, where I help prepare U.S. Naval forces for deployment readiness, integrated fleet operations, and combat certification exercises.
Currently, I serve as the National Service Manager at Eastern Communications Ltd., where I oversee a nationwide network of service centers supporting mission-critical Land Mobile Radio (LMR) systems for public safety and government agencies. From my military experience and time at Eastern Communications, I’ve developed a deep passion for the radio and communications industry and its role in protecting and connecting communities.
I’ve been involved with the FIRST Robotics Alumni Association, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), IEEE, the Surface Navy Association, and the New York Veterans Association, where I’ve guided young students in exploring STEM through hands-on learning, mentored young women pursuing careers in engineering and military service, and supported initiatives that strengthen veteran communities.

Precious Fodor Position Statement
I believe deeply in collaboration, service, and innovation—values that align closely with the mission of the Radio Club of America. My goal is to continue supporting the advancement of wireless communications while mentoring and inspiring the next generation of professionals who will carry this field forward.
From my experiences, I’ve developed a passion for the radio and communications industry and its role in protecting and connecting communities. My career has taken me from serving as a U.S. Navy Officer to my current role as National Service Manager at Eastern Communications Ltd., where I help lead teams supporting mission-critical radio systems for public safety and government agencies. I have seen firsthand how vital reliable communication is to every mission — and how collaboration and leadership make it possible.
Within RCA, I am a member of Women in Wireless and would love the opportunity to contribute even more by supporting other committees and initiatives that strengthen our community. Beyond RCA, I’ve been involved with the FIRST Robotics Alumni Association, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), IEEE, the Surface Navy Association, and the New York Veterans Association— helping high school students explore STEM, mentoring young women pursuing engineering and military careers, and supporting veteran leadership initiatives.
If elected, I’ll bring that same dedication, organization, and collaborative spirit to the Secretary role — helping maintain clear communication, strengthen engagement, and ensure RCA continues to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators in wireless communications.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR

Jon Paul Beauchamp, M2016 F2023

I intend to continue to champion RCA as an industry networking organization. i believe that we need to champion new comers in the wireless industry, coach and mentor them to be thought leaders. We must grow and expand our members to exceed Amateur radio.

Jack Burbank, M2023

BIOGRAPHY
Jack L. Burbank (jack.burbank@ieee.org) is the Vice President of Advanced Communications at Sabre Systems, where he helps design, develop, and evaluate next-generation wireless capabilities.

Prior to joining Sabre, Mr. Burbank spent 19 years at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL), where among other roles, he served as the assistant supervisor of the Tactical Wireless Communications Group, the Chief Scientist of the Strategic Communications Group, and was a member of the Principal Professional Staff. During his time at JHU/APL, Mr. Burbank led technical teams that designed and developed many novel wireless communications capabilities and technologies for the US Government.

Mr. Burbank is an expert in the areas of wireless networking, modeling and simulation, wireless system development, and wireless network security. Mr. Burbank has published over 50 technical papers on topics of wireless networking and contributed to multiple books related to wireless networking. Mr. Burbank has authored books on the subjects of Wireless Networking and Modeling and Simulation. Mr. Burbank has participated in both the IEEE 802 and IETF standards communities. Mr. Burbank was co-author of RFC 5905, the Network Time Protocol (Version 4) specification, which is in widespread global use in most computer systems, smartphones, and other consumer electronics.

Mr. Burbank previously taught courses on networking and wireless networking within The Johns Hopkins University Engineering for Professionals Program and is a senior member of the IEEE. Mr. Burbank is designated as an IEEE Impact Creator and is also Vice Chair of the IEEE Susquehanna Section. Mr. Burbank earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University and is currently working towards his PhD in Electrical Engineering at the University of North Dakota, with his dissertation research on the topic of GPS security and navigation in GPS-denied environments.

POSITION STATEMENT

While I have dedicated my entire career to the advancement of wireless communications, I am relatively new to the Radio Club of America (RCA), having joined in 2023 at the invitation of Dr. James Breakall. I was asked if I would be interested in serving on the Board and I quickly responded yes. In my short time in the organization, I have grown to enjoy and value the RCA and what it can offer to its membership. I believe the RCA is a great organization that has even greater potential. I would like to help RCA continue its status as a great organization and do what I can to help it achieve even greater status. I would like to participate in executive activities that can help advance and improve the RCA, such as membership-related, fund raising, marketing, and technical activity planning (e.g., symposiums).

I have accomplished a lot in my career, and I am very proud of my accomplishments. I have held numerous leadership positions in my professional career. For example, I currently serve as the Vice President of Sabre Systems, a mid-size technology company. I have also held leadership positions in professional organizations, such as the IEEE where I currently serve as Vice Chair of the Susquehanna Section. But none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the relationships, mentorships, and professional friendships I have formed through technical organizations. My goal now is to give back to the community at large that has helped me so profoundly over the decades. My goal is to do everything I can to help my fellow colleagues in making the RCA a vibrant and active organization, where fellow members can forge the same type of relationships, mentorships, and professional friendships that have been so profoundly important to me. If elected to the Board, I will give my best effort to help to make RCA the best organization it can be.

Nathan "Chip" Cohen W1YW, M2012 F2017

My prior experience on the board speaks through championing RCA through challenging times. I find my best contributions are in keeping the technical and scientific face of RCA, an effort which I have shown countless times with the breadth and people I have brought to the membership in our technical symposia and banquets.

I thus wish to represent the RCA as a director to continue that effort.

Louis Fiore, M2007 F2019

I wish to be considered for membership on the the RCA Board. This would be my way to give back to a field that I love and has shaped my career. I feel I could also help the association advance its goals and objectives.

My passion for radio began in my early teens listening to distant AM stations after sunset. I joined the radio club in high school thinking there were likeminded people there. I walked into that room and was introduced to amateur radio. From that first moment I was hooked. To this day I have remained an active radio amateur.

I was first licensed as a Novice in 1958 and moved up to the Extra class. I received my First Class Radiotelephone license in 1960. While studying electrical engineering at Manhattan University, I worked nights as an engineer at WFUV at Fordham University. While I began my engineering career at CBS Labs, I moved to the burglar and fire alarm field in 1973. But I soon got back to wireless designing and marketing a 450 MHz system for alarm use at Cardinal Systems and then at Repco, Inc.

I have chaired the Alarm Industry Communications Committee (AICC) of The Monitoring Association (TMA) for 30 years. As chair of AICC I became part of the US mission to the ITU in Geneva, Switzerland to ensure that the WRC would not create regulations that could interfere with the alarm industry's use of the 450 MHz band. After I gave up the chairmanship of AICC, I was honored to have a yearly scholarship granted in my name. I am currently acting as an FCC coordinator for the 450 to 470 MHz business band on behalf of TMA.

I would be honored to be chosen as a Board member of RCA and to work in that position with other professionals, advocates, and leaders who share my passion. Louis T. Fiore

Cheryl Giggetts, M2014 F2023

I have 37 years of experience in management, and 33 years of experience in the Wireless Telecommunications Industry, specializing in Public Safety Communications and E-911 Services for local, state, and federal government.

After working over 15 years in national A&E practice and 10 years in global A&E practice, she founded CTA Consultants where she serves as Principal Consultant on city/county systems, multi-jurisdictional regional systems, and statewide systems across the United States.

I have a passion for supporting women in technology and hope to continue championing the RCA Women in Wireless program.

Ronald Jakubowski, K2RJ - M1987, F1993

As Treasurer and former member of the RCA Board of Directors, I have been proud to support and facilitate and will continue to promote more membership participation in club activities by suggesting other Banquet locations other than NYC, which has become prohibitively expensive. I will continue supporting Youth Activities as well as relationships with other organizations that have synergy with RCA. I will remain active on the Finance Committee.

Stephen Jeffries, M2023

Stephen Jeffries brings over 35 years of experience in Product Line Management, Systems Engineering, Product Development, and Production of Land Mobile Radio products and systems to the discussion. He currently serves as the Strategic Business Developer of the Radio Test PLM Team at VIAVI Solutions Inc.(Formerly IFR/Aeroflex Test & Measurement.) He is also on the Board of Directors for the Project 25 Technology Interest Group.

Prior to joining VIAVI Solutions Inc, Stephen spent 21 years at Motorola Solutions Inc, where he worked in subscriber product development as well as Presale and Post sale Field Systems Engineering.

Stephen has a background heavy in electronics engineering technologies, information technology, and project management.

Stephen is interested in paying forward to recruit, mentor and support the next generation of RCA members.

Amateur Radio Operator KA9ZRU since 1986

Rachel Jones, M2022

BIOGRAPHY

Rachel C. Jones is an interdisciplinary researcher and practitioner whose work integrates space cybersecurity, aerospace sciences, and radio communications. Holding multiple advanced degrees and certifications, Jones is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Sciences at the University of North Dakota (UND), leading research on CubeSat cybersecurity while earning certificates in College Teaching and Qualitative Inquiry.

With more than a decade of experience spanning higher education, STEM outreach, and applied research, Jones has mentored students through CyberPatriot, served as an ARISS Education Ambassador connecting classrooms with astronauts aboard the International Space Station, and contributed to innovative approaches that blend project-based learning with hands-on technology integration to prepare future aerospace and wireless professionals.

Jones’ industry and operational expertise include previously serving as a Principal Investigator at Savannah River National Laboratory for a space cybersecurity study, and leading research in Radio Frequency (RF) systems and operational technology security. Her fieldwork includes deployment to McMurdo Station in Antarctica as a Senior Communications Technician, where she maintained critical radio infrastructure for science operations and was recognized as the McMurdo All-Star (2025).

POSITION STATEMENT

I am humbled to be nominated for an RCA Board Position. RCA has played a tremendous role in my professional development. I look forward to giving back to the organization and helping to inspire the next generation of wireless innovators.

Ajay K. Poddar AC2KG, M2023

With a distinguished career spanning over 35 years, I have had the privilege of serving in various capacities within IEEE, particularly in leadership roles across numerous committees at both the technical and membership levels. My contributions extend across IEEE’s professional societies on a global scale, where I have held the position of Chair in multiple committees, driving initiatives that aim to enhance the reach and impact of IEEE’s mission.

Beyond my technical involvement, I am also deeply committed to humanitarian causes. I actively volunteer with the Red Cross, the Tsunami Relief Foundation, and various United Nations (UN)-backed initiatives worldwide. Through these organizations, I have been able to contribute to efforts aimed at disaster relief, community development, and international cooperation. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of technology and collaborative action to improve lives and build sustainable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In my professional career, I bring over 35 years of experience as a researcher and scientist, having worked in both small-scale research organizations (with fewer than 200 employees) and large institutions (with over 10,000 employees). Over the past three decades, I have successfully managed more than 200 projects across a diverse range of scientific and technical disciplines. As a program manager, I have honed my ability to oversee large-scale initiatives, guide multidisciplinary teams, and deliver results that drive innovation and contribute to the greater good of society.

One of the key lessons I have learned throughout my career—both in industry and in my volunteer work with IEEE and charitable organizations—is the importance of collaboration. I have been fortunate to work with teams that span both IEEE and non-IEEE entities, with a shared focus on advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. It is through such collaborations that we can tackle global challenges, such as climate change, by leveraging the collective expertise of professionals across industries.

In my recent role as a Board of Director for the Radio Club of America (RCA), I have strengthened the ties between RCA, IEEE, and IEEE-HKN, facilitating meaningful exchanges and collaborations. One of my proudest achievements has been successfully encouraging colleagues and peers to join RCA, which I believe is a valuable platform for fostering the exchange of knowledge and providing essential emergency communication services during times of crisis. RCA has also played a pivotal role in addressing urgent societal challenges, including global warming and climate change.

If elected for a second term, I am committed to engaging with young professionals (YPs) and motivating them to join the RCA Board of Directors, helping to cultivate a pipeline of future leaders in the field. I aim to further bridge the gap between professionals and industries, ensuring that RCA members—particularly young professionals—have access to networking opportunities and career development pathways. I have already actively supported the RCA technical symposium program, and I intend to continue contributing to the development of relevant topics and subject matter that align with the interests and career aspirations of students and young professionals.

Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the ongoing success of the RCA by strengthening its impact on both the professional community and society at large, particularly through the empowerment of the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators.