Winegard has announced the addition of key personnel to drive its future endeavors in technology related to the “Internet of Things” and 5G.
“We were pioneers in 1953 with the invention of the multi-channel TV antenna and we have never stopped innovating,” said Grant Whipple, president and COO for Winegard. “We have strategically shifted the company over the last five years to focus on future technology such as WiFi, 5G and IoT technology in all we design and build.”
Lance Beck joins as director of product development for the Internet of Things (IoT) division. Beck brings a proven track record of success from the industrial monitoring and smart home connectivity markets. He also brings extensive application experience with various control system inputs including remote app control and AI voice recognition.
Marvin Metzler joins as the senior director of business development for the mobile division. He will lead the team housed in Elkhart, Ind.’s Innovation Center. Metzler has an extensive background in the RV, automotive, power sports and marine industries, and is well-versed in product development (he holds six patents) and distribution. As former president and CEO of Mito Corp., he is well-versed in creating strategies for growing companies.
James Witty joins as new business development director for the RV OEM division. A veteran of the RV industry, Witty has held positions at the RV Factory and Nexus RV. In a few short months, Witty has expanded Winegard’s footprint among key manufacturers.
Shelby DeWulf joins the Winegard team as the director of corporate marketing to advance the company as a leader in connectivity. Her background in the technology and manufacturing industries gives her a strong understanding of IoT, Wi-Fi and cellular technologies and how consumers can benefit from high-performance connectivity.
Chris Panelli and Steven Zonker both join Winegard in Elkhart as RV OEM account managers. Each work directly with OEMs to help accessorize RVs with attractive satellite, OTA and connectivity options that consumers want while RVing. Panelli has extensive RV manufacturer knowledge because of his experience working for Keystone, Nexus and Forest River. Zonker has his finger on the pulse of RV consumers across the U.S. He has worked in the RV industry for several years, most recently as the national sales manager at The RV Factory.
