The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) extends its deepest gratitude to JR Wilson, Vice President, Towers, Roaming and In-Building commercial strategy, AT&T for his outstanding leadership and service as Chair of the WBA since 2012, as he concludes his journey at AT&T and, consequently, resigns from his role as Chairman and the WBA Board, effective at the end of July.

For more than a decade, JR has played a pivotal role in guiding the organization through a period of significant growth and technological advancement. 

Tiago Rodrigues, CEO of the WBA said, “During his tenure the WBA has championed the global adoption of Wi-Fi & Cellular convergence, the migration of our legal entity to the United States; the launch of World Wi-Fi Day and OpenRoaming; and most recently, the creation of our subsidiary to deliver AFC commercial services. We thank JR for his vision, dedication, and the lasting impact he has made on the WBA and the broader wireless ecosystem”.

Reflecting on his time with the WBA, JR Wilson, said, “This moment brings both a deep sense of pride and a genuine feeling of sadness. It has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life to help guide WBA through an extraordinary period of transformation and growth. Together, we have ensured the long-term sustainability of the organization and cemented its relevance within the wireless ecosystem — making a lasting mark on the global convergence agenda between wireless technologies and establishing WBA as a reference point for the entire industry. Today, WBA stands as a unique and globally respected industry voice — and I could not be prouder of what we have accomplished.” 

In accordance with WBA’s governance procedures, a new Chair will be elected at the next Board meeting. Until then, Dr. Derek Peterson, CTO of Boingo Wireless and current Co-Chair, will serve as Acting Chairman. Dr. Peterson, a highly experienced and well-known industry advocate, brings a wealth of experience and passion to this role. His deep expertise in wireless technologies, coupled with his commitment to global collaboration and innovation, ensures that the WBA will continue to thrive under his guidance.  

“JR Wilson is both a friend and a valued industry colleague, and it has been my pleasure to serve alongside him on the WBA Board and as Co-Chair,” said Dr. Peterson. “Boingo has long been a leader within the Wireless Broadband Alliance, helping pioneer key advancements like Passpoint in partnership with JR and WBA members. Together, we’re working to transform how businesses operate through converged connectivity—bringing seamless, secure cellular and Wi-Fi solutions to places like airports, stadiums and military bases. The WBA’s vision of an open, interoperable wireless ecosystem is a mission we share and are proud to help lead.”

We wish JR well in all his future endeavors and we look forward to once again working closely with him.