AT&T has invested nearly $5 billion dollars in the state of Georgia over the last three years, and over $26 million in Macon alone during that time. These funds have helped enhance the AT&T network and grow its fiber cable capabilities to meet the ever-increasing demand for wireless services. For example, in just the last six years, mobile data traffic has increased by 50,000% for AT&T, according to Terry Smith, Regional Director of External Affairs for middle Georgia.  A middle Georgia native, Smith covers Macon to Columbus, Dublin to LaGrange and Warner Robins. With 40+ years in the industry and 16 years as Regional Director, Smith has seen that rapid growth firsthand and is helping spread the word about network advancements, such as the 2013 launch and recent expansion of 4G LTE in the middle Georgia region.    

But AT&T provides more than just dollars to Georgia’s economy with initiatives like the It Can Wait Campaign (which aims to halt texting while driving), AT&T Foundation education grants, United Way support and volunteerism, as well as active involvement with a number of chambers of commerce and other community initiatives.  Smith represents AT&T in the community by partnering with Middle Georgia State College, Communities in Schools of Central Georgia Champions Council, the Macon Chamber of Commerce, Macon Rotary, and the Museum of Aviation.  Other community efforts include AT&T’s recent contribution to Macon’s Habitat for Humanity Priceless Gifts Campaign.  In fact, AT&T’s overall philanthropic giving in Georgia from 2010 to 2012 was nearly 24 million dollars and 300,000 volunteer hours. 

AT&T also works closely with veterans and students.  “We have a specific program in place to help hire veterans and their spouses,” Smith explains. “Our company recognizes the sacrifice made by veterans and their families, so we have committed to hire 10,000 veterans/veterans spouses across the U.S.”  In terms of students, “We also had nearly 8,500 students in Georgia job shadow Georgia AT&T employees between 2008 and 2012,” says Smith. 

To stay at the top of their highly competitive industry, AT&T has had to evolve aggressively in their 135-year history to remain an innovative service provider. “I think the last 10 years have seen more change than the first 125 years,” Smith says.  “We have always been on the leading edge. Our customers know our name and they expect the services they get to be of high quality and integrity.”

Smith also notes he feels fortunate AT&T has such forward-thinking leadership, which makes it an exciting, rewarding company for its employees. Smith explains, “I’m an ambassador for AT&T and enjoy messaging the initiatives and strategy in the communities I serve. I interface with the community at all levels, from volunteer organizations to elected officials, businesses, chambers, and residents. I also represent the community back to our company and keep my finger on the pulse of the community and share what I’m hearing from folks with our leadership.”