Nick Steward
Welcome to My Site
About
My Background
Nicholus Steward is a problem solver who has used his persistence and tenacity to get results in the military, the business world, and in the nonprofit sector. Passionate about helping others reach their potential, he focuses on providing access to the internet, technology, and education to people around the world.
As a 3rd generation Veteran of the US Military, Nick is wired to build teams and accomplish missions. He has been to nearly 30 countries and lived outside of the United States for 15 years. His global perspective gives him a well rounded understanding of the telecommunications challenges that are faced by the majority of the world. Nick has built networks in rural America as well as in southern Africa. From planning network topologies, negotiating leases and making financial projections; to terminating ethernet cables, configuring routers and climbing cell phone towers, Nick takes an active hands on approach to all of the projects he is involved in. A unique combination of life lessons, education, and work experience have given Nick a unique outlook on life and creative approach to those he serves.
Nicholus received a Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Management and Operations from Liberty University. He also holds an Associates degree in Computer Science from the College of Southern Maryland and a Bachelor's degree in Network and System Administration/Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Check out my FREE "Nick's Travel Tips" brochure to get some of the tips and tricks that I use when moving around the world!
My Experience
Background & Expertise
Senior Project Manager,
Vernonburg Group
Dec 2023 - Current
As a Project Manager at the Vernonburg Group I’m channeling my passion for digital inclusion into tangible global initiatives. In this dynamic role, I'm tasked with managing large-scale internet connectivity projects, both domestically and internationally, that aim to bridge the digital divide.
My responsibilities include overseeing comprehensive feasibility studies and pilot projects, ensuring these multifaceted endeavors stay on track despite their complexity and geographical spread. I'm excited to delve into report writing, editing, and preparing project planning documents utilizing tools like Excel and PowerPoint. A significant part of my role involves data analysis and visualization, providing insights into broadband availability and adoption through engaging maps and charts. My role also includes performing technical reviews, overseeing grant fund compliance, and collaborating with state broadband offices.
Business development manager,
Open Broadband LLC
April 2021 - Dec 2023
I am responsible for managing/developing critical business partnerships, generating new sales leads, negotiating client pricing, and forecast sales revenue, all to support helping Open Broadband in maximizing profits while meeting our mission to provide internet service to underserved communities. I work to land large projects and turn them over to our local teams for implementation.
In this roll I am able to leverage my previous life and work experience to develop creative solutions for our current and future customers. My focus is across the entire Open Broadband footprint, and includes expansion into new markets as well. In addition to managing our telemedicine efforts, I also formed and oversee our Indigenous Communities Broadband Initiative.
Skills gained, developed, or strengthened:
Fixed Wireless · Business Planning · Written Communication · Presentations · Stakeholder Management · Presentation Skills · Telecommunications · Market Analysis · Technology Implementation · Account Management · Sales Management · Priority Management · Communication · Strategic Thinking · New Business Opportunities · Interpersonal Skills · Sales · IT Strategy · Risk Management · Vendor Management · Marketing · Project Management · Business Strategy · Public Relations · Business Development · Logistics Management · Digital Marketing · Customer Relationship Management (CRM) · Critical Thinking · Leadership · Local Area Network (LAN) · Business Analysis
Co-Founder and Director, Swazi Bridge Project
June 2015 - June 2022
Currently working on the development of a telecommunications network to provide increased connectivity and digital inclusion to the Swazi people.
Skills gained, developed, or strengthened:
Project planning and management
International logistics
Personnel management
International relations
International business development consulting
Cell phone tower climbing
LAN and WAN network management
Non government organization management
Coalition building
Partner and Tech Guy, CP Local Events
January 2018- April 2023
I act as the architect of CP Local Events. Logos, graphics, web design, marketing planning and implementation, as well as the strategic planning of the events themselves. My business partner Chris manages vendors, securing sponsors, and the logistics of our events.
Contributor, African Tech Round-Up
October 2016 - May 2020
I provide insights on technology developments in the United States which have an impact on the Continent of Africa.
Skills gained, developed, or strengthened:
Audio editing
Video editing
Podcasting
Conversational interviewing
Education
What I’ve Learned
BS, University of Maryland University College
2015 - 2018
Network and System Administration/Administrator, UMUC Computing Club
AS, College of Southern Maryland
2015 - 2018
Computer Science
BS, Liberty University
2003 - 2005
Business Administration, Management and Operations
Roanoke Bible College
2002 - 2003
Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology
What I Do
My Skills
Home Cook
Fun in the kitchen
"There are two equalizers in life - the Internet & education."
-John Chambers, Former Cisco CEO
