Mitch Drake

Broadband Executive Engagement Leader
Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc.

Mitch Drake is a 40-year telecom industry veteran. As the broadband executive engagement leader at Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc., Mitch works with the sales team to win network services business, then serves as the primary point of contact with new customers. Mitch’s long experience in network design, construction, operation, and management has given him insights that help minimize project risk, deliver desired outcomes, and build strong relationships.

During the bulk of Mitch’s career, he has been responsible for the construction and management of telecommunications networks across multiple states. As an executive, he has managed operating and capital budgets supporting large capital projects with a team of more than 350 employees. Recently, Mitch was CEO and chief architect for Golden Bear Broadband. Previously, he led teams that designed, engineered, and built a start-up nationwide long distance network, negotiated and managed statewide fiber optic long-haul distribution projects in upstate New York and Northern California, and led two American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) projects.

Mitch has served on the United States Telecommunications Association (USTA) Technical Management Committee and the USTelecom Leadership Committee. He chaired the boards of CalCom, the California state telephone association, and the Central Valley Independent Network (now Vast), which won a $66 million ARRA grant. Mitch leads an active life away from the job, having served on nonprofit boards and as president of a local Rotary Club.