The Real 5G Advantage Hiding in the Network You Already Have
As 5G buildouts begin to level off, operators are re-examining how to create lasting value from the networks they already have. The next phase of leadership in connectivity will be defined not by expansion, but by how intelligently we optimize - extracting more performance, efficiency, and resilience from existing assets.
This session brings together industry experts to explore emerging frameworks, data-driven insights, and operational models that are reshaping how operators think about network optimization. Discover how innovation in automation, analytics, and design thinking is helping organizations unlock hidden capacity, strengthen reliability, and elevate customer experience - without costly infrastructure overhauls.
You’ll learn about:
- Strategic perspectives on building long-term value through smarter network optimization
- Approaches to balancing performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency
- Lessons from real-world operator initiatives driving measurable transformation
SPEAKERS:
Erez Aviv, VP Products, Ceragon Networks
Erez Aviv is a seasoned telecommunications leader with over two decades of experience shaping product strategy, network innovation, and customer success. As Vice President of Product Management at Ceragon Networks, he guides the vision and development of advanced wireless transport solutions, shaping products that meet the evolving demands of operators. With a unique blend of technical depth and business insight, Erez is recognized for turning complex challenges into scalable solutions that drive connectivity and customer value worldwide. His background spans product development, business growth, and hands-on technical support, giving him a 360-degree view of the customer journey - from design and deployment to adoption and expansion. Erez brings not only deep technical knowledge but also a sharp understanding of market dynamics.
Mitch Wagner, Chief Analyst, AI, Cloud and Data Center Technologies, Fierce Network
Mitch Wagner is Chief Analyst, AI, Cloud and Data Center Technologies, for Fierce Network Research. Wagner has been covering enterprise and telco technology for more than 30 years, including leadership positions at Light Reading and InformationWeek. He has also helped drive content marketing in a full-time position at Oracle and as a consultant for business-to-business technology companies for the data center, cloud platform, networking and security spaces. He lives in San Diego with his wife and too many pets.
Ryan Hollinger, Sr. Director Systems Architecture, T-Mobile
Ryan Hollinger is the Senior Director of IP and Security Engineering at T-Mobile, where he leads the architecture and design of the company’s IP and network security infrastructure. His organization is responsible for ensuring the reliability, scalability, and protection of T-Mobile’s nationwide networks - spanning cellular backhaul, core network, and the employee-facing environments.
