Derek Peterson named chairman as WBA steers Wi Fi convergence

The Wireless Broadband Alliance has confirmed the appointment of Dr. Derek Peterson, Chief Technology Officer at Boingo Wireless, as Chairman of its Board of Directors. Cameron Dunn, Assistant Vice President - In Building Solutions at AT&T, has been named Co-Chair. Both bring extensive experience to the roles, with responsibilities that include steering the alliance's strategy on Wi-Fi and cellular technology convergence.

Leadership changes

Dr. Peterson has previously served as Co-Chair and stepped in as Acting Chair from July 2025. He succeeds JR Wilson, who resigned his position following his departure from AT&T. Dr. Peterson's tenure at Boingo Wireless includes overseeing technical strategy and implementing wireless technologies such as 5G, Passpoint, CBRS private networks and Wi-Fi 7. The company currently operates wireless networks at over 130 airports and transport hubs, more than 70 sports and entertainment venues, upwards of 100 U.S. military bases, as well as healthcare facilities, hotels, and commercial properties.

Dunn brings over 25 years of experience in mobile telecommunications and team leadership. He is presently responsible for the investment strategy and technology planning for AT&T's in-building solutions across the United States.

Industry collaboration

"The role of wireless technologies has never been more important. The WBA's role over the last decade has been instrumental in the widespread adoption of seamless and secure Wi-Fi and the convergence between Wi-Fi and cellular technologies. I'm honored to be elected to Chairman and look forward to leading the board through the next era of connectivity and AI, as we continue to enable collaboration between service providers, technology companies, cities, regulators and enterprises," said Dr. Derek Peterson, Chairman, Wireless Broadband Alliance

The board includes representatives from operators, service providers, and technology vendors. Members participate in initiatives on NextGen Wi-Fi, OpenRoaming, 5G, 6G, as well as policy, interoperability, and real-world deployment projects. The WBA's membership features global industry names such as Cisco Systems, Intel, BT, Broadcom, Charter Communications and Reliance Jio.

Future directions

Dunn will support the chairman as Co-Chair. He will help guide the board through developments in wireless standards and the expanding requirements of business and consumer connectivity.

"It's an honor to serve as Co-Chair of the Wireless Broadband Alliance, especially in this exciting time of innovation and focus on the convergence of wireless technologies. Across the globe, seamless, secure, and converged connectivity is essential for businesses, communities, and individuals. I look forward to working alongside Dr. Peterson, the WBA board, and our industry partners to advance improvements and enhancement in next-generation wireless experiences everywhere connectivity is needed," said Dunn

Board commentary

The WBA underlined the ongoing significance of Peterson's contribution over the last decade.

"Dr. Peterson has been a driving force in shaping the WBA's strategy and advancing the Wi-Fi industry over the past decade. His leadership, vision, and technical expertise have been instrumental in strengthening collaboration across our global ecosystem. We are excited to continue working with him as Chairman to further our vision of enabling seamless, secure, and interoperable Wi-Fi experiences worldwide," said Tiago Rodrigues, President and Chief Executive, WBA