Technology >> CEO Interviews >> June 5, 2000
WALTER V. PURNELL, JR. is President and Chief Executive Officer of
Motient Corporation. Mr. Purnell, Jr. joined Motient Corporation,
formerly American Mobile, in March 1998, as President following the
company's acquisition of ARDIS Company ' the nation's largest wireless
data network operator ' where he was President and Chief Executive
Officer. In January 1999, he assumed additional duties as Chief
Executive Officer. Mr. Purnell joined ARDIS Company as Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer upon its formation in 1990. He was promoted
to Senior Vice President and became President and CEO in 1995. Prior to
joining ARDIS Company, he held a variety of management positions with
IBM for 23 years. He is a founding member of Worldwide Wireless Data
Network Operators Group (WWDNOG), and is currently serving as its
chairperson. WWDNOG is an interactive organization that facilitates
information sharing among members and fosters growth in development and
adoption of cost effective wireless data solutions. In 1998, Purnell was
named 'Mobile Maven by Mobile Insights, a title bestowed upon leaders
who have made significant contributions to the mobile computing
industry. Mr. Purnell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering
and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Syracuse
University. Profile
Then describe what you see as your business and company today.
Mr. Purnell: American Mobile Satellite Corporation was our
