In conversation with Rogers Quebec’s network expert, Robert Mui
Since 1985, Rogers has been providing residents in Quebec with world-class wireless networks, keeping customers connected to the moments that matter most. That same year, the very first wireless call in Canada was made between Toronto mayor Art Eggleton and Montreal mayor Jean Drapeau over the Cantel network (now Rogers), starting our legacy of connecting Canadians to what’s important.
Fast-forward to 2020, Rogers was the first to bring 5G to Quebec beginning in Montreal and has since expanded 5G to more than 13 cities and towns across the province. Last year, Rogers also started to roll out the country’s first 5G standalone network in Montreal marking a major milestone in evolving 5G connectivity in the region. All of these accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedicated local team of network professionals who work tirelessly to provide the residents and businesses of Quebec with the best in wireless connectivity.
To get a behind-the-scenes take, we sat down with Robert Mui, Rogers Network Lead in Quebec, to learn more about a network built for Quebecers by Quebecers. Here’s what he had to share:
Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Rogers.
I’ve been with Rogers for 30 years now and I’m the Network Lead for Access Networks in Quebec. I am proud to lead the team that develops and maintains the wireless networks in Quebec.
Is your whole team based in Quebec?
Yes, we are a fully Quebec-based team. Our planning, engineering and deployment staff are mostly based in Montreal and we have field technicians working all across the province, from Saguenay to Gatineau and from Rimouski to Sherbrooke.
Do you have a moment you’re most proud of during your time at Rogers?
It has to be seeing and being involved with all of the network evolutions. I’ve been there for the launch of 2G, 3G, 4G, and now 5G. These have been major moments for our company, for our industry, and proud milestones for me to have been able to participate in and contribute to all of those technological transformations.
Out of all these wireless network evolutions you’ve experienced first-hand, what is the biggest change you’ve seen?
Throughout all of the “Gs”, the arrival of the smartphone marked the biggest change for me. That’s when we went from a using a phone as a basic communication device to what I call an “electronic swiss army knife,” this device that is equipped with all the functionalities and apps you need in one place. It’s amazing to see this innovation come to life and made possible because of our network.
What goes into building a 5G network, specifically in this province?
First, it takes an incredible, dedicated and, hardworking team, who can build and enhance and maintain our network even during harsh Quebec winter months. Our network team works locally and understands the specific geography of their area to optimize the network so that it performs the best it possibly can.With 5G, we’re focusing on installing new equipment with Ericsson to deliver this new technology across the province.