Mainely Wired, LLC., is proud to announce a partnership between the University of Maine’s Electrical Engineering department and NASA, which will fund two summer internship positions at the company. Two students from the University of Maine, Orono, will work to gain a fundamental understanding of wireless communication in a local Maine company. Mainely Wired’s use of 900mhz technology to provide high-speed internet access to customers across Maine is a perfect fit for the NASA-sponsored program. NASA’s program seeks to fund research and development in the use of wireless communication technology for its missions.

Brian Tomassetti, a senior Electrical Engineering major from Bangor, ME and Peter DeLong, a junior Physics major from Westbrook, ME will have the opportunity to gain hands on experience installing, operating and designing state-of-the-art wireless technology networks for consumers and businesses throughout Maine. Both students will have the chance to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world situations. In addition to using their technology skills, they will also learn the ins and outs of working in a small Maine business.

Mainely Wired is a Maine owned and operated company devoted to making a difference in Maine. The company works with local and distant residences, towns, businesses, and schools to deliver wireless high-speed internet access and computer consulting services that move Maine forward and level the technology playing field. Current wireless locations include the areas of Mid-Coast, Mid-Maine, Down East, and Chebeague Island – in partnership with chebeague.net.

Professor Ali Abedi, Assistant Professor from the University’s Electrical Engineering program, had this to say about the partnership between UMaine, NASA, and Mainely Wired, “Over the next 3 years, there will be 6 undergraduate students involved in this program. Students will be selected through a competitive process and will work at Mainely Wired. During their training in wireless communications, they will contribute to projects for the state of Maine, as well as a proposed project for NASA developing next generation wireless sensor networks for space vehicles and structures in electromagnetically harsh environments.” Professor Abedi further commented, “Maine’s science and technology priorities, specifically Information Technology and Environmental technology sectors, will be directly impacted by this program. UMaine is pleased to collaborate with local industries and companies like Mainely Wired who help train students and benefit rural communities at the same time.”

Peter Petersen, Owner of Mainely Wired, added his thoughts, “Mainely Wired will do its best to provide all interns with a meaningful learning experience. Since Mainely Wired’s network design, engineering, control, installation and service is done in house by local Maine personnel our interns will gain a comprehensive understanding of wireless network operations from the ground up. Aside from the technical operations they will also have an exposure to the business and financial aspects of the company. This hands-on experience enables our interns to gain a leg up on their peers once they have graduated and are about to enter the job market. Looking into the future we hope to offer employment to this new generation of experienced wireless engineers so that they can pursue a successful, rewarding career while remaining in the state of Maine after their graduation.”