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A conversation with Leticia Latino-van Neptuno of CEO of Neptune USA.
In this compelling episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with Letizia Latino, CEO of Neptune USA, to explore the unique challenges of leading in the telecommunications infrastructure industry. From managing the boom-and-bust cycles of wireless construction to championing workforce development through apprenticeships, Letizia shares her unfiltered insights on modern business leadership.
What You’ll Learn:
Industry Challenges & Innovation:
– The “all-you-can-eat buffet or starvation” reality of the telecom industry
– How AI and drone technology are revolutionizing tower inspection and engineering
– Navigating tariff impacts and supply chain complexities in steel manufacturing
– The critical infrastructure behind your cell phone connectivity
Workforce Development & Talent:
– Why apprenticeship programs are the future of skilled labor
– The untapped potential of hiring military veterans in technical roles
– How to retain skilled workers during industry downturns
– Breaking the stigma around trade jobs vs. four-year degrees
Leadership Lessons:
– Overcoming “we’ve always done it this way” resistance to change
– Managing change initiatives effectively through transition periods
– The importance of staying curious and aligned with your values
– Balancing family business legacy with personal identity
Change Management Insights:
– Why most growth initiatives fail (hint: it’s not the strategy)
– The critical role of middle managers in executing change
– Using AI to predict resistance to organizational change
– Communication strategies that actually work
Featured Topics & Keywords:
Telecommunications CEO | Women in Leadership | Wireless Infrastructure | Tower Construction | Change Management | Workforce Development | Apprenticeship Programs | Veterans Employment | AI in Business | Drone Technology | Digital Twin Technology | Supply Chain Management | Tariff Impact | Business Strategy | Family Business | CEO Challenges | Trade Jobs | Skills Gap | Construction Industry | 5G Infrastructure | Telecom Innovation | Leadership Development
Episode Guest
Letizia Latino is the CEO of Neptune USA, a telecommunications infrastructure company specializing in steel tower manufacturing and engineering services. Born in Venezuela to Italian immigrant parents, Letizia brings an international perspective to business leadership. Before joining the family business, she gained experience at Merrill Lynch and Nortel Networks. She’s passionate about workforce development, serves on several FCC committees, and hosts the podcast “Back to Basics: Reconnecting to the Essence of You.”
