AT&T to Create New Jobs
According to an AT&T press release, the Dallas-based telecom company will create 3,000 new jobs in 2009. AT&T will invest up to $18 billion for the expansion to satisfy the nation’s increasing demand for video, broadband, and wireless services.
Approximately two-thirds of the expenditures will be dedicated to improving AT&T’s wired and wireless broadband networks, providing more speed, capacity, and coverage to its subscribers. This expansion will create approximately 2,000 new positions. In addition, the telecom company will localize approximately 1,000 jobs previously managed by overseas contractors.
According to AT&T Chairman and Chief Executive, Randall Stephenson, year-over-year, data traffic has increased by more than 50% on average. As a result, AT&T will improve its 3G network by adding 20 new markets, and 2,100 new cell sites nationwide.
Among the regions affected, AT&T will add more than 30 new cell sites throughout Oklahoma. The company will also introduce its 3G service in Ada, Enid, Ardmore, and Muskogee.
"Our number one priority in 2009 is to continue to enhance the wireless and wired networks so our customers have a top notch experience every time they make a call, send a text, check an e-mail or watch TV," stated Vice President and General Manager, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets, Arkansas and Oklahoma, Steve Gray.
"Demand for broadband continues to grow as new applications emerge and customers embrace them," stated Stephenson. "We expect demand will only escalate when the larger economy rebounds, and AT&T's continued strong network investment will help ensure that we're fully ready to support the next wave of economic growth."
AT&T’s 2009 plans for capital spending adhere to its aforementioned plan to cut spending by approximately 15%. An $18 billion budget represents a cut of between 11 and 16%.