Carl Ford Partner and Community Developer, Crossfire Media Carl has become known throughout the IP Communications community for his ability to connect people (and, thus, businesses); be it in formal conference settings or through the well-planned serendipitous encounter. From 1997 to 2008 Carl focused on the development and cultivation of Pulvermedia’s IP Communications Community. In his role as V.P and Community Developer for Pulvermedia, Carl played a key role in developing all content and securing Industry leading speakers for Pulvermedia’s flagship IP Communications event, VON. Carl’s contribution to the VON program during its 11 year tenure was a major contributor to the success of this long running event, his broad based knowledge of IP Communications along with his witty approach to session moderation, often made for a lively, informative Conference Session, not often found at other events. Prior to Pulvermedia, Ford spent 20+ years at an array of companies that cover both the width and breadth of the industry. Carl gained much of his technology experience at leading companies such as Bellcore (now Telcordia Technologies), Bell Atlantic and Nynex (both now a part of Verizon).      Carl’s diverse experience in technology spans the areas of Costing, Operations, Marketing, Regulatory, and Product Management. While at Nynex, Carl designed and managed the development of a carrier-grade softswitch billing mediation device, compatible with ILEC billing systems. At Pulver.com, Carl moderated the development of the CDR for Internet Telephony, which enables VoIP gateways to be used with carrier billing systems. During his time at Bell Atlantic Carl attended the renowned Quality College, learning to employ many of Philip Crosby’s recommended methods. Carl’s technology experience along with his expertise in building a relevant, thought provoking conference program, makes him an invaluable asset to Crossfire Media. Carl and his wife Bonnie reside in Fair Lawn, New Jersey with their daughters Nicole and Arielle and their steadfast, loyal and true dog Matty.  He also has a daughter, Megan, from his first marriage.  And though it has been some time since he last performed in an organized setting, Carl has been quite careful to maintain his barbershop quartet prowess. carl@crossfiremedia.com